Evaluating a program that tests illicit drugs to help prevent overdoses.
Official title: Evaluation of Drug Checking as a Novel Intervention to Address the Opioid Overdose Crisis Attributable to Fentanyl and its Analogues
Funded at University of British Columbia · NIH-10676189 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a program in British Columbia that lets people test their drugs for dangerous substances like fentanyl, helping them make safer choices and reduce the risk of overdose.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of British Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Vancouver, Canada) |
| Project start | September 30, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $494,190 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA052381-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10676189 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use illicit drugs and are at risk of overdose, particularly those in British Columbia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use illicit drugs or are not located in the study area may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a drug checking program in British Columbia, Canada, where individuals can have their illicit drugs tested for harmful substances like fentanyl. By providing users with accurate information about the composition of their drugs, the program aims to promote safer drug use and reduce the risk of overdose. The study will rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention in changing behaviors among people who use drugs, potentially leading to life-saving decisions. The approach includes both rapid testing and laboratory analysis to ensure reliable results.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce opioid overdose deaths by informing drug users about the contents of their substances.
How similar studies have gone: Similar drug checking programs in Europe have shown success in reducing risks associated with illicit drug use, indicating potential for positive outcomes in this novel North American context.
Where this research is happening
-
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, Canada Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ti, Lianping — University of British Columbia
- Study coordinator: Ti, Lianping
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.