Forensic toxicology is the analysis of suspected samples for the presence of toxins, including drugs. It integrates toxicological principles with expertise in analytical chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical chemistry to assist legal investigations concerning death, poisoning, and drug use.
The primary types of substances analyzed include:
- Alcohol
- Illegal drugs
- Prescription medications
- Poisons
- Metals
- Gases (e.g., carbon monoxide)