The changing drug market requires an innovative analysis method
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Västra Götalandsregionen - Klinisk kemi |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 840 000 |
| Project duration | September 2017 - December 2020 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Medtech4Health innovators |
| Call | Medtech4Health:Innovators in Healthcare 2017 |
Important results from the project
Notable gains can be made in both quality of life and social economy if we improve the way drugs of abuse are analysed in healthcare. The aim of the project was therefore to develop and offer a patient-friendly, reliable, fast and affordable drug analysis in saliva based on analysis with high-resolution mass spectrometry. The list of analysed drugs included in the analysis will also be flexible to meet the challenge of the rapid influx of new designer drugs.
Expected long term effects
We have developed a comprehensive drug analysis in saliva using high-resolution mass spectrometry. In October 2018, the analysis was made available for healthcare as a clinical routine analysis at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital. We have on several occasions updated the list of new psychoactive substances which are included in the analysis. The method has been presented at both national and international meetings and has been submitted for publication in a scientific journal. The continuous use of this method is expected to improve the diagnostics of drug dependence.
Approach and implementation
After its introduction, the analysis quickly gained popularity since it offers more patient-friendly sampling and increased diagnostic sensitivity compared to standard urine drug analysis. To date, >35,000 samples have been analysed and the sample flow is now 2000/month. In May 2020, new regional medical guidelines were implemented for the Västra Götaland region for harmful use/dependence on cannabis, stimulants and opioids, and in these, our analysis is the first-hand choice for drug testing.