What does forensic toxicology examine?

Forensic toxicology is a specialized field that focuses specifically on the examination and analysis of the effects of drugs and poisons on biological systems. It involves the detection, identification, and quantification of toxic substances in biological samples such as blood, urine, and tissues. The main goal is to understand how these substances interact with the body and to determine their potential impact, particularly in cases relating to criminal incidents or accidental poisonings.

This field plays a critical role in legal investigations by providing essential information that can influence the outcome of cases involving drug overdoses, impaired driving, and substances found at crime scenes. The focus on the biological effects of drugs and poisons makes forensic toxicology distinct from the other options, which do not directly address the physiological interactions and consequences of toxic substances.