As fentanyl, xylazine, and other dangerous substances are increasingly found in the drug supply, test strips that can detect these substances can be an important tool to reduce the risk for overdose.
Research shows that when people use test strips, they are more likely to change their behavior, reducing the risk of an overdose. They may choose not to use a particular batch, use less of the substance or more slowly, use substances with other people around who can offer help if needed, and have naloxone on hand.
However, several states criminalize test strips as illegal drug paraphernalia, limiting their availability. Ask your Senators to support the Ensuring Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act to allow individuals in all states to have and use test strips to detect the presence of fentanyl, xylazine, and other deadly substances. People should not be denied access to life-saving tools or fear criminal penalties for using them.
