To save lives and help people who use drugs make informed decisions, a new Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) drug monitoring machine is now operational in Prince George, in partnership with Project POUNDS (Preventing Overdose UNdoing Stigma).
“BC is using every tool in our toolbox to address the ongoing public health emergency and prevent future deaths from the supply of toxic drugs,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions . “Drug screening technology has the power to reduce drug-related deaths and save lives. I am grateful that this cost-effective drug screening machine is coming to Prince George as an additional tool in our response to the drug poisoning crisis drugs”.
Drug testing is an evidence-based harm reduction tool that allows people to check what is in their drugs. Using the FTIR machine, trained staff at the POUNDS Project location in downtown Prince George will now be able to conduct advanced drug screenings in the community, including testing for fentanyl and benzos. The machine can test for a range of substances, including opioids, stimulants and other psychoactive drugs such as MDMA.
“Drug control is one of the many harm reduction tools we can use to help keep people in our communities safer. At The POUNDS Project, we strive to be a safe and inclusive space for all people who use drugs. This support is offered to occasional users, weekend warriors and people who use substances daily. People from all walks of life can visit Two Doors Down to use the new service.”
Drug screening services with the FTIR machine will be available six days a week. In the mornings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and at night from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday), at the POUNDS project, 1126 3rd Ave. Appointments can be made outside these hours by sending a text message or calling. 250-301-3285. Customers can use the drug screening service and use the OPS once the screening is done or leave samples and collect the results later.
How it works
FTIR analyzes drug samples by shining a light on them and measuring how that light is absorbed. The analysis can tell what is in the sample, including what the primary components of the substance are and also whether adulterants are present. The technician can also provide an estimate of the concentration levels of a substance.
Once the analysis is complete, the results are provided to the client along with information related to harm reduction to help them develop a safety plan to avoid overdose. Sample analysis can also improve the timeliness and accuracy of toxic drug alerts issued to communities, to create broader awareness of the specific substances that are flagged.
For more information on drug testing, see bc drug testing. See more information and resources about overdose prevention in the Northern Health region.