Contact: Cathy Jones c••••••••@••••••.ca
Objectives of the Requirement
The laboratory testing of fentanyl analogues will provide scientific confirmation whether the substances of interest activate the MOR, but also provide insight on their predicted biological effects. This will support ODPS’s regulatory interpretation of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act with respect to novel fentanyl analogues and other novel synthetic opioids. In addition, the information obtained will allow estimating the real-world potency of fentanyl analogues, which could be useful for the ODPS’s law enforcement partners.
Background and Specific Scope of the Requirement
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid analgesic with a preferential specificity for the µ-opioid receptor (MOR), as well as a distinctive biased signaling profile associated with abuse and overdose characteristics. Little information is known about the pharmacological effects of novel fentanyl analogues or novel synthetic opioids. This testing contract allows ODPS to gain valuable information related to these substances thus strengthening future regulatory decision making.
