Combating the Opioid Epidemic: Forensic Methods to Detect Synthetic Drugs
The opioid epidemic is also a rampant public health dilemma in the United States, as synthetic opioids such as fentanyl have fueled an alarming spike of overdose deaths. With more deadly substances being formulated by underground operators, forensic toxicology is poised to become the key to both identifying and slowing opioid-related death. Carlson Company, a world leader in next-generation forensic analysis, is at the forefront of meeting synthetic opioid dependency with innovative forensic toxicology for opioids.
Understanding Synthetic Opioids and Demand for Detection
Synthetic opioids like fentanyl and its derivatives are much more powerful than opioids found in the classical opioids, making synthetic drug detection a must when handling forensic investigations. Most overdose fatalities include illicitly produced fentanyl mixed with other drugs. The detection of these synthetic opioids involves forensic drug testing by advanced techniques.
Forensic Toxicology in Opioid Cases
Forensic analysts utilize sophisticated testing procedures to detect opioids in bio-samples. Opioids can be detected using forensic toxicology in urine, blood, and tissues. GC-MS opioid drug testing (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) is the most accurate test to detect fentanyl and fentanyl derivatives.
Main Methods of Synthetic Drug Detection
Synthetic drug detection is done by several methods used in forensic laboratories to prevent opioid addiction, such as:
1. GC-MS Drug Testing for Opioids
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is also commonly applied in forensic labs to screen drugs in the USA to identify synthetic opioids with precise specificity. It is a much-recommended technique among opioid crisis forensic testing due to its credible outcomes.
2. Fentanyl Detection Methods
Fentanyl detection needs sophisticated equipment, including immunoassays and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These are utilized by law enforcement officers and forensic examiners during opioid overdose forensic analysis.
3. Detection of Synthetic Opioids
Synthetic opioid detection is achieved by forensic examiners with the help of advanced analytical equipment from seized drug samples and biological samples. Synthetic opioid forensic methods can enable even the trace fentanyl to be detected.
In opioid epidemic forensic analysis, forensic toxicologists collaborate with law enforcement to monitor new drug trends. Opioid abuse detection technology detects new synthetic opioids ahead of time, before they become increasingly popular more broadly, giving public health officials a head start.
The Role of The Carlson Company in Forensic Toxicology
At The Carlson Company, we are experts in opioid forensic toxicology, performing detailed testing for legal, medical, and investigative purposes. Our advanced forensic drug testing laboratories in the USA deliver precise and confidential results to assist authorities and healthcare professionals in addressing the opioid crisis successfully.
Conclusion
The increasing risk of synthetic opioids requires sophisticated forensic toxicology for opioids to enhance opioid identification and public safety. The Carlson Company is dedicated to delivering innovative forensic toxicology solutions, complementing the efforts towards reducing the effect of the opioid crisis. With the opioid crisis, forensic testing and synthetic opioid identification, we can strive towards a safer and healthier community.
