Swiss researchers say they have developed a new biomarker that can detect GHB in urine for longer than conventional forensic tests, potentially helping investigations in suspected drug-facilitated sexual assault cases. Reports describe GHB as a widely known “date-rape” drug, with the goal of extending the period during which traces can be identified.
The University of Zurich is cited as the source of the work, with coverage focusing on early detection and the time-sensitive nature of collecting samples. Medical Xpress adds that researchers are evaluating the biomarker using urine samples drawn from real forensic cases and that it can indicate earlier GHB intake even when routine analysis can no longer detect the drug.
Across the outlets, the central points are consistent: a new urine-based detection approach for GHB and an extended detection window. RTE News specifies a duration of up to 72 hours after ingestion, while other reports emphasize the ability to detect earlier intake rather than only a set timeframe.
