When it comes to drug checking, the sensitivity and specificity of a test strip matters, but the way the sample is prepared matters too.
Instanosis test strips are designed to detect very small amounts of a substance. Because the strips are so sensitive, you do not need to use a large amount of sample for testing. Using too much material can make the test harder to interpret and may increase the chance of getting a misleading result (false positives or false negatives). That is one of the reasons we created a sampling tool specifically for use with our products.
The sampling tool helps users collect a smaller, more consistent amount of material before mixing it with water. Instead of estimating the amount each time, the tool gives users a more repeatable way to prepare the sample.
This can be especially helpful in harm reduction programs where several different staff members, outreach workers, or community members may be doing the testing. Without a consistent method, one person may use much more sample than another. The tool helps take some of that guesswork out of the process.
Another benefit is that less of the substance needs to be used for each test. Since our strips are designed to detect extremely low concentrations, a small amount of sample, usually 1/10 of what other strips require, can still be enough for testing (see photo below comparing the amounts of samples needed). Using the proper amount of sample and water helps users take advantage of that sensitivity without making the solution more concentrated than it needs to be.
Too much sample can also introduce more of the other substances that may be present in a drug sample. Keeping the amount more controlled can help reduce interference and avoid false positives or false negatives. The goal is to use enough material to get a reliable result while avoiding unnecessary sample that could affect the test.
The sampling tool can be used with our individual fentanyl, xylazine, nitazenes, and medetomidine test strips, as well as our 3-in-1 test strips. It was designed around the specifications of the tests themselves so users can get the benefit of extremely sensitive testing, avoid cross-reactivity or interference, while keeping the preparation process simple.
As the drug supply continues to change, we want to make drug checking as practical as possible for the organizations using our products in the field. That means not only developing sensitive and specific test strips but also providing tools that can make the testing process easier and more consistent.
See how the sampling tool works: