December 1, 2023
Drug Checking Quarterly Report (Q3 2022): Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
A partnership between the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH) has been established to accurately assess the drug supply in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Summary and Key Findings:

  • 344 samples were analyzed between January 1, 2023, and June 30, 2023.
  • N-Desethyl Isotonitazene (n=3) was detected in dope samples alongside fentanyl, xylazine, bromazolam, flubromazepam, and caffeine.
  • Bromazolam (n=2) was detected without opioids in purported dope samples.
  • Coke (n=6) & crack (n=4) samples contained fentanyl. One methamphetamine sample contained fentanyl; however, it was noted as known contamination.
  • Nearly all dope samples (99%) contained fentanyl and/or para-fluorofentanyl.
  • Over the last 12 months, the average amount of fentanyl in dope samples remained mostly consistent while the average amount of xylazine increased 34%.
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