We applied here energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDX) to medicolegal
autopsy case of drowning in a river under the influence of hypnotics. Rapid
elemental analysis using EDX identified bromide in blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid
of victim during autopsy. Subsequent toxicological analysis with a high performance
liquid chromatography revealed bromovalerylurea in blood and other specimens. Present
case shows that screening using EDX, ideal examination for non-destructive, rapid
elemental analysis, provides useful information for identification of drugs