Researchers from the University of the Philippines-Manila have introduced a cutting-edge point-of-care testing (POCT) device called ETox-NPS. This new technology is designed to detect new psychoactive substances (NPS), commonly known as designer drugs, using urine samples. The ETox-NPS can identify substances such as ketamine, synthetic cannabinoids, and synthetic cathinones, addressing a critical gap in drug testing capabilities within the Philippines.
The Challenge of New Psychoactive Substances
New psychoactive substances are substances of abuse that are not controlled under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs or the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. These drugs, often created to mimic the effects of controlled substances like cannabis, cocaine, and methamphetamine, present significant risks due to their unpredictable nature and rapid chemical evolution. The UNODC highlights that these substances can pose a substantial public health threat, complicating efforts to manage and mitigate their effects.
The Impact and Future of ETox-NPS
The ETox-NPS device is a significant step forward in the realm of drug detection. As Ailyn Yabes, lead scientist and inventor, notes, this device fills a crucial need in the Philippines, where existing local screening tests are limited to traditional illicit drugs such as amphetamines and cannabinoids. While the ETox-NPS provides an initial screening for NPS, confirmation of these substances will still require more specific testing methods. In addition to this, Yabes has also developed the ETox Phx POCT, designed for detecting non-accidental poisoning from pharmaceutical drugs like paracetamol, isoniazid, and aspirin. Together, these advancements promise to enhance emergency care and drug testing practices.
