Investigating the accuracy of fentanyl test strips and fentanyl in non-heroin drugs
Assessing fentanyl test strip use accuracy and fentanyl presence in the non-heroin drug supply
This study is looking at how well fentanyl test strips can find fentanyl in different drugs, not just heroin, and it's for people who use drugs to help keep them safe by understanding how common fentanyl contamination is.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10832621 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how accurately fentanyl test strips (FTS) can detect fentanyl in various drugs, particularly those that are not heroin. Participants will use FTS to test small samples of their drugs, providing insights into the prevalence of fentanyl contamination. The study aims to identify potential issues with FTS usage and interpretation, as well as to assess the extent of fentanyl presence in the non-heroin drug supply. By gathering data from people who use drugs, the research seeks to improve harm reduction strategies and inform public health responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who use drugs and are at risk of fentanyl exposure, particularly those using non-heroin substances.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use drugs or are not at risk of fentanyl exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the safety of drug use by providing accurate information about fentanyl contamination, potentially reducing overdose rates.
How similar studies have performed: While fentanyl test strips have been distributed widely, this research is novel in its focus on their accuracy and the prevalence of fentanyl in non-heroin drugs.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Thomas Jefferson University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reed, Megan — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Reed, Megan
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 below.