PSU.SCI Notes
Issue 05 November 2021
Outstanding project Researchers from PSU develop highly employable tramadol test kit Asst. Prof. Dr. Apichai Phonchai
Researchers at the Faculty of Science, PSU developed a test kit for tramadol. Compared to the internationally available test kits, the newly developed set identifies this drug easily, informs about the results quickly, and is available at a much lower price. The problem of drug misuse or drug abuse among adolescents and students in Thailand has intensified and is the main reason for the initiation of other drugs. Mixing painkillers with various beverages such as energy drinks or soft drinks until becoming intoxicated is the most common new drug in Southern Thailand. It can cause euphoria, relaxation and intoxication. When used in large quantities, it can result in limb weakness, spasms, unconsciousness and can lead to possible death. Asst. Prof. Dr. Apichai Phonchai, lecturer in the Division of Health and Applied Sciences, developed a tramadol test kit that is easy to use, easy to carry, and provides results within 5 minutes. It can detect the drug both mixed in beverages and capsules. As forensic evidence, it is applied to detect a drug overdose death or to verify drugs seized from smugglers as well as to prevent and control drug abuse among adolescents. This test kit is cheaper than the imported one, which costs 2,000-3,000 THB, while the manufactured tramadol test kit costs 450 THB. It is also used as teaching aids in the Introduction to Drug Analysis and Introduction to Forensic Science courses at the bachelor's degree level as well as in Forensic Chemistry and Drug Analysis at the master's degree level. Currently under study and laboratory testing, the research team aims to extend the test kit for more applications, such as developing a urine or saliva test kit. The test kit is available at the PSU Science Learning and Innovation Centre https://slice.sci.psu.ac.th/.
Alumni - Say Hi! Graduated with Master of Science in Chemistry in 2015, Lecturer at the Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Royal University of Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phal Sereilakhena, Cambodia phal.sereilakhena@gmail.com
PSU made me feel like I was at home. I appreciated all the hospitality, care and encouragement I got from all lecturers/profs,friends and faculty staff. Cutting edge facilities and highly experienced lecturers facilitated our learning and research. PSU provided me not only knowledge and skills but also improved my interpersonal skills. I loved the study environment and the way people help each other. Thinking about life at PSU always puts a smile on my face.
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