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Laboratory validation study of drug evaluation and classification program: alprazolam, d-amphetamine, codeine, and
S J Heishman1, E G Singleton, D J Crouch
1National Institute on Drug Abuse, Division of Intramural Research, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Sheish@intra.nida.nih.gov
Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|October 27, 1998
Summary
The Drug Evaluation and Classification (DEC) program accurately predicts the use of alprazolam, d-amphetamine, codeine, and marijuana. Focusing on specific DEC evaluation variables can improve drug use prediction accuracy for law enforcement.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The Drug Evaluation and Classification (DEC) program aids law enforcement in identifying drug-impaired drivers.
- Accurate identification of drug classes causing impairment is crucial for public safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the DEC evaluation's effectiveness in predicting the administration of specific drugs (alprazolam, d-amphetamine, codeine, marijuana).
- To assess the accuracy of Drug Recognition Examiners (DREs) in identifying drug use and classes.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized study involving 48 volunteers administered varying doses of alprazolam, d-amphetamine, codeine, marijuana, or placebo.
- DEC evaluations and blood sample analysis were conducted to correlate drug administration with assessment findings.
Main Results:
- The DEC evaluation accurately predicted drug intake when utilizing 2-7 specific variables.
- DREs correctly identified impairment from any active drug in 76% of cases.
- DREs' drug class identification matched toxicology results in 32% of cases.
Conclusions:
- The DEC evaluation is a valid tool for predicting the acute administration of alprazolam, d-amphetamine, codeine, and marijuana.
- Optimizing the use of a subset of DEC variables can enhance the accuracy of drug use predictions.