Hidden Fentanyl Can Kill Test Strips Can Help Make Drug Use Safer
Understanding the Risks and Legalities of Fentanyl
Because fentanyl is unable to be detected by sight, taste, smell, or touch, people taking drugs not purchased from a licensed pharmacy should always use fentanyl test strips. Fentanyl test strips do not provide information about the amount or strength of fentanyl in a drug supply. Fentanyl is a powerful, fast-acting opioid that increases the risk of overdose. Very often, it is mixed in with other drugs, such as heroin, coke, crack, and pressed pills, and is very difficult to detect.
Education about and access to harm-reduction materials like Fentanyl test strips change the behaviors of people who use drugs, therefore reducing risk. Measures like this are vital to fighting the Opioid epidemic, which in 2021 alone claimed over 8,200 Floridians. Deaths from accidental drug overdoses in Florida have increased by nearly 31% since 2019.
Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use. Fentanyl is safe when it’s prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed. You can poison yourself if you change the medicine to get a stronger or faster effect. People take fentanyl to help with pain (such as cancer pain) that other medicine has not been able to help with.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that poses significant health risks and potential legal issues. It is important to educate yourself about the implications of purchasing fentanyl.
IMF is a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the US, including Oregon. Peer provides safe, welcoming spaces for people to access support and health resources. The vending machines are stocked with naloxone, fentanyl test strips, as well as condoms, and other safer sex supplies. Illegally manufactured fentanyl is fueling the increase in drug overdoses in the U.S. It is often contained in illicit drugs without the user’s knowledge. It may be laced into other illegal street drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, fake opioid pills, or methamphetamine (“meth”).
- In Massachusetts, fentanyl was present in 93 percent of the opioid-related overdose deaths in 2022.
- Local Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs or OOPPs connect New Yorkers with naloxone, naloxone training, fentanyl test strips, and safe syringe access and disposal services.
- People who use substances are at a high risk of overdose if they unknowingly consume fentanyl or take it in larger amounts than they are used to.
- The brain and body develop a tolerance to opioids very quickly, meaning more amounts are needed to feel the same effect.
It can also be found in pills from nonmedical sources, pressed into counterfeit pills to look like prescription painkillers or benzodiazepines, such as Xanax® Klonopin®, and Valium®. 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. You can’t see, smell or taste fentanyl when it’s mixed with other drugs.
DHS also encourages hepatitis C and HIV screening as part of an ongoing drug user health initiative. Other research from Brown University showed that half of test strip users found fentanyl in their drug supply. Of those who detected fentanyl, more than 40% decided to use a smaller amount of the drugs or to go more slowly to reduce their risk of overdosing. A similar percentage chose to use their drugs with other people (instead of alone) so someone would be around to call 911 or give them naloxone (Narcan), if needed, to reverse an opioid overdose. They’re important because we live in an era of contaminated drug supply. The illicit drugs (meaning those that people buy outside of a pharmacy or from an unregulated source) have become incredibly contaminated.
What You Need to Know About Fentanyl
Fentanyl is primarily prescribed for severe pain management, particularly for patients with cancer or post-surgery recovery. However, due to its potency, it is often misused, leading to dangerous consequences.
- Potency: Fentanyl is estimated to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.
- Risks: It carries a high risk of overdose, especially if used improperly.
- Legality: In many places, fentanyl is illegal to buy without a prescription.
IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 26) was used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and means, were used to characterize the sample and variables of interest. Still, in some states, they continue to be illegal because they are considered “drug paraphernalia” under older drug laws. Fentanyl may also be cross-contaminating other drugs as they are stored or trafficked. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses. The Center offers a number of weekly ‘Living with HIV’ groups facilitated by mental health professionals from The Center’s Behavioral Health Services, as well as peer-to-peer led groups.
How Can I Buy Fentanyl Safely?
To understand how can I buy fentanyl safely, it’s crucial to follow legal procedures:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Speak with a doctor about your pain management needs.
- Prescription: If deemed necessary, a healthcare provider can prescribe fentanyl.
- Licensed Pharmacies: Purchase it from a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription.
- Follow Guidelines: Always adhere to the dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Alternatives to Fentanyl
If you are looking for pain management solutions, consider discussing alternative options with your healthcare provider:
- Non-opioid Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Physical Therapy: Engaging in therapy sessions to manage pain.
- Holistic Approaches: Options such as acupuncture or massage therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to buy fentanyl online?
No, unless it is from a legitimate pharmacy with a prescription, buying fentanyl online is illegal and unsafe.
What should I do if I suspect an overdose?
If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately. Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, slow breathing, or loss of consciousness.
Are there safe ways to use fentanyl?
If prescribed, the safest way to use fentanyl is to follow the prescribed dosage and guidelines closely.
Conclusion
Acquiring fentanyl should never be taken lightly. It is essential to adhere to legal guidelines, consult healthcare professionals, and explore safer alternatives. The risks associated with misusing fentanyl far outweigh any potential benefits.
