forensic toxicology service

Design and analysis of clinical trials.

We have considerable experience in the design of protocols and data bases for clinical studies. Our association with clinical research units and clinicians working in a broad spectrum of disciplines enables us to advise on the placing of volunteer and clinical trials. We also provide facilities for statistical analysis of data, final report writing, graphical presentation of findings and colour slide production. We have a particular interest in pharmacokinetics and the development of models to integrate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data.

GLP compliant laboratory services

We can provide GLP compliant central laboratory services for the measurement of a wide variety of drugs and endogenous compounds. We have both immunological and chromatographic techniques available. These include gas-liquid chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography, both with mass-spectrometric detection. We have extensive published experience in the development of assays for the measurement of new and established drugs. We are also happy to validate published analytical methods, or methods supplied by sponsors, to their specifications. Our assays for the measurement of endogenous compounds include markers of organ damage, markers of immune activation and a wide variety of compounds affecting the cardiovascular system. Some of these endogenous compounds, in particular those associated with the detection of myocardial damage, have been used in pre-clinical studies involving a variety of animal species. We also offer services for the detection of drugs of abuse and markers of cigarette smoking in volunteers for clinical trials.

Independent proficiency testing schemes

We have over 15 years experience in the provision of independent proficiency testing schemes for a variety of drugs. Schemes can be devised to document the quality of satellite laboratories and to provide both initial, and on going, quality assurance programs to support clinical trials that involve distributed analytical measurements. The testing schemes can be implemented to client's requirements and/or to meet international standards such as ISO 5725.

Expert Reports and Opinions

We can provide expert opinions on drug measurement, pharmacokinetic, statistical and methodology reports. We are also happy to provide opinions for solicitors on cases involving the administration of prescription medicines, illicit drug use, workplace drug testing and the interpretation of forensic toxicology reports.

Other services

The services provided by the company have no static brief and can be tailored to meet the individual needs of our customers. Our associated laboratory participates in the UK GLP Compliance Programme and is, therefore, available for analytical work in connection with studies performed for regulatory purposes. A fully qualified Quality Assurance Officer is available to carry out independent dits of laboratories and to provide opinions on their GLP working.