New drug safety era: Transparency’s portable test kits target every substance
Building on over a decade of harm reduction work, Transparency aims to empower consumers and raise awareness about drug adulteration. The Bunk Police is a team of dedicated individuals working towards the goal of minimizing risk in drug culture, and pushing to lower the rates of overdose and drug-related fatalities.
"Transparency is the natural evolution of our mission," says Adam Auctor, founder and CEO of Transparency. This new organization plans to expand into additional at-risk markets, release innovative harm reduction tools, and launch a new line of affordable test kits.
The necessity for such initiatives is underscored by the rising number of drug-related deaths among U.S. adults aged 18-45, largely due to dangerous adulterants like fentanyl. According to Transparency, 25% of Americans struggled to afford their medications last year, with 8% turning to unregulated online pharmacies or purchasing medications abroad. This trend has made consumers of both recreational and prescription drugs vulnerable to counterfeit products.
Destigmatize drug testing
"Substance test kits save lives, but public awareness remains low," Auctor states, emphasizing the need to destigmatize drug testing and increase education. Although test kits are available online, they are often inaccessible at traditional retail channels such as pharmacies, head shops, and convenience stores. Transparency aims to address this gap by making test kits more accessible, portable, and affordable.
Auctor has self-funded $1 million in research to create the world’s largest substance reaction library. This extensive research supports Transparency's new AI-powered Harm Reduction app, which helps customers use test kits accurately and interpret their results effectively.
"Everyone has the right to safe, tested substances," Auctor asserts. Transparency envisions a future where test kits are as common as at-home COVID tests, providing a critical defense against drug adulteration. The organization aims to make these kits widely available to anyone who needs them.
Exposing the dangers of adulterated drugs
The launch of Transparency also marks the continuation of the Bunk Police’s investigative media presence. The organization has released a new documentary, 'Poison Pills,' which features undercover investigations of licensed Mexican pharmacies selling dangerous, laced pharmaceuticals. The documentary includes hidden-camera footage of fentanyl pills being sold as legitimate pain pills, a pharmacist offering to sell tens of thousands of pills, advice on how to use veterinary ketamine, and a threat to kill Auctor.
"We believe our work is crucial in exposing the dangers posed by adulterated drugs," Auctor explains. 'Poison Pills' also features interviews with industry experts and government officials, highlighting the results of Transparency's pill testing.
Transparency's mission extends beyond just providing test kits. The organization is committed to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring public health safety. By expanding its reach and offering innovative solutions, Transparency aims to make a significant impact in the harm reduction space.
