Drugs of Abuse Screen: opiates, methadone, EDDP, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cannabinoids, cocaine metabolites, buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine

Clinical Chemistry


Description

The seven drug group assays provided(opiates, methadone, amphetamine class, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine metabolites, and cannabinoids) are commonly abused in the UK. Detecting the presence of these drugs in the urine is an aid to the management of drug abusers under reduction regimes as well as a first line analytical approach to overdose situations in the clinical and forensic field. The routine drugs of abuse screen will not normally include barbiturates. Screening for other drugs is available on specific request. Please note that the opiate screen does include oxycodone.


Indications

In this laboratory, urine screening for drugs of abuse is primarily provided as a means of monitoring drug misusers on treatment regimes and occasionally in workplace testing. The use of the test in the emergency setting is of limited value and is of little merit in the treatment of overdose.


Sample Type

Random urine (no preservative) (white top), at least 1 mL (preferably 10 mL - see below*)


Reference Range

Not applicable


Turnaround Time

Within 1 week


Testing Frequency

Daily (Monday-Friday)


External Notes

* Although analysis is possible using a relatively small sample of urine, 10 mL is required where it is necessary to confirm the results of a positive screen by an alternative technique. Routine laboratory transport is available for Sheffield GPs and Substance Misuse Service. All users should ensure samples are well sealed and individually bagged to minimise spillage.


Patient Preparation

Where possible the patient/client should be chaperoned to limit the opportunity to adulterate or exchange the urine sample. In cases where there are potential medico-legal implications (e.g. workplace testsing) a strict chain-of-custody procedure should b


Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.

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Drugs of Abuse Screen: opiates, methadone, EDDP, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cannabinoids, cocaine metabolites, buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine