What can drug recognition techniques detect?

Drug recognition techniques are designed to identify and categorize various substances that may impair an individual's ability to function normally. These techniques typically focus not on pinpointing individual drugs, but rather on grouping substances into broader categories based on their effects, chemical properties, and other shared characteristics.

Certain drug recognition expert (DRE) methods involve observing signs and symptoms exhibited by individuals under the influence of drugs. These observations help classify the substances according to categories such as stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, narcotics, and others. Such categories guide further assessment and treatment options.

The ability to identify categories rather than specific drugs is fundamental in various fields, including law enforcement, addiction treatment, and clinical assessment, as it supports a structured approach to addressing substance use and abuse.