LC-LTQ-Orbitrap MS was used for analysis of illicit drugs in The Netherlands and Europe. Studies involved determination of 30 illicit drugs and relevant metabolites in a survey of surface waters and drinking water, collection of urban wastewaters from 5 STPs in the Netherlands during one whole week, and a European study of STP influents from 19 European cities sampled during one whole week. 24 out of 30 compounds determined were detected in wastewater effluents, and 12 in surface waters. Relatively high concentrations were observed for cocaine, benzoylecgonine, codeine, oxazepam, amphetamine and THC-COOH. In general, concentrations of drugs of abuse in effluents were lower than those of influents. Concentrations in influents were used to back calculate consumption of drugs of abuse in the general population. Increased consumption of several illicit drugs during weekends was observed. Drug concentrations in Dutch sewage waters are rather similar to those found elsewhere in Europe.

Illicit drugs in surface waters, drinking water and urban wastewaters

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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