Drugs of Abuse Testing Market Set to Expand from 2024 to 2028

The drugs of abuse testing market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased strategic developments and the growing adoption of advanced information technology and information management solutions. The market is expanding due to the rising prevalence of substance use disorders, prescription drug abuse, psychostimulants, fentanyl, vaping, illicit drugs, and alcohol.

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Market Segmentation

By Product

• Instruments
• Consumables

By Geography

• North America
  • Canada
  • US
• Europe
  • Denmark
• Asia
  • China
  • India
• Rest of World (ROW)

Market Insights by Product

Instruments Segment Drives Market Growth

The instruments segment is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market encompasses various analyzers, breath analyzers, chromatography analyzers, immunoassay analyzers, urine testing devices, and oral fluid testing devices used for detecting and quantifying drug substances.

Forensic drug chemistry and cannabis testing rely on mass spectrometers and chromatography systems to measure the presence of cannabinoid compounds. Real-time surveillance and epidemiologic investigations are crucial applications for these tests, particularly in the context of opioid dependence and chronic pain management.

Opioid medications and recreational marijuana are key targets for testing, with cannabinoids being a primary focus in cannabis analysis. Immunoassays remain a popular choice for initial screenings due to their speed and cost-effectiveness, while mass spectrometry and chromatography are preferred for confirmatory testing.

The elderly population is an emerging demographic in the market, as they are more likely to be prescribed opioid medications for chronic pain management. The instruments segment plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety and effective healthcare management.

Regional Market Trends

• North America

  • The region dominated the market in 2023, with the US being the primary contributor.
  • The prevalence of drug abuse in the US has driven market growth.
  • According to the CDC, drug overdose deaths in the US reached over 96,779 in 2021, a 29.6% increase from the previous year.
  • In 2022, drug-related deaths in the US reached nearly 108,000, increasing the demand for drug testing services.
  • Forensic technologies and hospitals play a crucial role in identifying substance use disorders.
  • Public awareness campaigns and addiction treatment initiatives have fueled market growth.

• Europe

  • The region is expected to contribute 33% to global market growth during the forecast period.
  • Regional trends and drivers, such as forensic laboratory advancements and addiction treatment strategies, are shaping market expansion.

• Asia

  • China and India are key markets due to increasing government regulations and drug monitoring programs.
  • Public health initiatives and technological advancements are driving market growth.

Market Dynamics

Key Drivers

• Increased Strategic Development

  • Companies in the market are pursuing strategic initiatives, including product advancements and innovations, to expand their offerings.
  • The Recovery Platform is designed to assist primary care physicians in managing opioid addiction recovery efficiently.
  • These developments aim to address the economic and social burdens caused by narcotic drugs, opiates, amphetamines, methadone, and barbiturates.
  • Rapid testing solutions, such as OralTox and multidrug detection methods, are gaining traction.

Market Trends

• Growing Adoption of Information Management Solutions

  • In the US, drug testing laboratories conduct extensive tests on opioids, psychostimulants, and vaping products to ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Forensic laboratories, hospitals, and healthcare facilities are major consumers of drugs of abuse testing services.
  • Advanced analytical techniques, including chromatography, mass spectrometry, and immunoassays, detect and measure the presence and concentration of targeted substances.
  • Maintaining accurate records is essential for regulatory compliance.
  • US FDA regulations require detailed documentation for periodic audit checks.
  • Substance abuse mapping and vulnerability assessments help identify trends in drug abuse.

Market Challenges

• High Costs Associated with Testing Technologies

  • Stringent regulations require the use of accurate and reliable testing methods, leading to higher costs.
  • Small- and medium-scale testing laboratories face budget constraints that impact the adoption of advanced testing solutions.
  • Proteomic research collaborations are increasing as laboratories seek cost-effective solutions.
  • Cannabis strains testing requires the extraction of various cannabinoids, adding to operational costs.

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Key Players in the Market

• Abbott Laboratories
• Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.
• CareHealth America Corp.
• Clinical Reference Laboratory Inc.
• Cordant Health Solutions
• Danaher Corp.
• Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
• Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
• Merck KGaA
• Omega Laboratories Inc.
• Precision Diagnostics
• Psychemedics Corp.
• Quest Diagnostics Inc.
• QuidelOrtho Corp.
• Randox Laboratories Ltd.
• Shimadzu Corp.
• Siemens Healthineers AG
• SureHire Inc.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.