Multi-residue screening of a minimum package of anabolic steroids in urine with GC–MS

The method comprises the screening of two groups of anabolic compounds, the stilbenes and several steroids. All compounds, inclusive their metabolites when possible, for which gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) currently is the preferred analytical technique, are included. Two different derivatives are prepared. One group, including the stilbenes, is detected as HFB derivative (Method 1), the second group is detected as TMS derivative (Method 2). The method is used to perform a qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of a minimum package of anabolic steroids to be included in National Residue Control Plans based on Council Directive 96/23 and complies with the current Minimum Required Performance Limits. The method has been validated according to Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. The CCα and CCβ values are based on the detection of the most abundant ion. Results of validation experiments are presented.The method is flexible and due to the non-specific sample clean-up more and new anabolic compounds can be easily added in order to new monitoring requirements.