# New Biomarker Extends GHB Detection Window to 72 Hours University of Zurich researchers identify a compound that detects date-rape drug long after ingestion. - **Source:** [Público](https://www.publico.pt) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [health](https://brifing.si/c/health) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8ae14824-2f25-44a4-b62f-03162e7b9442 ## Extended Detection Window Researchers at the University of Zurich have identified a new biomarker capable of detecting GHB in urine for up to 72 hours post-ingestion. This discovery significantly expands the detection period compared to traditional methods, which typically only identify the substance within six hours in blood or twelve hours in urine samples. ## The GHB-Pentose Compound The breakthrough involves a specific compound formed by gamma-hydroxybutyrate and sugar, known as GHB-pentose. First identified by the team in 2021, this biomarker remains stable and detectable in urine long after the primary GHB substance has been metabolized or cleared from the body, providing a crucial window for forensic medical analysis. ## Forensic Sample Analysis The research team analyzed 2,414 anonymized urine samples collected from real forensic cases between 2024 and 2026. Among these, 14 samples proved particularly significant because they contained detectable levels of GHB-pentose even when standard GHB concentrations had already fallen below the established detection limits used by clinical and forensic laboratory analysts. ## Corroborating Criminal Suspicions In eight of the 14 critical cases, the presence of the biomarker confirmed suspicions that GHB had been consumed or administered. This included three specific alleged crimes, comprising two robberies and one sexual assault, where urine samples were collected between 13 and 16 hours after the suspected time of the initial drug administration. ## Properties of the Substance GHB is a dangerous substance because it is virtually odorless and fully miscible in water, allowing it to pass unnoticed when added to drinks. The drug produces euphoric effects within just 15 minutes of ingestion, which rapidly progress to extreme fatigue, often leaving victims with no memory of events upon waking up. ## Overcoming Diagnostic Limitations The study demonstrates that the GHB-pentose biomarker can indicate prior drug use even when the substance is no longer detectable by conventional testing methods. This capability is essential for forensic investigations where delays in reporting or sample collection often prevent the successful identification of the drug in a victim's biological system. ## Clinical and Legal Impact By extending the detection window to 72 hours, this method provides law enforcement and medical professionals with a more reliable tool for investigating cases involving suspected drug-facilitated crimes. The ability to confirm the presence of GHB long after the incident is critical for gathering evidence and supporting the legal process for victims. ## Future Forensic Application The integration of this biomarker into routine forensic protocols could fundamentally change how drug-facilitated sexual assault cases are handled. As the substance is frequently used for malicious purposes, having a robust, long-term detection method ensures that more victims can receive medical confirmation and legal support following an incident of drug administration. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.publico.pt/2026/11/11/sociedade/noticia/novo-metodo-permite-detetar-droga-violacao-ate-72-horas-apos-ingerida-2194550 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._