Psilocin and bufotenine are naturally occurring controlled substances, while two other isomers (6-HO-DMT and 7-HO-DMT) are not classified as controlled substances. The four isomers were synthesized and analyzed using thin layer chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and gas chromatography mass spectroscopy. The methods successfully differentiated all four isomers. Analysis of forensic specimens suspected to be psilocybe mushrooms confirmed that psilocin can be unequivocally identified and its other isomers ruled out, providing accurate identification for forensic investigations.
A substance called bk-2C-B, a cathinone analogue of the psychoactive phenethylamine 2C-B, has become available from online retailers. Its identity was confirmed through multiple analytical methods, including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gas and liquid chromatography, and high-resolution mass spectrometry. The compound was also synthesized using the Delépine reaction. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed potential for artificial formation of byproducts, but these were not seen with liquid chromatography. Analysis revealed the purchased material was a mixture of hydrochloride and hydrobromide salts, suggesting a specific synthetic route, and X-ray crystallography showed it exists as polymorphs.
When the new psychoactive substance bk-2C-B is heated in a simulated meth pipe, it breaks down into at least twelve different products, some of which could be inhaled. A closely related compound, bk-2C-I, produced similar breakdown products, plus two additional ones. The toxicity of these pyrolysis products is unknown, raising concerns about potential harm from smoking or inhaling these substances.