Non-Regulated

Testing Solutions

A new combination assay is now available to simultaneously test, measure, and accurately distinguish Delta-8 THC from Delta-9 THC. Traditionally, only Delta-9 THCA is reported as the standard urine metabolite. However, Delta-8 THC is the new primary alternative to Delta-9 THC that is promoted in the market as “legal marijuana.”

Use of these products is done with intent to circumvent drug testing programs, as Delta-8 THC traditionally has not been a reportable analyte in urine or oral fluid samples. Like the effects of traditional Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC has interactions at the CB1 receptor in the brain, which creates the psychological high associated with marijuana use. Although individuals claim the effects of using Delta-8 THC is slightly less potent, the impairment aspects have not been well studied. Therefore, it creates the same risk as traditional marijuana for operators of trucks, planes, cars, machinery, etc.

Even though there are many FDA approved benzodiazepines available in the U.S., there are some compounds called “designer benzodiazepines” which are extremely potent and have not been approved for sale in any country. The extreme effects of these designer benzodiazepines and their impact on performance is particularly concerning in a workplace setting or for those driving a vehicle. Because these compounds are not part of a standard benzodiazepine panel, these drugs escape detection.

CRL has a standard 16-panel benzodiazepines offering. These include drugs commonly prescribed in the United States to treat anxiety and alcohol withdrawal, as well as those used as muscle relaxants and for seizure control. More recently, CRL has validated an additional seven designer benzodiazepine drugs to expand the standard panel in an effort to detect illicit benzodiazepines.