CFPN Toxicology and Pharmacology in Forensic Cases

Question 1

Which analytical method is considered the gold standard for confirming positive drug screening results in forensic toxicology?

Accepted Answer

Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS)

Answer

Immunoassay

Answer

Thin-layer chromatography

Answer

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) alone

Question 2

A drug that has a half-life of 4 hours will be reduced to approximately what percentage of its original concentration after 12 hours?

Accepted Answer

12.5%

Answer

25%

Answer

50%

Answer

75%

Question 3

Which specimen provides the longest detection window for most drugs of abuse in forensic testing?

Accepted Answer

Hair

Answer

Urine

Answer

Blood

Answer

Saliva

Question 4

Benzodiazepines are typically detectable in urine for how long after therapeutic use?

Accepted Answer

3–7 days for short-acting; up to 6 weeks for long-acting

Answer

12–24 hours for all types

Answer

1–3 days for all types

Answer

1–3 months for all types

Question 5

What is the primary metabolite of cocaine that is detected in forensic urine drug screens?

Accepted Answer

Benzoylecgonine

Answer

Ecgonine methyl ester

Answer

Norcocaine

Answer

Cocaethylene

Question 6

Which factor can cause a false-positive result for amphetamines on an immunoassay drug screen?

Accepted Answer

Use of pseudoephedrine-containing cold medications

Answer

Caffeine consumption

Answer

High vitamin C intake

Answer

Ibuprofen use