SpiceSynthetic drug use presents unique challenges for employers to navigate. As a relatively new phenomenon, the existence of these drugs is neither widely known nor understood. Hundreds of different compounds are used to create these designer drugs, and with so many different combinations available, it can be challenging to identify them.

The Center for Substance Abuse Research (CESAR) has partnered with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to develop the National Drug Early Warning System (NDEWS). This system will monitor emerging drug trends that will help health experts identify increasing use of designer synthetic compounds. The system will scan conventional data resources, like the Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index™, along with social media outlets and other web platforms to identify new drug trends.

“NDEWS will generate critically needed information about new drug trends in specific locations around the country so rapid, informed, and effective public health responses can be developed precisely where needed,” said NIDA Director Dr. Nora D. Volkow. “By monitoring trends at the local level, we hope to prevent emerging drug problems from escalating or spreading to surrounding regions.”

CESAR FAX provides a monthly, one-page overview of timely substance abuse trends or issues. Read the latest issue for more information.

For more information about drug testing, visit our website.