The Tox Lab
The Tox Lab is a podcast focused on the science of toxicology and its practical applications. Each episode breaks down complex research, analyzes real-world cases, and explores new developments in the field. The show presents scientific topics in an accessible way while maintaining a professional, opinion-based perspective.
Episodes
Episode 96: Cyanobacteria, Anatoxin and the Hidden Risks of River Biofilms
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of cyanobacteria, exploring the toxins they can produce and the risks they pose to animals and the wider environment.We clear up the naming myth behind “blue-green algae”, look at the different cyanotoxins and discuss why dogs can be particularly vulnerable to poisoning.We then explore a case involving three dogs affected by cyanobacterial pois
Episode 95: TIAFT-SOFT 2026 - Our Toxicology Conference Highlights
We're back! This week on The Tox Lab, we're reflecting on our recent trip to Chicago for the joint TIAFT-SOFT 2026 meeting. We talk about what we got up to during the conference, some of the recurring scientific themes we noticed across the programme, and the toxicology topics that caught our attention. We also share some of our favourite moments from the meeting, from presentations and discussion
Episode 94: Kanna Alkaloids - Pharmacology, Toxicity and Therapeutic Potential
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of Kanna alkaloids.We begin by exploring Kanna, its traditional use in southern Africa, and the growing interest in its potential effects on anxiety and depression. We take a closer look at the alkaloids found within Kanna, including mesembrine, and consider the pharmacology behind some of its reported effects.We then turn to the potential harm
Episode 93: Psychedelic Therapy: Psilocybin, Depression and the Evidence
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of psychedelic therapies and exploring the use of psilocybin to treat depression.We begin with a recent trial investigating whether psilocybin-assisted therapy could actually be delivered within an NHS setting. We explore the practical challenges of delivering psychedelic therapy, the results of the trial, and what the findings might mean for t
Episode 92: Mad Honey - Grayanotoxins and Cardiovascular Effects
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of mad honey and grayanotoxin poisoning.We examine where mad honey comes from and its cultural uses before turning to the compounds responsible for its toxic effects: grayanotoxins. We discuss how these compounds affect voltage-gated sodium channels and how this can lead to severe bradycardia, hypotension, cardiac conduction abnormalities, dizz
Episode 91: Toxicology Results - What Does the Number Actually Mean?
This week on The Tox Lab, we're taking a closer look at one of the most challenging parts of toxicology: interpreting the results.If we give you a number, can you tell us what it means?We begin by exploring why interpreting a toxicology result is rarely as simple as comparing a concentration with a reference value. We discuss the range of clinical, analytical, pharmacological, and contextual infor
Episode 90: Fentanyl: Toxicity, Testing and Interpretation
This week on The Tox Lab, we're taking a closer look at fentanyl, exploring its clinical use, toxicological risks, and the analytical challenges associated with detecting and interpreting fentanyl exposure.We begin by examining fentanyl patch-related deaths reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including cases highlighted through Prevention of Future Deaths reports. We discuss how fenta
Episode 89: Absinthe: Thujone, Toxicity and the Myths of the Green Fairy
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of absinthe, the infamous "Green Fairy".We begin by exploring what absinthe actually is, from its botanical origins and traditional preparation to its rise in popularity and the myths that eventually surrounded it. We discuss why absinthe became associated with hallucinations, madness, and toxicity, and how these stories contributed to its cont
Episode 88: Decongestants - When Nasal Sprays and Eye Drops Become Toxic
This week on The Tox Lab, we're taking a look at the dark side of decongestants and exploring how seemingly harmless over-the-counter nasal sprays and eye drops can cause severe toxicity.We begin by discussing the pharmacology of imidazoline decongestants, including their effects on alpha-adrenergic receptors and how systemic exposure can lead to cardiovascular and central nervous system toxicity.
Episode 87: Wastewater Analysis: Can Sewage Detect Emerging Drug Trends?
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into wastewater-based epidemiology and exploring how wastewater analysis can be used to monitor drug use and emerging drug trends.We begin by discussing the UK national wastewater analysis programme and examining what wastewater data revealed about the use of commonly encountered recreational drugs in 2022. We explore what these measurements can tell us about
Episode 86: Silver Toxicity: Medical Uses, Argyria and Anaemia
This week on The Tox Lab, we're discussing silver toxicity and the toxicological consequences of using silver outside its established medical applications.We begin by exploring the legitimate uses of silver in medicine, including wound dressings, topical preparations, and antimicrobial coatings on medical devices. We then turn to the claims surrounding colloidal silver, including its promotion as
Episode 85: Benzodiazepines and Alcohol: Does Cross-Tolerance Work Both Ways?
This week on The Tox Lab, we're discussing cross-tolerance, focusing on the relationship between benzodiazepines and alcohol.We begin by exploring how alcohol acts at the GABA-A receptor, the neuroadaptations that occur with chronic alcohol use, and why the sudden cessation of alcohol can lead to withdrawal. We then discuss why benzodiazepines are the mainstay of treatment for alcohol withdraw
Episode 84: MDMA: Why Does Toxicity Differ Between People?
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing MDMA, examining its pharmacology, toxicity, and the factors that influence individual susceptibility to harm.We begin by exploring how MDMA works, focusing on its effects on serotonin release, reuptake, and signalling, and the pharmacological mechanisms responsible for its desired effects and adverse reactions.We then examine a case of severe MDMA toxicit
Episode 83: Grey Market Peptides – BPC-157, Melanotan II and Toxicity
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing grey market peptides and examining the growing interest in these compounds for performance enhancement, recovery, and cosmetic purposes.We begin by exploring peptides linked to musculoskeletal healing, focusing on BPC-157 and the evidence surrounding its proposed effects. We discuss the claims made about these compounds, the current state of the research,
EUDA 2026 Drug Report Livestream
Bonus Episode: EUDA European Drug Report 2026 LivestreamThis is the recording of our YouTube livestream from the 9th June, where we unpacked the 2026 EUDA Drug Report.Join us as we explore some of the key findings from the report, discuss emerging drug trends across Europe, share our insights, and answer your questions.We hope you enjoy!Link to the 2026 EUDA Drug Report: https://www.euda.europa.eu
Episode 82: Gabapentin and Pregabalin – Effectiveness, Trends and Toxicity
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing gabapentinoids and examining the use, effectiveness, and toxicological considerations surrounding gabapentin and pregabalin.Originally developed as anti-epileptic medications, gabapentinoids have become widely used for the treatment of neuropathic pain and a range of other conditions. We begin by examining prescribing trends and discussing the evidence su
Episode 81: Alexander Shulgin – The Man Who Shaped Modern Psychedelics
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing the life and work of one of the most influential figures in psychedelic chemistry, Alexander “Sasha” Shulgin.From his early career at Dow Chemical to his pioneering work with psychoactive compounds, Shulgin’s career helped shape the modern landscape of psychedelic research.We discuss his fascination with psychedelics, his meticulous approach to self-exper
Episode 80: Novel Benzodiazepines – Emerging Trends and Analytical Challenges
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing novel benzodiazepines and examining recent trends in their emergence and detection.We begin by exploring the origins of novel benzodiazepines, including how these compounds have entered the drug market and the factors contributing to their continued appearance.We then turn to a paper from the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT) Novel Psychoactive Sub
Episode 79: Kava – Tradition, Benefits and Toxicity
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing kava and examining its history, use, and potential toxicological effects.We begin by exploring the history of kava and its longstanding cultural and social significance, before discussing reported benefits associated with its use and the reasons it continues to gain popularity.We then turn to potential harms associated with kava, examining cases of acute
Episode 78: Strange Things in Strange Places – Poison Dart Frogs, Navalny and Epibatidine
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing poison dart frogs and the alkaloid epibatidine.We begin by examining recent reports surrounding the death of Alexei Navalny and the suggestion that epibatidine may have been involved.We then discuss poison dart frogs and the toxins found within them, including the discovery and isolation of epibatidine. From there, we explore its potent analgesic properti
Episode 77: Novel Synthetic Opioids – An Update on Emerging Trends
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re back with a long-awaited update on novel synthetic opioids.We begin by discussing the April 2026 UNODC announcement on the increasingly varied forms in which synthetic opioids are being encountered, including vapes, powders, and counterfeit tablets marketed as benzodiazepines, oxycodone, and MDMA.We then turn to the emergence of orphine analogues in both the UK and
Episode 76: Naloxone - Access, Harm Reduction and Disparities
This week on The Tox Lab, we are taking a look at the role of naloxone in risk taking behaviours, harm reduction and disparities surrounding naloxone access. We begin by discussing a study looking at the expansion of naloxone access laws in the United States, exploring whether increased availability is associated with changes in heroin use among adolescents.We then turn to a commentary paper exami
Episode 75: Kratom Is Changing - New Semi-Synthetic Compounds & Rising Harm
A year after we first took a look at mitragynine (kratom), we are back with an update episode looking at how the landscape surrounding mitragynine is evolving.We begin by examining poison centre data, exploring trends in reported exposures in the US and internationally, and the increase in its use.We then discuss a case involving semi-synthetic mitragynine derivatives, including 7-hydroxymitragyni
Episode 74: Codeine – Pharmacogenetics, Breastfeeding and the 2006 Lancet Case
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re examining the controversial 2006 Lancet paper on codeine and fatal opioid toxicity in a breastfed infant.We begin by introducing the paper and the case at its centre, in which an infant developed fatal opioid toxicity following exposure to codeine via breast milk.We then explore the proposed mechanism, focusing on the role of CYP2D6 metabolism and how variability in
Episode 73: Pesticides – Flowers, Food and Forensics
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re examining pesticides and their role in toxicology.We begin by discussing a study investigating pesticide exposure in florists, highlighting occupational risks and the potential for chronic low-level exposure.We then turn to a paper analysing pesticide residue levels in commonly consumed fruits, including kiwifruit and bananas, and consider what this may mean for die
Episode 72: GHB – Forensic Toxicology, Detection and Interpretation (Part 2)
This week on The Tox Lab, we continue our discussion on GHB, focusing on its role in forensic toxicology.We begin by examining a study investigating GHB in drug‑facilitated crime in Paris, highlighting patterns of reported incidents and toxicological findings.We then turn to post‑mortem toxicology, discussing the challenges of interpreting GHB concentrations after death and exploring research aime
Episode 71: GHB – Patterns of Use, Harms and User Experience (Part 1)
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re examining GHB, its use, and the harms associated with it.We begin by exploring what GHB is and how it works, before turning to a study from Australia examining trends in use over a 10-year period and the associated increase in harms.We then discuss a qualitative study focusing on GHB use among individuals identifying as heterosexual, exploring patterns of use, motiv
Episode 70: Poison Centre Data – Insights into Drug Trends and Toxicology Surveillance
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at poison centre data and how it can be used to identify drug trends and support toxicovigilance efforts.We begin by discussing a study analysing data from six European poison centres in the Netherlands, Freiburg, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK. The paper examines reports involving the eleven most commonly encountered recreational drugs
Episode 69: Alcohol – Fatal Complications of Chronic Misuse
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at one of the world’s oldest drugs, alcohol, and some of the fatal complications associated with chronic misuse.We discuss several cases that highlight the complex and sometimes unexpected consequences of long-term alcohol use, including hypokalaemic rhabdomyolysis, sudden unexpected death in individuals with alcohol misuse, and a fatal case of
Episode 68: Dopamine Agonists – Impulse Control Disorders and Gambling in Parkinson’s Therapy
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re exploring dopamine agonists and their role in the development of impulse-related conditions such as gambling disorder, hypersexuality, and hobbyism.We cover a couple of case studies where dopamine agonists have led to these behavioural changes before discussing a review paper that examines the role of these medications in the development of addiction and gambling di
Episode 67: Tetrodotoxin Toxicity – From Pufferfish to Forensic Casework
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing tetrodotoxin, the potent neurotoxin most commonly associated with pufferfish.We cover a clinical case of tetrodotoxin poisoning following ingestion of pufferfish stew, which initially followed the expected progression of symptoms before the emergence of unusual neurological features. We then turn to alternative sources of tetrodotoxin, including its prese
Episode 66: CBD and Sleep – Clinical Evidence and Emerging Mechanisms
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at CBD and its effects on sleep.CBD is widely marketed for insomnia and sleep disturbance, but what does the evidence actually show? In this episode, we begin by examining survey data demonstrating that some individuals report improvements in sleep with CBD use.We then unpack the pharmacology, focusing on CBD’s inhibition of adenosine uptake and
Episode 65: Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Psychoactive Drug Interactions
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at monoamine oxidase inhibitors and their interactions with other substances.We begin by revisiting how MAOIs work and why inhibition of monoamine oxidase can create significant risks when combined with other drugs. Using a recent review paper as our guide, we explore reported interactions between MAOIs and commonly used psychoactive substances,
Episode 64: Are Nitazenes Being Missed? Stability in Post-Mortem Toxicology
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re exploring the stability of nitazenes in post-mortem samples and what this means for toxicological interpretation.We discuss a recent study we have been involved in, from the unusual toxicology findings that first raised questions through to controlled stability experiments in animal models. We also examine data from the National Programme on Substance Use Mortality
Episode 63: Bupropion Toxicity – Mechanisms of Cardiac Conduction Abnormalities
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at bupropion and its distinctive toxicity profile in overdose.We explore a case of bupropion overdose to examine the often complex clinical presentation, including seizures and cardiovascular complications, as well as the challenges of management and potential longer-term consequences. We then unpack the mechanism underlying bupropion-associated
Episode 62: Methaqualone (Quaaludes) – From 1970s Sedative to Modern Analogues
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at quaaludes and their modern analogues.Once synonymous with a particular era of drug use, quaaludes have largely disappeared from the illicit market. But have they really gone away? We explore the history of methaqualone, how and why it fell out of use, and what has appeared in its place.We then dive into a review examining a wide range of meth
Episode 61: Naloxone in the Age of Nitazenes and Ultra-Potent Synthetic Opioids
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re exploring naloxone and its effectiveness in the context of novel synthetic opioid overdoses.Naloxone remains a cornerstone of opioid overdose management, but the emergence of highly potent synthetic opioids has raised important questions about whether standard approaches are still sufficient. We discuss clinical nitazene exposure data from Australia, examining the c
Episode 60: Detecting Harm Early - Drug Early Warning Systems Explained
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re exploring early warning systems and their growing role in toxicology and public health.We break down the core principles that underpin early warning systems, before focusing on how these frameworks are applied to drug early warning systems aimed at identifying emerging substances and harms. We then discuss a recent paper examining the value of incorporating experien
Episode 59: When Is Toxicology Biochemistry? Exploring Drugs That Alter Glucose Metabolism
Welcome back to The Tox Lab! We are kicking off 2026 by exploring drugs that disrupt metabolism and the consequences that can follow.In this episode, we focus on compounds that alter glucose metabolism and the interplay between toxicology and biochemistry. We discuss a fatal case of metformin toxicity and the analytical and interpretive challenges involved in recognising this diagnosis.We then tur
Episode 58: Marzipan, Almonds and Cyanide — A Toxicology Christmas Special
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re closing out the year with a festive twist as we explore the link between marzipan, bitter almonds, and cyanide.We take a closer look at the chemistry linking cyanide to almonds and discuss a case of intentional bitter almond ingestion. We then turn to National Poisons Information Service data to examine patterns of cyanide exposure, clinical outcomes, and the antido
Episode 57: SSRIs and Seizure Risk - Rethinking Serotonin in Epilepsy
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at serotonin and its intriguing role in both depression and epilepsy.We review recent data examining the seizure risk associated with different classes of antidepressants and what this means for clinical decision making. We then explore a case report in which sertraline, an SSRI, appeared to have an anti-seizure effect, challenging some long-hel
Episode 56: Cannabis and Heart Health — Unpacking the Evidence Behind Cardiovascular Risk
This week on The Tox Lab, we are examining the growing evidence around cannabis and cardiovascular risk.We start with a recent systematic review and meta-analysis that explores whether cannabis use is linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease. We break down the strength of the data and discuss what the current evidence can and cannot tell us.We then move onto research investigating how THC
Episode 55: Space Oil – Etomidate in the Drug Supply and Its Toxicological Risks
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re diving into the emerging world of “space oil”, the anesthetic drug etomidate, which has begun appearing in the recreational drug supply across parts of Asia and beyond.We explore several cases involving etomidate vaping, where repeated exposure led to adrenal insufficiency due to its potent inhibition of 11β-hydroxylase. We also discuss a fatal ingestion case, highl
Episode 54: From Nits to Novichok — A Deep Dive into Organophosphates
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at organophosphates, a diverse group of compounds used everywhere from agriculture to chemical warfare.We walk through two real-world poisoning cases: an accidental exposure from a head lice treatment and an intentional ingestion of phorate, illustrating just how wide the spectrum of organophosphate toxicity can be. Along the way, we break down
Episode 53: From Cosmetics to Creatures – A Mix of Unusual Poisonings
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re exploring a series of fascinating and unusual poisoning cases, each with its own toxic twist.From hair straightening treatments and bearded fireworms to midodrine, isotocyanozene, and sodium azide, we discuss the mechanisms, clinical presentations, and toxicological challenges behind each case.Join us as we unpack what these cases reveal about the diverse and someti
Episode 52: Errors in Toxicology – When Science Gets It Wrong
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re turning our attention inward to errors in toxicology.From calibration and maintenance mistakes to reporting issues and even instances of fraud, we unpack how things can go wrong in the analytical process and what that means for the credibility of our field.We explore the real-world consequences of these errors and most importantly, what we can learn from them to str
Episode 51: Brorphine – Could Orphines Be the Next Nitazenes?
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing brorphine — a novel synthetic opioid that briefly appeared on the drug market around 2020.We explore its emergence and pharmacology, including data on its activity at the µ-opioid receptor. We also discuss one of the few documented case studies describing an individual presenting for detoxification following brorphine use. Finally, we review recent resear
Episode 50: One Year of The Tox Lab – Reflections, Updates, and What’s Next
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re celebrating our 50th episode — and one whole year of toxicology talk! 🎉Join us as we look back on some of our most memorable moments from the past year, revisit a few topics with new updates, and share what’s next for The Tox Lab.Whether you’ve been here since episode one or you’re just joining us, thank you for being part of our growing community of toxicologists,
Episode 49: Arsenic – A Victorian Poison in the Modern World
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re revisiting one of history’s most infamous poisons — arsenic.Once dubbed the king of poisons, arsenic still poses real risks today. We discuss recent research on arsenic in the water supply and how prenatal exposure may influence birth outcomes in the United States. We also review two unusual cases of intentional elemental arsenic ingestion, exploring the unexpected
Episode 48: Mushroom Toxicology – Trends, Toxins, and Mislabelled Products
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re embracing autumn and diving into the fascinating, and sometimes dangerous, world of mushrooms.We explore ten years of mushroom exposure data reported to the UK National Poisons Information Service, examining the species most often involved and the mechanisms behind their toxicity. We also take a look at commercial products containing mushrooms and discuss a paper sh
Episode 47: Clozapine – Unpacking the Complexities of a Unique Antipsychotic
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at clozapine, a highly effective antipsychotic with a complex toxicological profile.We review a study from Western Sydney examining cases of self-poisoning and adverse drug reactions, discuss a case of chronic clozapine toxicity, and explore new research into its effects on cardiac mitochondria.From clinical outcomes to cellular mechanisms, we u
Episode 46: The Kappa Hypothesis - Medetomidine, Dysphoria, and Hallucinations
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re discussing medetomidine and its unexpected association with hallucinations.We review a recent paper highlighting its emergence in the drug supply and the apparent increase in hallucinatory effects reported with its use. Although medetomidine has been linked to reducing post-operative delirium, we also discuss a case report of dexmedetomidine-induced delirium in a pa
Episode 45: Diarylethylamines – The Rise, Risks, and Disappearance of Ketamine Substitutes
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at diphenidine and other diarylethylamines — a class of drugs that briefly emerged as alternatives to ketamine.We explore their history, reported effects, and the fatalities linked to their use before they faded from the drug scene. With current discussions around reclassifying ketamine, we ask: could diphenidine — or similar substances — make a
Episode 44: Ozempic and GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs – Benefits, Overdose, and Counterfeits
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re diving into the world of GLP-1 receptor agonists, including the well-known weight loss drug Ozempic.We explore how these drugs work and their potential benefits beyond weight loss, including effects on heart health. We then discuss a case of intentional Ozempic overdose, examining the clinical presentation and outcomes.Finally, we turn to the growing problem of coun
Episode 43: Toxicology Mysteries – A Series of Poisoning Cases
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re shaking things up with a case-based mystery episode.We walk through four real-life poisoning cases, starting with how each patient presented and progressed, before revealing the substance behind the toxic effects. Can you solve the puzzle before we uncover the cause?If you like this style of episode, let us know in the comments below! Hope you enjoy!⚠️ Spoiler alert
Episode 42: 2C-B vs Tucibi (Pink Cocaine) – What’s the Difference?
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re talking about 2C-B and “Tusi” — two drugs often confused, but very different in composition and effects.We explore Dutch Poison Information Centre data on 2C-B, examining reported exposures and the spectrum of effects across low, moderate, and high doses. We then turn to casework from the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner Toxicology Laboratory to look at “Tusi” (also know
Episode 41: Can One Dose Cure Addiction? The Promise and Peril of Ibogaine
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at ibogaine — a plant-derived alkaloid attracting interest as a potential treatment for addiction.We discuss a study from New Zealand exploring its use in opioid dependence, while also highlighting the serious risks reported in case studies, including severe cardiotoxicity. We then turn to National Poisons Information Service data to examine rec
Episode 40: Nicotine – From Potential Benefits to Hidden Dangers
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re diving into the surprising sides of nicotine.Beyond its well-known risks, we explore how nicotine might have therapeutic potential in conditions like schizophrenia and dementia—where deficits in nicotinic acetylcholine receptors could play a role. We also discuss the MIND study, which is testing whether nicotine can boost memory, attention, and learning in dementia
Episode 39: Plastic in the Fentanyl - Why should we care about BTMPS?
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at BTMPS.A compound used as a light stabiliser in plastics, BTMPS unexpectedly surfaced in the U.S. drug supply in the summer of 2024. We unpack what’s known so far about its emergence, discuss possible reasons for its appearance, and revisit earlier research exploring its activity at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and signs of cardiotoxicity
Episode 38: Death Cap Mushrooms – Amatoxins and the Erin Patterson Case
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re taking a closer look at death cap mushrooms following the recent conclusion of the Erin Patterson case.We explore the toxicology of Amanita phalloides, from the mechanism of amatoxins to the clinical course of poisoning and the challenges of treatment. We also look at poison centre data from California to understand how often suspected exposures are reported—and how
Episode 37: Nitazene Metabolites in Post-Mortem Casework
This week on The Tox Lab, we’re diving into novel nitazene metabolites in post-mortem toxicology.We discuss findings from our own paper identifying metabolites of protonitazene in post-mortem casework, and highlight the variability in metabolites identified and what this might mean for identifying nitazene exposure. We also examine a post-mortem case report on 5-amino and 5-acetamido metonitazene
Episode 36: AI in Toxicology - Potential and Pitfalls
In this week's episode, we’re exploring the role of AI in toxicology. From large language models supporting drug identification to machine learning tools navigating the vast datasets produced by high-resolution mass spectrometry, we look at how artificial intelligence could be integrated into toxicological workflows.We also discuss the limitations — including bias in training data, challenges with
Episode 35: Xylazine and Other α2 Agonists – Clinical and Forensic Perspectives
This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of α2 adrenergic receptor agonists. We explore how xylazine, when combined with heroin, can both potentiate drug-seeking behaviour after abstinence and attenuate heroin consumption and motivation during use.We also review a study investigating naloxone and atipamezole as potential treatments for fentanyl–xylazine toxicity and examine two forens
Episode 34: Cocaine + Alcohol – Cardiac & Hepatic Consequences
This week, we’re talking about the toxic combination of cocaine and alcohol. We explore the formation of cocaethylene, and the role both cocaine and cocaethylene play in arrhythmias and other cardiac complications. We also examine potential mechanisms of liver injury linked to cocaine use—and how alcohol may amplify this effect.Join us as we break down the pharmacology and clinical consequences of
Episode 33: Tianeptine – From Antidepressant to Gas Station Heroin
This week on The Tox Lab, we're taking a closer look at tianeptine—a drug originally developed as an antidepressant, but now making headlines as “gas station heroin” due to its opioid-like effects and increasing misuse across the U.S.We explore a compelling clinical case of high-dose tianeptine withdrawal, examine national poison control data highlighting common symptoms and severity of presentati
Episode 32: Toxic Tails - A Look at Common Pet Poisons
Why is chocolate dangerous for dogs? What makes lilies so toxic to cats? In this episode of The Tox Lab, we explore the fascinating (and sometimes surprising) toxicology of common substances that can harm our pets.From household foods to ornamental plants, we break down the mechanisms behind these poisons, species-specific sensitivities, and what clinicians, pet owners, and toxicologists need to k
Episode 31: Inside the EUDA 2025 Report - Drug Trends Across Europe
This week, we dive into the European Drug Report 2025, breaking down the latest data on drug trends across Europe.From rising cocaine detections and shifting cannabis use patterns to ongoing concerns around heroin, MDMA, synthetic stimulants, and the growing presence of novel psychoactive substances — we explore the substances making headlines and what they mean for toxicologists, clinicians, and
Episode 30: Methamphetamine Enantiomers Explained - Mirror Image Molecules in Drug Testing
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of methamphetamine enantiomers—those chemically identical but biologically distinct mirror-image molecules. We examine a paper that looks at the suitability of the 20% D-methamphetamine cutoff used to indicate illicit methamphetamine use in the US, and some of the challenges associated with enantiomer testing.We also break down the differential respirat
Episode 29: Delta-8 THC vs Delta-9 THC - How One Double Bond Alters Clinical Effects
In this week's episode, we explore the growing world of delta-8 THC—how it compares to delta-9 THC, what recent research reveals about its effects when consumed orally, and what those differences might mean for users. We also discuss a pediatric case involving the accidental ingestion of delta-8 THC gummies, highlighting the clinical presentation, management, and the testing challenges that can ar
Episode 28: Bicycle Day — Albert Hofmann and His Historic LSD Trip
What started as routine lab work led to one of the most iconic bike rides in scientific history. In this episode, we dive into the story of Albert Hofmann and the accidental discovery of LSD, tracing the events of the first intentional trip—now known as Bicycle Day. We explore LSD’s early promise in psychiatry, its rise as a recreational drug, and the reasons behind its prohibition. Finally, we ex
Episode 27: Ketamine - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
In this week’s episode, we explore the evolving role of ketamine in clinical practice—from its antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant depression to its potential use in opioid use disorder. But therapeutic promise comes with toxicologic concerns. We take a closer look at the consequences of chronic ketamine use, including ketamine use disorder, cognitive and urinary complications, and the b
Episode 26: Beyond Broscience: The Toxic Truth About SARMs
In this week’s episode, we explore the expanding role of SARMs in the performance-enhancing drug landscape. Often marketed in “research-only” products, these compounds are anything but risk-free. We delve into a recent systematic review outlining their adverse effects and take a closer look at a compelling case study of drug-induced liver injury and rhabdomyolysis linked to SARM use. Tune in as we
Episode 25: Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine – Uncovering Kratom’s Alkaloids
In this week's episode, we turn our focus to mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, the primary active components of kratom. We explore what these alkaloids are, how they behave post-mortem, and what we know about their stability in biological matrices. We also discuss the evidence around 7-hydroxymitragynine’s role in respiratory depression, and the growing concern around kratom products in the U.
Episode 24: What is in that Vape?
In this week’s episode, we delve into the growing issue of adulterated vapes. We explore a study uncovering synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) in THC vape products, and anabolic-androgenic steroids in e-cigarette cartridges seized from Scottish prisons. Join us as we unpack the toxicology behind these substances and what this emerging trend could mean for public health and the future
Episode 23: Death Coffee and Penconazole Toxicity
In this week's episode, we discuss a couple of interesting case reports including a case series on 'Death Coffee' and a complex suicide case involving penconazole.
Hope you enjoy!
Links to papers we discussed:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/npr2.70013
https://clinicaterapeutica.it/ojs/index.php/1/article/view/1195/812
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
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Episode 22: Harold Shipman Part 2: Exhuming the Truth
A suspicious will led to the exhumation of Kathleen Grundy—and toxicology revealed a shocking truth. In this week's episode, we examine the forensic testing that exposed Shipman’s crimes, from hair analysis to post-mortem drug screening and how this case changed the UK’s Coronial process forever.
Hope you enjoy!
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Find us on instagram: @the_tox_lab
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Episode 21: Harold Shipman - Dr Jekyll of Hyde
A trusted doctor. A quiet town. And a trail of unexplained deaths. In this episode, we trace Harold Shipman’s fall from promising physician to prolific killer. From his pethidine addiction to his use of diamorphine as a murder weapon, we uncover the early suspicions that could have stopped him—long before his final victim.
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Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
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Episode 20: Nitrous Oxide: No Laughing Matter
In this week's episode, we explore nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. We'll discuss its historical use, pharmacological effects, potential toxicities, and the evolving legal landscape surrounding its use. Join us as we uncover the complexities of this seemingly innocuous gas and its implications for public health.
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Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
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Episode 19: Poppy Seed Toxicity: The Truth Behind the Bagel
In this week's episode, we delve into the unexpected hazards associated with poppy seed consumption. We'll explore recent cases of thebaine poisoning in Australia linked to non-food-grade poppy seeds and the risks of opioid toxicity from unwashed seeds. Join us as we examine the chemistry behind these toxicities, share real-world cases, and discuss the implications for public health and safety.
Episode 18: A Soldier, a Smuggler, and a Cocaine Bear: Tales of Meth and Mayhem
A WWII soldier on meth, a smuggler in freefall, and a bear on cocaine. In this week's episode, we break down Aimo Koivunen’s unbelievable survival after a methamphetamine overdose, then uncover the real story of Andrew Carter Thornton II, whose botched drug drop led to the infamous ‘Cocaine Bear'. Join us as we discuss the toxicology behind these wild cases and seperate fact from fiction.
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