DIAGNOSIS OF A CASE OF ACUTE CHLOROQUINE POISONING USING H-1-NMR SPECTROSCOPY - CHARACTERIZATION OF DRUG METABOLITES IN URINE

Analysis of biological fluids by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spe ctroscopy (H-1 NMR) is a promising tool in clinical biology, We have u sed this method for a rapid toxicological screening in the case of a s uicide attempt. A urine sample was analysed at 300 and 600 MHz by 1D a nd 2D sequences (J-resolved and TOCSY) in a short experimental time, Q uantification was realized by peak integration of the 1D spectrum, The results showed the presence of chloroquine and its major metabolite m onodesethylchloroquine at concentrations of 462 and 140 mg/ L, respect ively, Ethanol was also detected in the spectrum, It can be concluded that H-1 NMR provides many advantages as a tool for clinical diagnosis in a case of acute intoxication. (C) 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.