Overview

Crack cocaine is the free base form of cocaine, chemically distinct from the more common cocaine hydrochloride salt . This product is supplied as a high-purity certified reference material for use in forensic and clinical toxicology laboratories. As a Schedule II controlled substance, it serves as an essential analytical standard for the identification and quantification of cocaine base in seized materials and for the analysis of its unique pyrolysis product, anhydroecgonine methyl ester, which serves as a specific marker for smoked cocaine exposure in biological specimens .

Chemical & Physical Properties

The material typically presents as a white to off-white solid. The free base form exhibits limited aqueous solubility but dissolves well in organic solvents suitable for analytical workflows. The compound is produced by treating cocaine hydrochloride with an alkaline solution, converting it to the smokeable base form.

Primary Research Applications

Crack cocaine analytical standards are primarily utilized for the identification and quantification of cocaine base and its unique pyrolysis marker, anhydroecgonine methyl ester, in forensic toxicology. Anhydroecgonine methyl ester is formed during the heating process and serves as a definitive biomarker for distinguishing smoked cocaine (crack) from other routes of administration such as snorting or injection . Applications include method development and validation for LC-MS/MS and GC-MS, as well as confirmatory analysis of biological specimens in clinical toxicology, urine drug testing, and forensic casework. Stable-labeled internal standards such as cocaine-D3 are available for isotope dilution methods to ensure accuracy in quantitative analysis .

Storage & Stability

For optimal stability, the product should be stored frozen in a tightly sealed, desiccated container. Certified reference material solutions in acetonitrile should be handled promptly after opening to maintain accurate concentration. Researchers must adhere to standard safe handling practices for hazardous chemicals and maintain appropriate security for controlled substances.

Closing Statement

This high-purity certified reference material is intended exclusively for in vitro laboratory use in forensic and analytical research. Researchers should consult the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for specific lot data and certified purity values. All handling must be performed within a properly controlled professional laboratory environment, and users must ensure compliance with all local and federal regulations regarding controlled substances.

⚠️ DISCLAIMER:
This product is sold strictly for laboratory and research purposes only. It is NOT intended for human or veterinary consumption, diagnostic use, or any application involving living organisms. All customers must be qualified and trained laboratory professionals. Buyer assumes all responsibility for safe handling, storage, and legal compliance in accordance with their local, state, and federal regulations. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and work within a properly ventilated fume hood.