Frontline ^® immunochromatographic device for on-site urine testing of amphetamines: laboratory validation using authentic specimens

Abstract

SUMMARY.We evaluated a new test device for amphetamines and methamphetamines (Frontline , cut-off limit 300 ng/mL) using authentic clinical and forensic specimens. The device is based on immunochromatography and is dipped into urine and read visually by comparison with a colour scale after a few minutes. A total of 658 specimens were tested by comparing results of the screening procedure with established immunoassays. Discordant results were further investigated by gas chromatography± mass spectrometry or gas chromatography (with¯ame ionization detector). The Frontline device had a sensitivity of 93% and a speci®city of 98%. When specimens were classi®ed by urine amphetamine concentration, close agreement was obtained at concentrationsbelow 150 ng/mL and above 1000 ng/mL. A small number of specimens with amphetamine concentrations between 300 and 1000 ng/mL tested negative in the Frontline test. This ®nding could to some extent be explained by the enantioselectivity of the antibodies in the Frontline test to d-amphetamine. We conclude that the performanceof the Frontline test device for amphetaminesis adequatefor presumptive clinical and forensic screening.

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