Reagent Test Kit Basics
Introduction to Reagent Testing
Reagent is three syllables, pronounced RE-AYE-gent.
Reagent testing is not a perfect method of testing drugs, but it can be very useful for presumptive testing.
Presumptive testing means that the test shows when a certain substance is present in the sample.
In many cases reagent tests do not rule out the possibility of another similar compound being present in addition to or instead of the one suspected.
It is important to remember that a positive reaction for a reagent test does not mean a substance is 'safe'. A reagent test can only determine whether a substance is present in the sample and not how much.
Caution! Read this: Reagent liquids are caustic, and can burn through clothing and burn you. Always wear safety equipment (gloves/eye protection/etc.) when working with reagents. Dispose of reagents by covering the test with a small amount of baking soda (be careful of acid/base reactions, e.g. small exothermic reaction), then thoroughly wash the testing surface with soap and water.
Link to valuable testing information and charts from our friends at Dancesafe: https://dancesafe.org/testing-kit-instructions/
Reagent Testing Kits and their most common uses
Marquis: (Pronounced Mar-key) Marquis is the most common reagent test.
Marquis is especially useful as a presumptive test for “ecstasy”, i.e. MDMA, MDA, and MDE.
Marquis is also generally used as a presumptive test for 2C-B.
Link for purchasing Marquis kits: https://dancesafe.org/product/marquis-reagent-testing-kit/
Simon’s A/B: Simon’s is a two part test. Simon’s A is added to the sample first, Simon’s B is added for the reaction to occur.
Simon’s is often used as a secondary test to determine the difference between MDMA and MDA.
Simon’s can also differentiate between methamphetamine and regular amphetamine.
Simon’s should ideally be used after a marquis test.
Link for purchasing Simon’s kits: https://dancesafe.org/product/simons-reagent-testing-kit/