Hair as a Medicolegal Evidence in Detection of Cannabis and Pregabalin residues

Abstract

            Hair samples are one of the most important resources in the forensic analysis of crime scenes, often providing valuable information that can lead to the identification of a suspect or a victim. This study was conducted to HPTLC quantitative evaluation of Cannabis and Pregabalin residues in hair and serum.  Thirty Wistar male rats were grouped into three groups; first group kept as negative control, second group (Cannabis group) administered Cannabis by gastric tube at a dose of 3 mg/kg b.wt.) and third group (Pregabalin group) administered Pregabalin by gastric tube at a dose of 30 mg/kg b.wt. daily for eight weeks. Results revealed that Cannabis and Pregabalin were both deposited in hair and serum compared with control groups. Using of hair samples is strongly recommended as routine test for pregabalin and cannabis abuse beside blood and urine tests.