The polymorphism of heroin and its forensic aspects
Borka, L.
Acta Pharmaceutica Suecica 14(2): 210-212
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-6675 PMID: 906838 Document Number: 122965
Morphine (base) is known to exist in 2 polymorphic modifications. Among several identification methods the simple acylation may be used, yielding heroin base (3,6-diacetylmorphine) with its sharp melting point 173.degree. C. Since heroin is structurally very similar to morphine, it was examined for the existence of polymorphism. A slightly lower melting modification was discovered with an IR spectrum, diverging from that of the stable modification. This polymorphism may interest forensic laboratories, since melting point depression and irregular IR spectra usually characterize impure samples. It is demonstrated that these irregularities do not necessarily indicate impure heroin but may be explained by polymorphism, a possibility which law enforcement authorities may have to consider in connection with samples taken from lots seized in the illicit heroin traffic from drug abusers.