Next, the electrochemical strip analyses the chemicals in the sample. The carbon working electrode is treated with a stabilising room temperature ionic liquid which helps attract fentanyl to the electrode surface. The sensors’ electrodes are screen-printed onto polyethylene terephthalate sheets, using ink embedded with carbon or silver/silver chloride. They look a little like a transparent sheet of stamps, with ten sensors printed per strip. The individual disposable sensor strips are about 3 x 1cm. What’s the science behind the speedy sensor strip? In fact, we have the technology to pick up low micromolar concentrations of fentanyl in common cutting agents found in illicit drug formulas like heroin. This technology helps first responders to identify whether a person/object has been in contact with the most miniscule amounts of fentanyl. Having a portable fentanyl detecting system means first responders can quickly and safely identify what they’re dealing with on the spot, and react accordingly. That’s time-consuming and requires expensive equipment. Traditionally, fentanyl detection has happened in a forensic lab. In breaking news, we have worked with UCSD to help create disposable electrochemical strips that detect the presence of fentanyl. There is evidence that first responders could face a moderate risk of harm through direct contact with the substance, so safety is a concern. It resulted in 125 people accidentally dying from exposure to the drug.Īll of this also means an increase in fentanyl exposure for ambulance officers, paramedics, police and other front-line personnel who respond to drug-related situations. In 2002, a fentanyl analogue aerosol was used to subdue a Moscow hostage situation. This surge in use was confirmed by a 2018 national wastewater drug monitoring program. The drug was listed in Australia’s Annual Overdose Report as a major factor driving a rapid increase of accidental opioid-related deaths since 2011. Deaths from fentanyl increased 1800 per cent in 15 years in Australia. And here in Australia, there has been an alarming increase in the number of accidental fentanyl-related deaths in recent years. And if you get the dosage wrong, this highly potent drug is a killer.įentanyl has now become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. It’s inexpensive to make and easily combined with other drugs, making it a prime candidate for misuse. It’s 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, and it’s misuse is having serious consequences in Australia.įentanyl is a highly-addictive prescription chronic pain killer, and acute analgesic.
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