Evolution of Forensic Toxicology

Abstract

The field of science dealing with criminal investigation is known as forensic science. Throughout history, evidence has been used to condemn criminals of the crimes that they have committed. Over the past twenty-five years, the forensic sciences have made huge scientific breakthroughs with the application of modern techniques, physical evidence databases, and new scientific instrumentation. Forensic toxicology is a category of forensic science which deals with examination of chemicals, drugs and their fatal effects on the body. This report on forensic toxicology deals with classification of drugs and chemicals along with the modes of action of some poisons - Cocaine, Cannabis, Cyanide, Chloroform, and Aspirin. Various types of samples and classical and modern testing methods are discussed. Postmortem findings in case of death due to suspected chemical poisoning based on external and internal examination has been reviewed.