While this solicitation described the need for better sampling methods and rugged mass spectrometers, the topic author funded our alternative approach, which employs existing DoD Raman spectrometers. The Phase III project goal is to develop a Field-Usable Designer Drug Analyzer capable of identifying and quantifying drugs in saliva and blood at 10 ng/mL in 10 minutes. Feasibility was demonstrated during Phase I by developing a novel sample system that separated and measured codeine and fentanyl in saliva at 1 and 0.5 microg/mL and blood at 5 and 5 microg/mL by Raman spectroscopy, respectively. The time from sample collection to analysis was <10 min. Calculated detection limits were 244 and 152 ng/mL for the two drugs in blood, respectively. During the Phase II project ~50 patient saliva samples, containing highly potent drugs, such as fentanyl and synthetic cannabinoids, will be obtained by Virginia Commonwealth University Medical School and the local Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and will be measured using the fully developed sample system and a DoD Mil-Std 810G Raman spectrometer. The patientÂ’s saliva plus urine samples will also be measured by GC/MS to validate the approach. The data will be used to pursue FDA Clearance.
