A new method could spot fentanyl variants no one has cataloged yet

A new method could help law enforcement identify fentanyl variants that haven't been cataloged yet, using a reference library that doesn't rely on measurements of known molecules. This approach aims to stop drug traffickers who create novel fentanyls to evade detection.

News Chemistry A new method could spot fentanyl variants no one has cataloged yet Underground labs invent new fentanyls faster than forensic labs can keep up Authorities believe these blister packs contain illicit fentanyl. Drug traffickers can skirt the law by cooking up novel varieties authorities haven't cataloged. A new reference library that doesn't rely on measurements of known molecules could help law enforcement end the game of cat and mouse. ANGELA WEISS/AFP/Getty Images By Rachel Berkowitz June 12, 2026 at 1:00 pm Share this:Share Share via email Opens in new window Email Share on Facebook Opens in new window Facebook Share on Reddit Opens in new window Reddit Share on X Opens in new window X Print Opens in new window Print Listen to this article This is a human-written story voiced by AI.