Fentanyl cluster map

This limited study was not able to conclude on the occurrence of fentanyl in Europe, as only 14 out of 606 test strips were positive for fentanyl but none could be supported by confirmatory analysis.
However, the project made some valuable remarks regarding the need for:

• Further analysis on the practicality of fentanyl test strips and the limitations of fentanyl test strips when it comes to non-detection of other dangerous NPS, such as nitazenes, or false positive results for substances like MDMA and procaine.
• A framework where drug checking is allowed in Western Balkan countries. Without this, it is impossible to make statements on the presence of fentanyl or explore the possible advantage of fentanyl test strips as harm reduction tool. The fact that the harm reduction workers themselves cannot touch the substances and carry out the tests themselves also makes the work of interpretation of the results very difficult.
• As there is a high willingness to implement fentanyl test strips, further studies should be implemented looking into the response towards a positive result for fentanyl and in what format the fentanyl test strips could have a place within harm reduction. There is a need to assess how the strips will be used and interpreted in the lived contexts and everyday opioid use.

If you would like to read the full report, please contact margot.balcaen@sciensano.be