Nitazenes (Synthetic opioid)

Test information: Nitazenes are highly potent synthetic opioids that require multiple doses of naloxone to reverse the effects. May be sold as counterfeit medicines reported to be oxycodone or benzodiazepines such as alprazolam. Nitazenes are NOT detected using the routine urine DOA screen, as requests a highly sensitive detection method. **If you have any suspicion of Nitazene ingestion, please contact the Duty Biochemist on 01872 253047 to discuss the case and arrange analysis.**

Specimen Type(s)

• Blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

Plain urine as near to admission as possible.

Specimen Container - Adult

• Purple Top BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Lilac Top Microtainer BD;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

N/A

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

2ml

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

Sample to be taken as near to the admission of the patient i.e. ingestion of drug as possible.

Maximum add on time

We can use an EDTA (purple) top that has been used for FBC (if still in storage).

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

See the report.

UKAS number

8407

UKAS accredited test?

No

Comments

**Please phone the Duty Biochemist (ext 3047) to discuss the case.**

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.