Gas chromatographic determination of cocaine in whole blood and plasma using a nitrogen-sensitive flame ionization detector.

A procedure is described for the determination of as little as 20 ng of cocaine from 1 ml of whole blood or plasma. Methods are also given for the storage of whole blood or plasma containing cocaine as well as for whole blood or plasma extracts. Blood levels in patients receiving intranasal cocaine for topical anesthesia while undergoing rhinoplasty are also presented.