© dpa
Drugs in Berlin often contain unexpected admixtures, including potentially dangerous substances.
This was the result of an analysis of samples from the Berlin drug check programme. The Charité and the Institute for Addiction Research in Frankfurt am Main scientifically monitored the project for 30 weeks, according to the Berlin health authorities.
530 people took part and submitted a total of 1,120 samples. The result: only around 45 per cent contained the expected active ingredient. Unexpected admixtures were detected in the remaining samples, some of which contained potentially dangerous substances. The results had a visible effect on consumption. According to the health authority, study participants whose drugs contained unexpected substances were five times more likely to refrain from taking the drug than others. If a drug was found to have a higher concentration of the active ingredient than expected, those affected often reduced the dose.
According to the health administration, the change in consumer behaviour shows that the free drug check can reduce health risks. "The high level of acceptance of the service among users underlines its relevance," said Health Senator Ina Czyborra (SPD). 99.4 per cent of study participants rated the project as useful and would use it again. 73 per cent had previously had no contact with the addiction support system.
Since summer 2023, drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, and speed can be tested in three counselling centres. According to the administration, 866 people took advantage of the service in 2024 and submitted 1,790 samples. The demand was significantly higher, but not all of them could be served due to a lack of capacity.