Fentanyl Test Strips: A Harm Reduction Strategy
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means that it has a high potential for abuse and is available only through prescription. However, despite its legal status, fentanyl is often obtained illegally and used for non-medical purposes.
- Fentanyl test strips were a desired harm reduction tool by many participants who used stimulants.
- This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
- Moreover, program staff will need to educate people about how opioids effect the body and how opioids are different from the embodied experiences of other drugs they may be used to.
- You can become mentally and physically dependent on fentanyl.
- It is important to use, store and dispose of prescription pain medication safely to prevent opioid misuse.
Where Do People Buy Fentanyl Illegally?
Illegally obtained fentanyl can be found in various places, including the following:
STEP 1: Preparing And Diluting Your Drugs
- The black market: Fentanyl is often sold on the black market, either in its pure form or mixed with other drugs, such as heroin or cocaine. It can be purchased from drug dealers, street vendors, or online marketplaces that sell illegal drugs.
- The dark web: The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and is accessible only through specialized software, such as Tor. It is a popular place for buying and selling illegal drugs, including fentanyl.
- Social media platforms: Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, have become popular places for buying and selling illegal drugs, including fentanyl. Sellers use coded language and private messages to communicate with potential buyers.
For this reason, we recommend the individual seek medical attention to ensure they are in the company of someone with additional naloxone in case a second overdose occurs. It’s also important for the person experiencing an overdose not to take any more drugs or alcohol within (at least) a three hour period. If you are unable to seek medical assistance, and can not stay with the person yourself, ensure they are in the company of an individual who is aware of the situation and has more naloxone. Use this state-based locator to find a pharmacy, clinic, health department, or community based organization in your area that provides naloxone distribution.
Is It Safe to Buy Fentanyl Illegally?
No, it is not safe to buy fentanyl illegally. Fentanyl is a highly potent drug that can cause serious harm or even death if it is not used correctly. Illegally obtained fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, which can increase the risk of overdose. In addition, buying drugs illegally can lead to arrest, fines, and other legal consequences.
Opioid Facts
FAQs About Buying Fentanyl
Can I buy fentanyl online legally?
No, you cannot buy fentanyl online legally. Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means that it is only available through prescription. Buying fentanyl online without a prescription is illegal and can lead to serious legal consequences.
Is it safe to buy fentanyl online?
No, it is not safe to buy fentanyl online. Illegally obtained fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, which can increase the risk of overdose. In addition, buying drugs online can be risky, as there is no way to know for sure what you are getting or who you are dealing with.
Test Drug Supply
How can I tell if fentanyl is pure?
It’s Not Your Fault (NACoA) (PDF | 12 KB)Assures teens with parents who abuse alcohol or drugs that, “It’s not your fault!” and that they are not alone. Encourages teens to seek emotional support from other adults, school counselors, and youth support groups such as Alateen, and provides a resource list. We may ask for your zip code or other pertinent geographic information in order to track calls being routed to other offices or to accurately identify the local resources appropriate to your needs.
It is difficult to tell if fentanyl is pure just by looking at it. The only way to know for sure is to have it tested in a laboratory. It is important to remember that even pure fentanyl is highly potent and can cause serious harm or even death if it is not used correctly.
What should I do if I or someone I know has overdosed on fentanyl?
According to the report, most of this fentanyl originates in China. China has cracked down on fentanyl and some of its subtypes, or analogues, but the online dealers often tweak the formulas of their drugs slightly to stay ahead of bans. For example, when China announced it would ban one fentanyl product, called U-47700, on July 1, one fentanyl dealer advertised a “hot sale” of the product through June. “All must go till 1 of July,” the “special offer” read, according to the report. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products.
If you or someone you know has overdosed on fentanyl, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or your local emergency number right away. If you have naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can reverse an opioid overdose, administer it as soon as possible. Naloxone is available without a prescription in many states.
How can I get help for fentanyl addiction?
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, there is help available. Contact your healthcare provider or a local addiction treatment center for information and resources. Treatment for opioid addiction often involves medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapy.
Definitely worth spending a few bucks to potentially save your life. Hard reduction first and testing for fent these days is unfortunately the world we live in. We are humbled that our campus resides upon sacred lands that since time immemorial have sustained the Mechoopda people and continue to do so today. For free fentanyl test strip kits, stop by our office at Éstom Jámani Hall 150p or the Wellcat Health Center Pharmacy, and request a kit, no questions asked. In its prescription form, fentanyl is known by such names as Actiq®, Duragesic®, and Sublimaze®.
In conclusion, buying fentanyl illegally is not safe and can lead to serious harm or legal consequences. If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction treatment center.
