Evaluating the Sensitivity, Selectivity, and Cross-Reactivity of Lateral Flow Immunoassay Xylazine Test Strips

This study underscores the variability in performance among commercially available XTS, highlighting their implications for use in harm reduction and forensic settings. While XTS are capable of detecting xylazine at low concentrations, the potential for false-positive results due to cross-reactivity with other drugs necessitates caution in their interpretation. Hence, XTS may serve as a viable harm reduction tool, provided that their cross-reactivity limitations are thoroughly documented and they are incorporated as part of a broader harm reduction strategy.