Raman and SERS identification of a combination prescribed opioid

Significance of the Topic

Handheld Raman spectroscopy enables rapid, non-invasive material identification at the point of need, supporting forensic, pharmaceutical and quality control operations. When combined with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), this approach also detects trace components, extending the capability of portable analysis to complex samples containing low-level active substances.

Objectives and Study Overview

The objective is to demonstrate that the Metrohm MIRA DS handheld Raman analyzer can identify both major and minor active ingredients in a single tablet of Norco, a prescription medication containing 325 mg acetaminophen and 5 mg hydrocodone. The study showcases how conventional Raman and SERS measurements provide complementary information to confirm compound identity with high confidence.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

• Instrument Platform: MIRA DS Advanced handheld Raman spectrometer with Orbital-Raster-Scan technology and illicit materials library.
• Raman Sampling: Long Working Distance Smart Tip (8 mm focal length) for through-coating bulk analysis; automated acquisition and library matching via Smart Acquire routines yielded a Hit Quality Index of 0.96 for acetaminophen.
• SERS Sampling: Norco tablet crushed and dissolved in methanol (1 mg/mL); mixture combined with 50 mmol/L NaCl and gold colloid from the ID Kit – Au NP; analysis performed with Vial Holder Smart Tip to detect hydrocodone traces.

Main Results and Discussion

The bulk analysis unambiguously identified acetaminophen as the primary component via Raman spectroscopy with high spectral correlation. Trace hydrocodone was detected and confirmed by overlaying the SERS spectrum of the sample with a hydrocodone reference, demonstrating clear peak agreement. This dual-mode analysis illustrates the MIRA DS capability to perform non-contact bulk identification alongside sensitive trace detection in a single, field-deployable instrument.

Practical Benefits and Applications

• Rapid, non-destructive screening of pharmaceuticals and illicit substances on site, reducing the need for laboratory analysis.
• Enhanced safety through non-contact through-container measurements, critical when handling potent or hazardous compounds.
• Single-tool solution for both bulk and trace analysis simplifies workflows for law enforcement, forensic investigators and pharmaceutical quality control teams.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

• Integration with cloud-based spectral databases and machine learning algorithms for improved identification accuracy and automated alerts.
• Expanded use in mobile laboratories and remote environments for public health surveillance and emergency response.
• Development of new SERS substrates and protocols to increase sensitivity and broaden the range of detectable trace analytes.

Conclusion

The combined Raman and SERS capabilities of the MIRA DS handheld analyzer provide a versatile and accurate approach for identifying multiple active ingredients in a single dosage form. This dual analysis enhances field-based screening of prescription and illicit substances, supporting efforts to combat drug abuse and ensure public safety.