
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.
-
Let’s talk men’s health
Men’s Health Awareness Week (9-15th June) is back. Observed annually during the week leading up to Father’s Day, Men’s Health Awareness Week aims to raise awareness about the health challenges faced by men and promote strategies for better physical and mental wellbeing. At Medigold Health, we know that workplaces have a[...]
Read More -
What is included in our drug & alcohol testing services?
When we talk about safety in the workplace, few issues are as critical—or as complex—as drug and alcohol misuse. Every year, substance misuse affects thousands of workers across the UK. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), around three million workers in Great Britain are either at risk due[...]
Read More -
Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week 2025: Strengthening community in the workplace
Every year, Mental Health Awareness Week (12th-18th May) presents a vital opportunity for individuals, organisations and communities to come together to shine a light on an issue that affects us all: mental health. This year, the theme is ‘Community’ – a timely and powerful reminder that the connections we build[...]
Read More