A method of detecting the presence of a cathinone moiety in a sample, such as a suspected illicit drug sample, which comprises contacting the sample with a solution comprising neocuproine, a source of copper(II) and a catalyst and observing a colour change, where present, that correlates with the presence of cathinone. The method is operable at environmental temperature. Mechanical elements may be employed to accelerate the colour change if desired.
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