Blotter paper samples seized in Bogotá were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, revealing phenethylamine derivatives from the 2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) series. The prevalent compounds were 2-(4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)) phenethylamine, 2-(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)) phenethylamine, and 2-(4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)) phenethylamine. These derivatives are known powerful hallucinogens not yet under international control.
This review of chemical studies on Salvia divinorum reports that since the 1990s its recreational use has increased due to its hallucinogenic effects and easy access. Its effects are compared to those of delta-9-THC, DMT, LSD, MDMA, PCP, and ketamine. Research has focused on extraction, determination, quantification, analysis, and biosynthesis of salvinorin A, the compound responsible for the plant's bioactivity. Salvinorin A is considered one of the most potent natural hallucinogens and is chemically unique as the first known diterpene with psychoactive activity. Recent studies use gas and liquid chromatography on leaves, blood, urine, and water to detect salvinorin A and other metabolites. One study confirmed by NMR and HR-ESI-MS that salvinorin A biosynthesis proceeds via the mevalonate and methylerythritol phosphate pathways, which are terpene biosynthesis routes.