Abstract
Hundreds of new psychoactive substances (NPS) are identified annually on a global scale. Those substances originate from the alteration of the chemical structure of existing illicit drugs. With the significant increase in substances, there is a need for research and development of rapid and low-cost detection methods. This review article exhibits classical and contemporary colorimetric methods for detecting seized drugs on a national scale, from 2015 to 2020, and on a state scale, from 2008 to 2017. The consolidated presumptive colorimetric tests for classic drugs show promising results for detecting new psychoactive substances. Additionally, new methods are being developed for the detection of these substances with greater specificity and sensitivity. That way, the development and adaptation of colorimetric methods are a suitable proposal for the detection and identification of classic and contemporary illicit drugs.