A transdisciplinary initiative to provide early insights into Kentucky's street drug supply through the analysis of drug residue from used syringes.
What does the University of Kentucky Harm Reduction Hub Do?
The University of Kentucky Harm Reduction Hub (UK HRH) is an initiative that brings together academic and community-based scientists and harm reductionists to provide early insights into Kentucky’s street drug supply by analyzing residue in used syringes. While based at the University, the UK HRH is a community service first and foremost, aimed at providing information about the changing street drug supply to people who use drugs and the people/programs that serve them.
What is Syringe Residue Checking?
With a dedicated drug analysis lab and staff, we utilize mass spectrometry to test residue in syringes obtained from partner harm reduction agencies in the state and perform real-time monitoring of emerging drug threats. Syringe residue testing analyzes trace amounts of drugs left in used syringes to detect new and emerging adulterants – such as xylazine, BTMPS, or medetomidine.
Why it Matters?
The UK HRH’s work improves the availability of timely and accurate information about the local drug supply, which simultaneously expands and strengthens harm reduction services in the state. Syringe residue testing provides rapid, localized insights into emerging drug contaminants, empowering harm reduction organizations to adapt their services to meet community-specific needs, especially in counties with high overdose rates. In addition, healthcare providers benefit from real-time data on emerging contaminants, allowing them to adjust treatment and withdrawal management protocols, improve overdose response, and enhance tailored care for people who use drugs
Join a growing network of harm reductionists, scientists, and care providers using syringe residue testing to stay ahead of shifting drug trends.
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