Forensic Laboratories, a Denver-based laboratory specialising in toxicology services for drug abuse, has unveiled the first oral fluid test for Tapentadol, a new federally approved drug prescribed by doctors for pain management.

Previously, laboratories could only detect the drug through urine using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) technology.

Tapentadol, approved by the FDA in late 2008, is considered a narcotic pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe pain. Accurate testing is critical for doctors to ensure that patients are compliant in their utilization of the drug.

Forensic Laboratories’ oral fluid technology, PAINpro allows pain management specialists to test orally for drug monitoring. Forensic Laboratories introduced PAINpro in January 2009.

Michael Gates, vice president for Forensic Laboratories, said: “In being the first to produce an oral assay for Tapentadol, our research team has again demonstrated its leadership and ability to quickly adapt to physician needs in pain management.

“In many cases, doctors who administer pain medications don’t always have the ability to ensure they are collecting a urine sample that hasn’t been tampered with unless direct supervision of the collection has been administered.”