# USC creates Lollylab lollipop prototype sensor to detect acetaminophen in saliva

- Published: 2026-11-07 09:23 UTC
- Section: Life & Health › Medicine
- Tags: Lollylab prototype, saliva sensor, acetaminophen detection, University of Southern California, laser-induced graphene, oral diagnostic device
- URL: https://realtech.media/news/rt-fa43ad0b6778b67033a296cb_usc_creates_lollylab/

**The lollipop-shaped oral device uses a graphene sensor to measure acetaminophen levels in saliva within two minutes, offering a child-friendly alternative to blood tests.**

![USC creates Lollylab lollipop prototype sensor to detect acetaminophen in saliva](https://realtech.media/media/2026/11/772d92a508b43b60.jpg)
*https://www.scientificanimations.com, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0*

Researchers at the University of Southern California have developed Lollylab, an experimental oral sampling device designed in the shape of a lollipop to detect acetaminophen levels in saliva, as reported by New Atlas [1]. The tool offers an alternative non-invasive testing method, especially useful for pediatric care, where accidental dosing mistakes of common over-the-counter pain and flu medications can lead to liver damage.

The system consists of two snap-together plastic pieces featuring rounded tops and stems. The rounded head includes small holes and is coated with an edible, peach-flavored red candy shell that encourages the subject to lick the device to stimulate and collect fluid. The interior glass-fiber stem is lined with paper, allowing roughly 0.3 milliliters—about six drops—of saliva to flow down to the base in roughly 60 seconds [1].

## Graphene sensing mechanism

Acetaminophen was specifically targeted because its concentration in oral fluid correlates closely with levels found in the bloodstream [1]. At the bottom of the device, the fluid meets a sensor equipped with an electrode made from laser-induced graphene. 

When saliva carrying the drug contacts the graphene electrode, a chemical reaction occurs at its surface [1]. This reaction generates an electrical signal that quantifies the concentration of acetaminophen present in the sample.

## Initial prototype testing

The research team evaluated the diagnostic prototype using both artificial fluids and real human saliva samples [1]. In a preliminary evaluation involving six adult participants who ingested acetaminophen, the device successfully detected the substance in less than two minutes [1]. 

Participants noted that using the device was more comfortable than standard swab-based saliva collection. The system remains an early-stage experimental prototype, and future work will focus on expanding human cohort sizes and adapting the sensor to detect additional biomarkers in saliva [1].

## Sources

1. [New Atlas](https://newatlas.com/good-thinking/lollylab-lollipop-medication-sensor)

---

Source: RealTech, realtech.media — https://realtech.media/news/rt-fa43ad0b6778b67033a296cb_usc_creates_lollylab/