Advances in analytical methodologies for detecting novel psychoactive substances: a review

Novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) have historically been difficult compounds to analyze in forensic toxicology. The identification, detection, and quantitation of these analytes and their metabolites have been difficult due to their rapid emergence, short lifespan, and various potencies. Advancements in analytical instrumentation are fundamental to mitigating these NPS challenges by providing reliable identification and sensitivity. This review discusses the pros and cons of various analytical instruments that have played a pivotal role in NPS analysis. As analytical technology advanced, the ability to analyze for NPS became easier with high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS); however, traditional immunoassays are still beneficial for some NPS classes such as benzodiazepines. Over 200 articles from 2010-23 were reviewed, and 180 were utilized for this review. Journal articles were categorized according to the technology used during analysis: immunoassay, gas chromatography-MS, liquid chromatography-MS-low resolution, and liquid chromatography-MS-high resolution to allow for quick references based on a laboratory's technologies. Journal articles were organized in table format to outline the authors, NPS drug classes, and instrumentation used, among other important information.