Additives and Precursors Reference Materials

Additives and precursors are substances added or used in the synthesis of drugs that can have adverse health effects. These can be anything from preservatives or dyes to cutting agents, or diluents to binders and fillers. Common examples include PEG (polyethylene glycol), paracetamol, ibuprofen, caffeine, lidocaine, and levamisole, amongst others.

Toxicological casework includes the study of adulterants in illicit substances that can affect drug potency, toxic effects of pharmaceutical precursors or additives in the case of overdose or poisoning, chemical precursors in cases of deliberate poisoning, or food and environmental contaminants that individuals may be exposed to. This information is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment, as well as for legal investigations into cases of poisoning, drug abuse or exposure to harmful compounds.

Research is also crucial in this area to improve analytical methods, to identify new emerging additives and precursors, and to keep up with trends in illicit drug adulteration as well as the health effects these compounds have.

Our broad range of high-quality additive and precursor reference materials and research chemicals below is designed to support both analytical and research studies.