A comparison of the OnTrak Testcup-5 to laboratory urinalysis among arrestees

Abstract

Research studies that collect urine specimens to measure recent drug use have traditionally sent the specimens to laboratories for analysis. A new method of urinalysis-instant urine testing-may offer a quicker, equally accurate alternative to laboratory assays. To date, however, no studies have explored the efficacy of instant urine technology with individuals under criminal justice supervision. To address this limitation, the authors administered a single instant urine test-the OnTrak Testcup-5-to 136 adult male arrestees surveyed through Maryland's Substance Abuse Need for Treatment among Arrestees (SANTA) study. The specimens were subsequently shipped to an independent laboratory for reanalysis. Analyses indicate high agreement between the two techniques for marijuana, cocaine, and heroin. Potential uses for the OnTrak Testcup-5 are discussed.