An inexpensive and rapid method to routinely biochemically confirm smoking status at a clinical visit (Nicotine & Tobacco Research 2002; 4: 305-9)

Nicalert™ can be used to test the level of cotinine, a by-product of the body’s breakdown of nicotine, in urine and saliva. Nicotine is the active ingredient found in tobacco products and tobacco smoke. Cotinine is a widely accepted indicator of recent tobacco use and exposure, including second hand smoke exposure.

Both Nicalert™ Urine and Saliva:

• Provide quick, accurate, on-the-spot determination of an individual’s smoking status
• Measure the use of cigarettes, pipes, cigars and other tobacco products
• Measure nictotine intake from nicotine replacement sources such as patch, gum and lozenge
• Have been used medically and in research programs.
• Can provide a positive incentive to people trying to quit or reduce tobacco intake by watching their levels drop

Determines Secondhand Smoke Esposure

The urine test is ideal for lower levels of nicotine exposure and is sensitive enough to determine second hand smoke exposure. A reading of 1 typically points towards some passive smoke exposure. A reading of 2 indicates considerable passive exposure. A reading of 3 is normally the cut-off for determining if the subject is a smoker. Testing urine is also preferable for chewing tobacco studies.

Urine Test Kit

The urine test kit contains a test strip, a detailed product insert and a plasticized card. The card outlines simple instructions and provides a non-absorbent surface to lay the strip on while performing the test. Urine does not need to be processed, nor does it need to be “first morning” or “midstream”. It does need to be clear and at room temperature. The tip of the test strip is dipped (not beyond the arrows), for 20 seconds and then placed on the area indicated on the plastic card. After 15-20 minutes when the blue line at the strip’s top disappears the test can be read.

It is important to recognize that it is the same test strip for both applications. What differs is the nature of the fluid being tested.

NicAlert™ is available for R&D applications. Click here for more information.