Development of MDMA analysis method in dried blood spot using gas chromatography mass spectrometry Quadrupole Time-of-Flight

Background: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or ecstasy is a synthetic stimulant of the central nervous system (CNS) that induces hallucinogenic effects, addiction, and drowsiness. To minimise MDMA misuse, accurate testing is needed using the most reliable specimen, which is blood. Objective: This study aims to develop an MDMA analysis method using dried blood spot (DBS) sampling, optimise the analysis conditions, prepare the DBS samples, and validate the analytical process. Method: MDMA was analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Quadrupole Time of-Flight, with ephedrine HCl as an internal standard. DBS preparation involved applying 30 μL of blood, drying for 3 hours, and extracting with methanol, followed by vortexing, sonication, and reconstitution with ethyl acetate. Result: The method validation was performed based on the FDA 2022 M10 Bioanalytical Method Validation and Study Sample Analysis guidelines, showing linearity within the concentration range of 15.00 200 ppb. Conclusion: The optimised method demonstrated reliable results for the analysis of MDMA in DBS samples, offering a simplified, less invasive blood collection technique with high analytical precision.