Chemical characterization of counterfeit captagon tablets seized in Jordan

Fenethylline, commonly known by the trademark name 'captagon', is one of the most popular drugs of abuse among the young affluent communities of the Middle East. The Drug Control Department of the Public Security Directorate of Jordan has put captagon under control in the year 1988. Samples from 124 batches seized were analyzed by means of gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The analysis demonstrates the presence of amphetamine, caffeine and several other substances, besides, the absence of fenethylline. Based on GC-MS analytical data, comparisons were made between the various samples to determine the similarities and obtain inferences with respect to commonality of origin.