System and method for broad spectrum drug detection

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Biological fluid test samples are analyzed for a broad spectrum of drugs, including benzodiazepines amphetamines, tricyclic antidepressants and opiates in, a single isocratic analysis using a chromatographic column system containing three analytical columns -- an anion exchange column, a reversed phase column and a cation exchange column. A pre-column is also included to purge the sample of salts, proteins peptides and, hydrophilic anions. Carrier liquids containing acetonitrile at various strengths are used for distribution of the various drugs among the columns elution of the, drugs from the columns and column purging and condition-, ing. The system readily lends itself to automation …