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Drug Information
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Risks
- In New York, fentanyl test strips are becoming more common as a way to fight an overdose crisis, and more states are pushing to legalize them.
- In addition, we can often refer you to facilities that charge on a sliding fee scale or accept Medicare or Medicaid.
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- Overdose Lifeline is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities affected by the disease of substance use disorder.
- According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), counterfeit pills are more lethal than ever before.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than morphine and heroin. It is primarily used in medical settings for pain management. However, due to its potency, it has become a common substance of abuse, leading to a national crisis of addiction and overdoses.
Here’s some information so you can stay informed, aware, and safer around fentanyl and other opioids. Fentanyl is the main driver of opioid overdose deaths in Washington state. In 2022, the drug was involved in 90% of fatal opioid overdoses in the state and 65% of all overdose deaths, according to the University of Washington’s Addictions, Drug and Alcohol Institute. This is not all the information you need to know about fentanyl test strips for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your healthcare provider’s advice. Review and follow the full test strip information before use, as directions may vary among tests. Discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
Only two pharmacies currently distributed FTS instructions and counseled on how to use FTS. 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. Pharmacists were overwhelmingly willing to refer patients to harm reduction organizations for FTS (86.2%), with four pharmacists (0.7%) noting they already referred patients to harm reduction organizations.
It’s been a great resource to be able to offer those to people and to start a conversation about understanding contamination and the risks of unintentional overdose. Right now, we exist in an era where the illicit drug supply in this country is unregulated, contaminated, and often poisonous. One way to keep people safe is to give them knowledge of what it is that they’re using. Fentanyl test strips are not a panacea, but they are a way for someone to know if fentanyl is present or not.
Because the test strips are highly sensitive, a minimal amount of drug residue is sufficient to obtain a result. The test strip is then set on a flat surface until results appear, typically within 5 minutes. One line indicates fentanyl is present in the sample; two lines indicate a negative result. BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) – Fentanyl is about 80 times more potent than morphine and bout 40 times stronger than heroin. The street version of the drug is being blamed on an increase in overdoses that in some cases, can take as many as six injections of Naloxone to save the person’s life.
Where Can I Buy Fentanyl?
The move to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips comes after an alarming spike in the number of overdose deaths in recent years. Fentanyl test strips, which are backed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have been shown in numerous studies to reduce the risk of overdose. Naloxone and fentanyl test strips are available at many pharmacies with no Dr. visits required. Naloxone is recommended for anyone with opioids in their home. Click here for information on how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Naloxone. Opioids are a class of drugs that alleviate pain and may produce a pleasurable effect on the brain and body.
Communities of people who use drugs have risen up to figure out pragmatic solutions to save the lives of their neighbors, community members, people they care about. The fact that naloxone programs have been so effective proves this. Harm reduction at its core is about radical love and acceptance for another human being. And yet as a concept, it’s gotten attached to these misperceptions.
When considering the question, where can I buy fentanyl? it is crucial to prioritize safety and legality. Here are the primary avenues:
- Pharmacies: Fentanyl is available legally only through prescription in licensed pharmacies. A healthcare provider must evaluate the necessity of this powerful medication.
- Healthcare Providers: Patients in need of fentanyl for pain management can obtain a prescription from their doctor. It’s essential to discuss any concerns or previous substance use issues with the physician.
- Online Pharmacies: Caution is advised when considering online sources. Only buy from reputable online pharmacies that require a prescription, as purchasing from illegal sources can lead to dangerous consequences.
- Hospitals and Clinics: In a medical setting, fentanyl can be administered under the supervision of healthcare professionals, ensuring its safe use.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Given the risks associated with fentanyl, it is vital to understand the legal implications of acquiring this substance:
- Prescription Requirement: Due to its classification as a Schedule II controlled substance, fentanyl can only be dispensed with a valid prescription.
- Consequences of Illegal Purchase: Obtaining fentanyl without a prescription can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
- Risk of Overdose: The potency of fentanyl poses a high risk for overdose, especially if obtained from unregulated sources.
FAQs About Fentanyl
Q: Can fentanyl be bought over the counter?
A: No, fentanyl is not available over the counter and requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Q: Is it safe to buy fentanyl online?
A: Caution is warranted when purchasing fentanyl online. Only purchase from verified online pharmacies that require a prescription to avoid counterfeit products.
Q: What should I do if I suspect someone is abusing fentanyl?
A: If you suspect someone is misusing fentanyl, encourage them to seek professional help immediately. Contact healthcare providers or local addiction support services for assistance.
Conclusion
Where can I buy fentanyl is a question that underscores the importance of responsible use. If you or a loved one is considering fentanyl for pain management, consult a healthcare provider to discuss the best and safest options available.
