In a significant stride towards enhancing public health safety, researchers from the University of the Philippines-Manila have unveiled a pioneering point-of-care testing (POCT) device. This device is capable of detecting selected new psychoactive substances (NPS), commonly known as “designer drugs.”
This innovative POCT tool is named ETox-NPS. It offers a rapid, preliminary screening method for substances such as ketamine, synthetic cannabinoids, and synthetic cathinones using urine samples.
Understanding NPS: A Growing Global Concern
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) defines NPS as substances that are not regulated under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. These substances are created to mimic the effects of traditional illicit drugs. They include cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and methamphetamine. The UNODC has raised concerns about NPS due to their potential public health threats, given their unpredictable effects and the lack of regulation.
The Innovation Behind ETox-NPS
ETox-NPS stands out as a critical development in the fight against drug abuse in the Philippines. The device’s lead scientist and inventor, Ailyn Yabes, highlighted the importance of this innovation. “The ETox-NPS would be very useful because there is no POCT screening kit for NPS available for use in the Philippines. NPS is also not yet included in the drugs of abuse panel in the Philippines,” Yabes explained. Current screening practices in the country are primarily limited to traditional illicit drugs, such as amphetamines and cannabinoids. This leaves a gap in detecting newer, potentially dangerous substances.
Yabes is an Associate Professor at the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at UP Manila. She emphasised that the ETox-NPS device serves as an initial test to identify the presence of NPS in urine. However, she cautioned that “a more specific and sensitive method” is still required to confirm the presence of these substances conclusively. This two-tier approach ensures that while ETox-NPS provides a rapid preliminary assessment, confirmatory testing can offer a definitive diagnosis.
Broader Implications and Future Directions
The development of ETox-NPS aligns with the global trend of increasing awareness and response to the rise of NPS. These substances are often marketed as legal alternatives to controlled drugs, making the need for detection methods more pressing. This is also timely considering the rise of such product. The ETox-NPS device not only represents a technological advancement but also highlights the proactive steps being taken by Filipino researchers to address public health challenges.
In addition to the ETox-NPS, Yabes has also developed another POCT device, ETox Phx. This tool is designed to detect non-accidental poisoning from selected pharmaceutical drugs. They include paracetamols, isoniazid, and salicylate, which is commonly associated with aspirin poisoning. ETox Phx can facilitate more effective emergency care for patients by enabling timely detection.
Conclusion
Therefore, the introduction of ETox-NPS marks a pivotal moment in the landscape of drug detection in the Philippines. As the country grapples with the challenge of NPS and their associated health risks, the device offers a crucial tool for early detection and intervention. The work of Ailyn Yabes and her team underscores the role of health innovation, paving the way for safer communities and better health outcomes.
As the world continues to confront the complexities of NPS, the development of ETox-NPS stands as a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of Filipino researchers. Their efforts not only contribute to the national agenda of combating drug abuse. They also resonate on a global scale, reflecting a collective commitment to public safety and health.
Have a pressing question for a doctor? Medical Channel Asia has launched a community forum page where you can get questions answered by a medical specialist. Visit the community forum here.
