The world of illicit drugs has seen a shift largely driven by the emergence of fentanyl. Allen Johnson, VP of Marketing, Psychemedics, recently presented a webinar for DISA covering the essential information about fentanyl followed by Q&A with attendees. Here are some of the most common questions Allen sees on the topic.
Common Questions about Fentanyl Use and Testing
Will a standard 10-panel test detect Fentanyl?
Fentanyl isn't a substance that is tested on standard 10-panel tests. You can run it as a standalone test, and it would be detected. Alternatively, it can be seamlessly integrated into your existing panel or combined with a hair panel testing for a more holistic screening approach.
Are you seeing more companies testing for Fentanyl?
Yes, we're indeed witnessing a notable increase in the number of clients requesting fentanyl drug testing. This uptick isn't limited to just standalone fentanyl tests; many clients are also choosing to include fentanyl in their broader testing panels as an extra layer of security and vigilance.
Are there different versions of fentanyl you test for?
We conduct comprehensive testing for fentanyl, covering six different analytes. This thorough approach ensures that we can reliably and accurately detect various forms and derivatives of fentanyl, leaving no room for ambiguity.
Does the DOT allow fentanyl testing?
Currently, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has not included fentanyl testing as part of its mandatory testing requirements. While DOT regulations are subject to updates, it's essential to note that fentanyl testing is not yet part of their standard protocols.
Does the statistic of overdose vs. death include illicit use only, or does it include non-illicit use as well?
The statistics concerning overdose vs. death are a bit nuanced. These numbers are derived from data provided by the White House Office for Drug Policy. They are often compared to the CDC's statistics, which include not only illicit use but also instances where individuals have overdosed due to the illicit use of prescription drugs, or the consumption of illicitly manufactured fentanyl found in counterfeit pills.
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