D/L Methamphetamine Isomers Explained

Methamphetamine exists as two isomers. One isomer called Dextro, or D-methamphetamine, is active as a central nervous system stimulant and is a DEA Schedule 2 controlled drug. It is commonly called “Meth” or “Speed”. Desoxyn, a prescription drug contains D-methamphetamine as the active ingredient. Benzphetamine is an example of a drug that metabolizes to methamphetamine.

The other isomer, Levo, or L-methamphetamine is the active ingredient in some over-the-counter medications. Selegiline, an antiparkinson’s drug, metabolizes to L-methamphetamine. L-methamphetamine may also be produced in poorly manufactured Methamphetamine. Federal drug testing policies have determined that specimens containing 20% or more D-Methamphetamine are consistent with exposure to illicit or prescription D-methamphetamine.

Standard GCMS confirmations do not distinguish between these two forms of methamphetamine so we offer a D/L methamphetamine isomer test that provides specific information regarding the percentage of D-Methamphetamine and L-methamphetamine in the specimen by separating and measuring both the D and L versions of methamphetamine.

This is helpful when you need to have a better understanding of whether a donor was using licit or illicit methamphetamine.