Neogen launches ELISA test for ‘bath salts’

LEXINGTON, Ky., July 14, 2015 — Neogen has introduced an ELISA screening test that offers ultra-sensitive detection of synthetic cathinones, including methcathinone, methylone and mephedrone, and their metabolites. These drugs are commonly marketed as “bath salts” or “plant food.”

Neogen’s new simple, sensitive Synthetic Cathinones (Methcathinone) ELISA test kit has been validated for use with whole blood, serum and oral fluid samples, and is compatible with automated and semi-automated instruments. It was developed to require low sample volumes (20 μL), while providing rapid results.

“Although the abuse of synthetic cathinones is a relatively new trend, the number of positive samples seen by various testing labs we work with suggest the abuse is on the rise. We’re very pleased to provide a simple, quick and accurate method to screen samples for this group of drugs,” said Neogen’s Emilie Stanley. “Our new test has been shown to deliver better cross-reactivity to the synthetic cathinone group than competitor tests — and adds to the comprehensive line of ELISA tests we have developed in our more than 30 years in business.”

Synthetic cathinones are designer drugs chemically synthesized as beta-keto analogs of cathinone, a naturally occurring betaketone amphetamine analog found in the leaves of the khat plant (Catha edulis). Khat has historically been chewed in Middle Eastern and East African countries for its stimulant effects. Synthetic cathinone group members methcathinone and mephedrone were synthesized as early as 1928 and 1929, respectively.

This new test is for forensic use only.

Neogen’s complete line of forensic toxicology test kits are validated for screening hair, whole blood, urine, oral fluid, serum, plasma, meconium and other forensic samples. With more than 100 assays available and detectability of over 300 major drug analytes and metabolites, Neogen offers test kits that include all major drugs of abuse including THC, methadone, opiates, benzodiazepines, cocaine/BZE, barbiturates, amphetamine and “designer drugs” such as spice (synthetic cannabinoids) and designer benzodiazepines.

For more information on Neogen’s forensic toxicology test kits, visit www.Neogen.com, or contact Neogen.

Neogen Corporation (Nasdaq: NEOG) develops and markets products dedicated to food and animal safety. The company’s Food Safety Division markets dehydrated culture media and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases and sanitation concerns. Neogen’s Animal Safety Division is a leader in the development of animal genomics along with the manufacturing and distribution of a variety of animal healthcare products, including diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, veterinary instruments, wound care and disinfectants.