RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Detection of drug misuse--an addictive challenge. JF Journal of Clinical Pathology JO J Clin Pathol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Association of Clinical Pathologists SP 713 OP 718 DO 10.1136/jcp.52.10.713 VO 52 IS 10 A1 J H Galloway A1 I D Marsh YR 1999 UL http://jcp.bmj.com/content/52/10/713.abstract AB It is now accepted that drug misuse is a large and growing problem in the United Kingdom, some estimates of the number of regular illicit drug users being as high as three million. The aim of this paper is to provide insight into the methods used to detect drug misuse. The strategy adopted by one laboratory is described and methods of screening for, and identification of, a wide range of compounds are provided. No claim is made that this is the best approach or that the list of drugs detected is comprehensive; the range of drugs encountered is always increasing and the lists are constantly updated. It is hoped that users of toxicology laboratory services will gain an appreciation of the capabilities and limitations of the techniques available; and that those who may wish to provide such a service will find the necessary information in a readily accessible format.