With innovative onsite screening kits and laboratory-based tests, our in-house laboratory Matrix Diagnostics is an industry leader in accurately detecting the presence of NPS in samples. These compounds, often referred to as ‘Legal Highs’ and ‘Designer Drugs’, were designed to replicate the effects of other illegal drugs. Those descriptions tended to make NPS seem more acceptable and gave the impression they were less dangerous than ‘hard’ drugs. This is not the case.
Previously freely available in so-called ‘head shops’ and online, producing and supplying NPS was made a criminal offense under the Psychoactive Substances Act of 2016.
The most common form of NPS is the synthetic cannabinoids. They are similar to cannabis in their chemical makeup, but they often have hallucinogenic compounds added that make them far more potent than cannabis itself. The best known, called Spice, contains synthetic cannabinoids and herbs.
Because NPS are cheaper and more readily available than other drugs, they have become popular in certain areas. However, the effects of these drugs can be very unpredictable and have resulted in hospital admissions and fatalities due to users experiencing sudden and violent physical reactions to the substance, causing collapse, breathing difficulties and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
For more information about hair testing please complete the form below
The Latest from our Blog…
Check out our blog for all of the latest news, events and updates from Medigold Health.
-
Breaking barriers: How we can close the disability employment gap
This guest article is written by Kath Wood, Medigold’s Lead Disability Training and Consultancy Specialist. Every year, from 20th November to 20th December, the UK marks Disability History Month (UKDHM) – a time to reflect on the history, rights and experiences of disabled people. It’s also a chance to ask[...]
Read More -
World AIDS Day: Rapid BBV testing across UK healthcare settings
Every year on 1st December, World AIDS Day reminds us of the ongoing impact of HIV and other blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and provides and opportunity to honour those affected and celebrate the progress that’s been made in prevention, treatment and care. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organisation (WHO),[...]
Read More -
The importance of compliance as an employer
Running a business means juggling multiple responsibilities, but few are more important than maintaining strong compliance with health and safety laws. Effective compliance protects your people, supports productivity, and safeguards your organisation. The latest figures underline why this matters: in 2023/24, approximately 1.7 million workers reported work-related ill health (with stress, depression or anxiety accounting[...]
Read More
