Traditional analytical assays utilize targeted methodologies that identify exact compounds or drug classes within the confines of the assay's sensitivity and specificity. The general lack of knowledge and absence of analytical reference materials and standards have led to the inability to detect NPS presence in biological fluids and subsequent false negatives reporting from clinical laboratories.
In a clinical laboratory, false negatives for NPS and other illicit substances may prevent health care professionals from effectively treating patients with substance use disorders or understanding the cause of illness in the emergency room patient. NPS can be divided into various categories including synthetic cathinones (bath salts), synthetic cannabinoids (spice), tryptamines, piperazines, as well as analogues of medications such as amphetamines, fentanyl and other opioids. NPS are illicit synthetic compounds manufactured clandestinely and distributed throughout the world. In the last decade, the relevant comprehensive abilities of drug testing laboratories have been challenged with the continued emergence and proliferation of new/novel psychoactive substances (NPS). Aaron Stella, in Accurate Results in the Clinical Laboratory (Second Edition), 2019 IntroductionĬlinicians rely on accurate drug testing in the clinical laboratory to provide quality patient care.