Drug Checking

What are drug test strips?

Drug test strips are a harm reduction tool that allow you to check a drug for the presence of a single substance (e.g., fentanyl). Drug checking helps people who use drugs make safer, more informed decisions about drug use.

Fentanyl and xylazine test strips are commonly used drug checking tools and are distributed in communities across Canada.

Where can you get drug test strips?

Take-home fentanyl and xylazine test strips are currently being distributed by the following services: the Van Needle Syringe Program, Public Health Services Street Health Clinics, Public Health Services Sexual Health Clinics and Alcohol, Drugs and Gambling Services.

The Van Needle Syringe page has more information on where to get drug test strips in Hamilton.

How do you use drug test strips?

Fentanyl test strips indicate whether or not fentanyl is present in a drug sample by providing a positive or negative result. By dissolving a tiny drug sample in water, the drug test strip can be dipped into the solution and a result will be available at 5 min.

Follow the steps provided in the visual instructions linked below:

• Download visual instructions for the use of fentanyl test strips.(PDF, 249.42 KB)
• Visit the BTNX website for detailed instructions on the use of fentanyl test strips. 

Xylazine test strips work similarly to fentanyl test strips, but instead detect xylazine in a drug sample. Xylazine (or “tranq”) has been found in the unregulated opioid drug supply and can be life threatening.

Follow the steps provided in the visual instructions linked below: