Quantitative GHB determination from whole blood, vitreous fluid, or urine by LC-MS/MS for forensic applications.
1 analyte
3–5 working days
This method provides quantitative determination of γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) for forensic and medico-legal applications, supporting investigations by justice and law enforcement agencies.
Clinical indications include:
γ-Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB). Also available from vitreous fluid (aqueous humour) for post-mortem cases where blood may be unreliable.
GHB is quantified by validated forensic LC-MS/MS method with isotope-dilution internal standardisation. The method accounts for endogenous GHB production and post-mortem formation artefacts.
From enquiry to results — a straightforward process.
This test is available to healthcare professionals, wellness brands, clinics, and research institutions worldwide. We currently serve partners in:
Whether you need testing services for your patients, white-label kits for your brand, or method transfer to your own laboratory — get in touch to discuss how we can work together.
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) is produced endogenously by the body at low concentrations and can also form post-mortem through bacterial action on its precursor GBL and related compounds. Our validated LC-MS/MS method accounts for these factors, using established cut-off values and specimen-specific interpretation to distinguish between endogenous levels and exogenous administration.
Whole blood, vitreous humour (eye fluid), and urine can all be tested. Vitreous fluid is particularly valuable in post-mortem cases as it is less susceptible to bacterial GHB formation than blood, providing a more reliable indication of ante-mortem GHB levels. Multiple specimen types can be analysed in combination for stronger forensic conclusions.
Samples are collected by forensic officers or pathologists following appropriate chain-of-custody and preservation protocols. Blood specimens require sodium fluoride preservation to inhibit bacterial GHB production. Prompt sample collection and proper storage are critical for reliable results.
Results are typically delivered within 3 to 5 working days from the time your sample arrives at our laboratory. The analysis is performed by LC-MS/MS with validated forensic methodology and documented measurement uncertainty.
Normal endogenous GHB levels in living individuals are typically below 4–10 mg/L in blood. Levels significantly above this threshold, combined with clinical context and timing of sample collection, suggest exogenous administration. Post-mortem interpretation requires specialist expertise as bacterial production can elevate levels substantially, which is why vitreous fluid analysis is recommended alongside blood testing.
Masdiag's GHB forensic test is available to forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare professionals in Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Contact us to discuss testing services or method transfer.
Whether you need testing services, method transfer, or white-label kit development — we'd love to hear from you.