Reversing microcrystalline tests—An analytical approach to recycling of microcrystals from drugs of abuse

A combined analysis of microcrystalline tests followed by LC–MS or GC–MS analysis is described. Microcrystalline tests are shown to be non-destructive as addition products formed were easily dissociated after the application of an appropriate solvent. Subsequent analysis of the sample was done to quantify the recovery of the drug. Examples were performed using the date rape drug γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and the synthetic opioid methadone.