Health Canada
Understanding Fentanyl and its Legal Status
Keep track of how much fentanyl is left so you will know if any is missing. Store fentanyl at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Fentanyl comes as four different transmucosal products and several other types of products. The medication in each product is absorbed differently by the body, so one product cannot be substituted for any other fentanyl product. If you are switching from one product to another, your doctor will prescribe a dose that is best for you.
He says he has never seen anything like the boom in fentanyl cases here in the San Joaquin Valley. For the last two years, he has been a part of the Fentanyl Overdose Resolution Team or F.O.R.T. with the DEA Task Force. According to the Department of Justice, F.O.R.T. is a multiagency team composed of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Fresno Police Department. There is a fatal overdose in Colorado every 4 hours, 45 minutes and 9 seconds. Stop the Clock connects community members with pharmacies and other sites that offer naloxone.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, often used medically for pain management, especially in cancer patients or those undergoing major surgeries. Its potency is significantly higher than that of morphine, making it a common target for misuse and abuse.
Since 2019, 134,280 doses of NARCAN® have been distributed at no cost through community agencies to people who use opioids or drugs that could be mixed with opioids, and their families and friends. So far this year, more than 5,000 overdoses have been reversed with NARCAN® distributed through this program. NARCAN® also can be purchased at more than 500 pharmacies without a prescription under a standing order. Locations where NARCAN® is available can be found on the DHS website.
Since then, law enforcement seizures of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl have grown dramatically in Oregon. The amount of seized fentanyl in Oregon’s high intensity drug trafficking areas (HIDTA) increased from 690 dosage units (counterfeit pills) in 2018 to more than 2 million in 2022. Fentanyl has now surpassed methamphetamine as the most frequent drug involved in overdose deaths in Oregon.
With the increasing concerns surrounding its misuse, many people may question: can I buy fentanyl without a prescription? This article delves into the implications surrounding this question and provides crucial information regarding the legality and safety of purchasing fentanyl.
These behavioral treatment approaches are effective, especially when used with medications. The most effective treatment for opioid addiction include medications. There are three FDA-approved medications for the treatment of fentanyl addiction; methadone and buprenorphine are the most effective and have been shown to save lives. When given correctly and quickly, naloxone can reverse a fentanyl overdose and can therefore be lifesaving. Another risk factor for overdose is when someone stops using fentanyl and then starts using it again. After a period of not using fentanyl, a person’s tolerance decreases.
The Legality of Fentanyl
Fentanyl use can increase your risk of overdose, especially if you do not regularly use opioids. Anyone who uses drugs that may contain fentanyl, even occasionally, may be at risk of overdose. And for fentanyl users receiving treatment for their addiction, doctors must prescribe higher doses of medications like suboxone and methadone to control their withdrawals. Additionally, Outreach, Screening, Assessment and Referral (OSAR) providers offer Texans comprehensive services for fentanyl and other substance use.
Start with a very small dose every time you use something that could be contaminated with fentanyl. Because fentanyl is often mixed in with other substances in large batches, the amount present in a single pill or drug can vary widely. Certified providers can order up to 1,200 fentanyl test strips and up to 600 xylazine test strips or set up a naloxone ordering account using the provider and individual request form.
In most countries, including the United States, fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. This means that:
- It has a recognized medical use.
- It possesses a high potential for abuse and addiction.
- It can only be prescribed by a licensed medical professional.
Given this classification, it is illegal to buy fentanyl without a prescription. The drug can only be obtained through a pharmacy after receiving a valid prescription from a healthcare provider.
- They killed more than 19,000 Americans in 2016, topping heroin (15,000) and prescription opioids (14,000) for the first time.
- Tell your provider if you have a history of gastrointestinal (GI) problems (such as GI obstruction, paralytic ileus, biliary tract disease, or pancreatitis).
- Unlike injection drug users, she was abusing her doctor-prescribed fentanyl patches.
- British Columbia declared the overdose crisis a public health emergency in 2016.
- This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an “as is”, “where is” basis.
The Risks of Purchasing Fentanyl Without a Prescription
Attempting to acquire fentanyl without a prescription poses significant health and legal risks, including:
- Health Risks: Fentanyl is extremely potent and can cause respiratory distress, overdose, and even death, especially if used improperly or mixed with other substances.
- Legal Consequences: Buying fentanyl illegally could lead to criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment.
- Quality Control: Illegally obtained fentanyl may be counterfeit or mixed with dangerous substances, increasing the risk of overdose.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For individuals in need of pain management, several alternatives exist that are safer and legally accessible:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always discuss pain management options with your doctor.
- Consider Non-Opioid Pain Relievers: There are various over-the-counter medications that can effectively manage pain.
- Explore Physical Therapy: Techniques such as physical therapy, acupuncture, or chiropractic care can provide effective pain relief.
FAQs
Can I purchase fentanyl online?
No, purchasing fentanyl online without a prescription is illegal and highly unsafe. Legitimate online pharmacies require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
What should I do if I have a prescription for fentanyl?
If prescribed fentanyl, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and fill your prescription at a licensed pharmacy. Never share your medication with others.
What are the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose?
Symptoms of an overdose can include:
- Extreme drowsiness or inability to wake up
- Slow or difficult breathing
- Cold and clammy skin
- Purple or blue coloration of the lips or fingers
How can I get help for opioid addiction?
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider or a local addiction support group for guidance and resources.
In conclusion, it is crucial to prioritize safety and legality when considering pain management options. Understanding the risks associated with buying fentanyl without a prescription can help individuals make informed decisions and seek appropriate medical care for their needs.
