Saliva test for 'date-rape' drug GHB

GHB is used recreationally, as well as being associated with ‘date-rape’ due to its highly intoxicating effects. But while other date-rape drugs such as Rohypnol stay in the system for up to 72 hours, GHB typically leaves the body within 12 hours. As a result, the ability to test for its presence almost instantly could be an important breakthrough.

"Many people attending accident and emergency departments have some kind of alcohol-related issue, particularly at the weekends," explained Paul Thomas, professor of analytical science at Loughborough University and one of the research leads.

"We're aiming to develop a test that is as simple as taking temperature with a thermometer that detects when patients are more than just drunk."

The test, described in the Journal of Breath Research, detects the presence of methanol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, propan 1,3 glycol and γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB). These chemicals were added to 'fresh' saliva collected from three non-intoxicated volunteers. Using gas chromatography-differential mobility spectrometry, compounds of the chemicals were readily identified.