Evaluation of two immunoassay procedures for drug testing in hair samples

A preliminary initial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (LUCIO®-Direct ELISA kit) and a preliminary DRI® enzyme immunoassay were evaluated for drug detection in head hair with respect to lowered cutoff values recommended in Germany for the control of abstinence in cases of re-granting of drivers’ licences. Following drug classes were included: cannabinoids, opiates, cocaine like substances, amphetamine, methamphetamine (and methylenedioxyamphetamines), methadone, and benzodiazepines. 759 analyses were performed using LUCIO®-Direct ELISA kits and 936 analyses using DRI® enzyme immunoassay tests. Sample size for each drug group and immunoassay test reached from 74 to 178.The LUCIO®-Direct ELISA kit revealed a sensitivity of 91% for amphetamine up to 98% for methadone (methamphetamine 92%, cocaine 94%, opiates 94%, benzodiazepines 96%) and values of specificity of 72% for methadone up to 89% for amphetamine and benzodiazepines. The test was not useful for a preliminary screening for tetrahydrocannabinol (sensitivity of 65%) in consideration of a suggested cutoff of 0.02 ng/mg. The DRI® enzyme immunoassay test was only useful for morphine and cocaine testing at low recommended new cutoff values (0.1 ng/mg) revealing sensitivities of 94% and 99%, respectively.