The R-(-)- and S-(+)-isomers of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and its metabolite 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) were prepared, identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and then used as standards in a series of capillary electrophoresis (CE) experiments. Using these R-(-)- and S-(+)-isomers, the distribution of (RS)-MDA and (RS)-MDMA stereoisomers in clandestine tablets and suspect urine samples were identified. Several electrophoretic parameters, such as the concentration of beta-cyclodextrin used in the electrophoretic separation and the amount of organic solvents required for the separation, were optimized.

A comparison of the use of aqueous and nonaqueous buffers in association with beta-CD for the chiral separation of (R)- and (S)-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine and related compounds is described. The (R)- and (S)-isomers of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and its major metabolite 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) were prepared. Under aqueous and nonaqueous buffer conditions and based on the CZE and MEKC modes, the order of migration of (R)-MDA, (S)-MDA, (R)-MDMA, and the (S)-MDMA enantioisomers were determined. Several electrophoretic parameters, including the concentration of beta-CD (aqueous, 25-60 mM; nonaqueous, 20-150 mM) used in the electrophoretic separation and the amount of organic solvents required for the separation, were optimized.