New biomarker may extend detection window for date-rape drug GHB

AI Summary

Researchers at the University of Zurich are evaluating a urine biomarker that may reveal earlier GHB exposure in forensic cases. It could extend the detection window when conventional tests can no longer detect the drug.

Every hour is critical when it comes to detecting the use of drugs used to render victims unconscious. The substance GHB, which is commonly used in this way, is excreted rapidly from blood and urine. Researchers at the University of Zurich have been evaluating a new biomarker using urine samples from real forensic cases. This biomarker can indicate earlier GHB intake even when the drug is no longer detectable using conventional analysis.