Neogen launches rapid test for 6-acetylmorphine (6-AM)

LEXINGTON, Ky., Aug. 1, 2016 — Neogen has introduced a screening test that offers ultra-sensitive detection of 6-AM (a.k.a., 6-MAM and 6-monoacetylmorphine). 6-AM is a unique metabolite of heroin.

Neogen’s new, simple 6-AM test kit has been validated for use with whole blood, serum, urine and oral fluid samples, and is compatible with automated and semi-automated instruments. The new kit has been validated with Neogen’s NeoSal® Oral Fluid Collection System, and complements the company’s extensive line of test kits for use with oral fluid samples.

“We’re very pleased to provide a simple, quick and highly sensitive method to screen samples for 6-AM, as the forensic industry responds to the increased abuse of heroin,” said Neogen’s Emilie Stanley. “Our new test for 6-AM complements our tests for other drugs known to be represented as heroin, or mixed with it, such as fentanyl and its derivative carfentanil.”

Following administration, heroin is metabolized into 6-AM, and more slowly into morphine. The presence of 6-AM is a definitive biomarker for heroin abuse, and allows for specific heroin monitoring without the potential of interference by typical and legally prescribed opiates.

The 6-AM 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 fentanyl, THC, methadone, opiates, benzodiazepines, cocaine/BZE, barbiturates, amphetamine and “designer drugs” such as spice (synthetic cannabinoids), bath salts (synthetic cathinones) and designer benzodiazepines.

For more information on Neogen’s forensic toxicology test kits, visit toxicology.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.