About the project DrugsInfoSite

The Drugs Info Site project, implemented in collaboration with the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague (UCT), the Third Faculty of Medicine at Charles University (3FM CU), and specialized outreach facilities across the Czech Republic, aims to minimize the risks associated with the use of psychoactive substances. This initiative, approved by the Office of the Government of the Czech Republic as part of the New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) Info Program (Project No. AA-07-20), facilitates the active collection and laboratory analysis of substance samples available in the Czech Republic. This enables us to identify and warn against particularly hazardous substances, track the emergence of new psychoactive substances, and respond to current trends and risks in accordance with European regulations (EU 2017/2101 EMCDDA).

NPSs are primarily synthetic compounds that emerge on the market as alternatives to already known illegal drugs, often with unknown effects and risks. These substances are synthesised to circumvent legislation and frequently mimic the effects of traditional psychoactive substances, such as stimulants, hallucinogens or opioids. Although they may appear to be 'legal' alternatives, their safety is not guaranteed and their health risks can be serious.

Currently, the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) is monitoring approximately 900 different NPS, with dozens of new compounds being identified each year. Among them, synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl derivatives, pose a significant risk due to their high toxicity and overdose potential. The rapid market evolution and easy accessibility of these substances, often through the internet or darknet, require swift responses and effective international cooperation. The Drugs Info Site project actively contributes to data collection and analysis, thereby enhancing awareness and public health protection in the Czech Republic and across Europe.

The active collection of samples from users and their laboratory analysis are key tools for the rapid detection and understanding of the composition of substances circulating on the market. This approach allows us to identify dangerous and potentially toxic components that could cause serious health issues or even endanger users lives. Through detailed chemical analysis, the Drugs Info Site project provides up-to-date information on the composition and risks of specific substances, issues public warnings about emerging threats, and supplies valuable data to experts and healthcare institutions. In this way, the project contributes to health protection and risk reduction associated with the use of psychoactive substances.

Analysis results are made available through a unique four-digit code, which each sample provider receives after completing an anonymous questionnaire about the substance. This system ensures secure and confidential access to crucial information about the substance’s composition and potential health risks. All results and other key insights related to harm reduction activities will be regularly published in the Drugs Info Site database. Through this database, sample providers and the general public will have access to real-time warnings and updates, helping to enhance safety and awareness.