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This includes illicit drugs (cocaine, heroin, meth, etc.) as well as prescription medications (Xanax, Oxycodone, etc.). There’s a downside on the testing front – what we call the ‘chocolate chip cookie’ phenomenon. With counterfeit prescription drugs, not every pill is uniform – contrasting with what you would get at your pharmacy. Illicit manufacturers do not have the machinery or quality control that the pharmaceutical companies do. As such, some counterfeit tablets will have no fentanyl, some will have a little, and some will have enough to kill you. The same principle holds true if you buy an entire bottle of potentially counterfeit tablets – out of 20 pills, 10 might be lethal, while five have no fentanyl in them at all.
In recent years, the internet has become a convenient marketplace for purchasing a wide range of products. From clothing and electronics to groceries and prescription medications, it seems like you can find almost anything online. However, when it comes to powerful opioids like fentanyl, the situation becomes far more complex.
Fentanyl Analogs
The Dangers of Fentanyl
Friends, family, and others in the community can use the nasal spray versions of naloxone to save someone who is overdosing. Because of this, if you suspect someone has overdosed, the most important step to take is to call 911 so they can receive immediate medical attention. Once medical personnel arrive, they will administer naloxone if they suspect an opioid drug is involved. DanceSafe is an organization that promotes health and safety within the electronic music community. There are no negative side effects of using Naloxone and no potential for misuse or dependence. However, naloxone may put a person dependent on opioids into withdrawal, which can be a very painful and uncomfortable experience.
So while the serious issue of the Fentanyl crisis has touched us here in our community, we are probably better positioned than many in dealing with it. If you’re a veteran who uses opioids, ask your VA provider about prescribing naloxone, which is free. DAY Programs offers services to students who are concerned about their substance use or are required to complete an assessment or engage in treatment by the University’s disciplinary system. Programs include screenings for substance use, trainings, identity workshops, and more.
Fentanyl is an incredibly potent synthetic opioid pain medication that is typically prescribed to manage severe chronic pain. It is estimated to be about 100 times stronger than morphine and has gained notoriety due to its involvement in numerous overdose deaths.
- Fentanyl is more potent than other opioids, even in small quantities.
- Community partners later informed surveyors that the two pharmacies that engaged in FTS behaviors have ongoing partnerships with a local syringe service program, to offer these services.
- Based upon the evidence-based effectiveness of fentanyl test strips in reducing overdoses, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Medical Association endorse the use of test trips.
Due to its high potency, fentanyl carries a significant risk of misuse and addiction. Its effects on the central nervous system are intense, leading to a rapid onset of euphoria and sedation. However, these effects also make it highly dangerous and potentially lethal, especially when obtained from unreliable sources.
Illicitly Manufactured Fentanyl & Counterfeit Pills
Online Availability and Risks
While there is a plethora of prescription drugs available for purchase online, fentanyl stands out as an exception. The sale, distribution, and purchase of fentanyl without a valid prescription are illegal in most countries, including the United States.
The test strips can also be used to test very small samples or even the residue of the supply. Giving naloxone to people who use drugs, and their family and friends can help save a life. Both intranasal (into the nose) sprays and intramuscular (into the muscle) injections of naloxone are highly effective and available in easy-to-use options. With a fentanyl overdose, two or more doses of naloxone may need to be given. Fentanyl test strips are an important tool for identifying fentanyl in a pill or powder, which can help prevent an opioid-involved overdose. The successful bust won international praise but also drew attention to how easily synthetic opioids can be manufactured in small, clandestine spaces with rudimentary equipment.
Individual Risk factors include
Attempting to buy fentanyl online poses serious risks to your health and wellbeing. Illicit websites claiming to sell fentanyl may actually be scams or operate outside legal regulations. The substances they provide might be counterfeit, diluted, or contaminated, further exacerbating the potential dangers.
When the water evaporates and the pan is cool, you can scrape the residue off with a razor or other sharp item. If you’re using pills, you’ll need to crush a pill on a clean surface before dissolving it in 1 tablespoon of water. If you plan to use IV drugs, prepare the shot, set the needle aside, and add about one-fifth teaspoon of water to the spoon/cooker with the drug. Fentanyl test strips aren’t perfect, but most people find them easy to use. The best way to use them is to dissolve all the drugs you plan to use in water.
Legal Consequences
The consequences of attempting to buy fentanyl online illegally can be severe. Law enforcement agencies actively monitor the internet for illegal drug sales, and those involved can face criminal charges. Penalties for such offenses vary by jurisdiction but often include hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences.
Protecting Your Health and Safety
When it comes to obtaining prescription medications, it is crucial to follow the proper channels. This means consulting with a licensed healthcare professional who can evaluate your medical condition and prescribe suitable medications. Legitimate pharmacies, either local or online, require a valid prescription before dispensing controlled substances like fentanyl.
If you suspect someone you know may be misusing fentanyl or any other opioid, it is vital to seek help and support them in finding appropriate treatment options. Substance abuse can have devastating consequences, and early intervention can make a significant difference in saving lives.
Experts consider 2 mg of fentanyl to be lethal, but many counterfeit pills contain up to 5 mg (more than twice the lethal dose). Check out the image to the side for scale to see what 2 mg of fentanyl looks like. Colorado has seen an increase in fentanyl overdoses over the past year. Health Navigation Sessions are provided in both English and Spanish to promote harm-reduction strategies for gay men who do meth and who are concerned about the negative impact of methamphetamine use in their lives.
In Conclusion
Resources & Support
While you can purchase many things online, buying fentanyl through unofficial channels is highly dangerous and illegal. The potential risks to your health, legal status, and overall well-being far outweigh any perceived convenience. Prioritizing your safety should always be the top priority when considering any medication, especially potent opioids like fentanyl.