Drugs

A significant proportion of forensic investigations in the laboratory involve the analysis of controlled drugs.

Suspected controlled drugs are analysed to identify and quantify them for Police and Customs authorities. Cannabis remains the most commonly encountered drug but heroin seizures are now a very significant part of this work. Also seen are methylenedioxymethylamphetamine (MDMA) and similar compounds more commonly known as "Ecstasy" along with amphetamines, LSD, cocaine and abused pharmaceuticals and other chemicals such as GHB. The results of these analyses are presented to the Courts.

An "Ecstasy" tablet