Drug characterization/impurity profiling, with special focus on methamphetamine: recent work of the United Nations International Drug Control Programme

In view of the increase in the manufacture of, trafficking in and abuse of synthetic drugs around the world, as well as the increasing involvement of organized criminal groups, there is an urgent need to identify the extent of such activity, the supply sources, the trafficking routes and the distribution patterns. Drug characterization/ impurity profiling are scientific tools used to support regular operational and intelligence work in this area by law enforcement authorities. Impurity profiling, the analysis of the various impurities in clandestinely manufactured drugs, by type and quantity, is not a routine technique. In order to provide more information on a seized drug sample than that obtained by using normal chemical analysis, and to identify any links between two samples of seized drugs, experienced chemists and dedicated equipment are required. In addition, close cooperation between forensic laboratories and law enforcement authorities is essential if all relevant information on links is to be followed up effectively. The present paper provides a brief introduction to drug characterization/and impurity profiling, focusing on activities and findings of the methamphetamine impurity profiling programme currently being carried out by the Scientific Section of the United Nations International Drug Control Programme. *