Testing drugs for the presence of fentanyl using fentanyl test strips can lower overdose risk. Learn more about fentanyl, how dangerous it is, how to use fentanyl test strips, and their limitations. Please help keep our LGBTQ community safe by learning about fentanyl.
- Each bag can deactivate and destroy up to 45 pills, 6 ounces of liquid, or 6 patches.
- FTS are commonly distributed by harm reduction organizations, with research indicating over 77% of syringe services programs offering them in 2019 [11].
- Look for information at Indiana Addiction Treatment or ask your healthcare provider for treatment and referral services available in your area.
- If your agency is providing free fentanyl test strips, let us know.
- Try to keep wounds covered and wash them regularly with soap and water.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically for pain management, but unfortunately, it has also become a popular drug of abuse. Due to its potency, fentanyl can be extremely dangerous and even deadly if misused.
We Tested Three Drug-checking Technologies
Regardless of test results, start low, go slow, have naloxone/Narcan nearby and don’t use alone. Be with someone who can call 911 in the event of an overdose. Students at CSU can receive medication assistance during the recovery process from abuse of heroin, pain medication, or other forms of opioid use. 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.
Online Sources
Life Work
One of the most common places where people try to buy fentanyl is on the dark web. There are underground websites that sell a variety of illicit drugs, including fentanyl. However, purchasing drugs from these sources is not only illegal but also highly risky as you have no way of knowing the purity or strength of the substance you are buying.
Local Drug Dealers
Instead of blaming others, let’s work together to end accidental overdoses. “Overdose” simply means taking too much of a drug, and it is always accidental. Even daily opioid users who know that fentanyl is in their product have no way of knowing the amount. Don’t leave your drugs in the oven for too long after they’re dry.
Another option for buying fentanyl is through local drug dealers. These individuals may sell a variety of drugs, including fentanyl, to customers looking for a quick high. However, buying drugs from street dealers is also incredibly dangerous as you have no way of knowing what exactly you are putting into your body.
Prescription
Will They Save My Loved One’s Life?
People who use drugs that may contain Fentanyl should always carry or have access to Narcan, the lifesaving Opioid overdose drug also known as Naloxone. Narcan can be found in local pharmacies across the state and is available to anyone over 18 at no cost. On Saturday, June 28, Florida joined more than 30 other states that have moved to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips, in what many advocates say is a long overdue step toward fighting drug overdoses. The bill, known as Senate Bill 164, was part of a group of 8 other bills sent to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. Sponsored by Sen. Tina Polsky-D, Boca Raton, the bill passed unanimously in both chambers after years of similar bills being shot down during the last weeks of the session.
If you are in need of fentanyl for legitimate medical purposes, the safest and legal way to obtain it is through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. This ensures that you are receiving the appropriate dosage and that the medication is obtained from a reputable source.
Naloxone can reverse a fentanyl overdose, although in some cases it may take more doses because fentanyl is so potent. You should also call 911, just like for any medical emergency, so extra help is on the way. Fentanyl overdose often comes on much faster and stronger than a typical opioid overdose. In some cases, a person’s chest may become very stiff (called “chest wall rigidity” or “wooden chest”). This can make it harder for the victim to breathe and for a responder to do chest compressions.
Conclusion
Overall, buying fentanyl from illicit sources is never recommended due to the risks involved. It is important to prioritize your health and safety by avoiding purchasing this dangerous drug through unknown channels. If you require fentanyl for medical reasons, always seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.
