Introduction to RaDAR Program
The RaDAR program, which stands for Rapid Drug Analysis and Research, was developed by a research chemist named Ed Sisco and his team. They created methods for detecting trace amounts of drugs, explosives, and other dangerous materials. This technology, called DART (for “direct analysis in real time”) mass spectrometry, can detect even tiny traces of chemicals collected from an investigation site.
How the Technology Works
Essentially, Sisco’s lab fine-tuned the DART technology to enable the detection of tiny traces of chemicals. This means that nobody has to open a bag or handle unidentified powders; a usable residue sample can be obtained by simply swiping the outside of the bag. The technology can pick out trace amounts of dozens of adulterants that swirl through the street-drug supply and can make it more dangerous.
Impact of the RaDAR Program
The RaDAR program launched as a pilot in October 2021 and uncovered new, critical information almost immediately. Early analysis found xylazine—a veterinary sedative that’s been associated with gruesome wounds in users—in about 80% of opioid samples they collected. This was a significant finding, as xylazine is not a scheduled compound, but it leads to wounds that can lead to amputation, and it makes the other drugs more dangerous.
Expansion of the RaDAR Program
The RaDAR program has expanded to work with partners in public health, city and state law enforcement, forensic science, and customs agencies at about 65 sites in 14 states. Sisco’s lab processes 700 to 1,000 samples a month. About 85% come from public health organizations that focus on harm reduction. Results are shared at these collection points, which also collect survey data about the effects of the drugs.
Real-Life Applications
Jason Bienert, a wound-care nurse at Johns Hopkins, started participating in the RaDAR program in spring 2024. He says that xylazine hit like a storm in his area, and everyone he took care of wanted to know what was in their drugs. When the data started coming back, he says, “it almost became a race to see how many samples we could collect.” Bienert sent in about 14 samples weekly and created a chart on a dry-erase board, with drugs identified by the logos on their bags, sorted into columns according to the compounds found in them.
Conclusion
The RaDAR program is a significant step forward in the fight against drug abuse. By providing rapid and accurate analysis of street drugs, the program can help law enforcement and public health officials identify trends and patterns in drug use. This information can be used to develop targeted interventions and reduce the harm caused by drug abuse.
FAQs
- What is the RaDAR program?
The RaDAR program is a research initiative that uses advanced technology to analyze street drugs and identify the substances they contain. - How does the RaDAR program work?
The RaDAR program uses a technology called DART (for “direct analysis in real time”) mass spectrometry to detect tiny traces of chemicals in street drugs. - What kinds of substances can the RaDAR program detect?
The RaDAR program can detect a wide range of substances, including xylazine, fentanyl, and other adulterants that can make street drugs more dangerous. - How is the RaDAR program being used?
The RaDAR program is being used by law enforcement, public health officials, and harm reduction organizations to identify trends and patterns in drug use and develop targeted interventions. - What are the benefits of the RaDAR program?
The RaDAR program provides rapid and accurate analysis of street drugs, which can help reduce the harm caused by drug abuse and save lives.
