Development of a Microcrystal Test for the Detection of Clonazepam
THE MICROSCOPE
2015, Volume 63:2, pp. 51–56
DOI
https://doi.org/10.59082/OQDB5730
AUTHOR
Danielle Silletti
ABSTRACT
Microcrystal tests are used as analytical techniques for distinguishing certain drugs in the forensic sciences. While there are some drugs, such as cocaine and heroin, with validated microcrystal tests, other classes of drugs, e.g. the benzodiazepines, lack such microcrystal tests. The goal of this research is to optically characterize and develop a microcrystal test that could be used to detect clonazepam. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine drug that is sold under the trade name Klonopin. It is known for its sedative-hypnotic properties and has therapeutic uses as an anticonvulsant and anxiolytic. Benzodiazepines have been abused for these sedative effects and are known for their use in drug-facilitated sexual assaults. A microcrystal test was developed that is able to detect clonazepam in pharmaceutical preparations at all current dosages. The test involves the dissolution of microgram quantities of clonazepam in acetone or chloroform and the addition of a 10% platinum chloride aqueous solution. The presence of clonazepam is indicated by the formation of rosettes made of colorless, blunt-ended rods. No other drug is known to exhibit the same reaction with these reagents, making this microcrystal test a viable option in forensic analyses.