A patent for a highly sensitive test to detect the presence of the “date rape” drug, GHB, has recently been granted to the University of California, Santa Barbara. Several companies have expressed interest in developing and marketing the test, which can be designed as a kit with small strips of paper that change from white to intense purple color in a few seconds if GHB is present. The UCSB test is the most rapid one available that is also sensitive, according to the researchers. At this time there are other tests on the market with such poor sensitivity that only dangerously high levels of GHB can be detected.Speedy and sensitive detection is extremely important in emergency room settings where comatose patients must be rapidly diagnosed. And law enforcement officials can use the test to detain individuals in possession of GHB. The test can also be used to quickly check a drink for the presence of GHB.The UCSB team has developed a test that is so sensitive that GHB can be detected in just one quarter of a drop of urine, blood or alcoholic beverage.
