Keep in mind that these test strips only reveal whether the drugs contain fentanyl. If the compound is present in the drugs, the test strips won’t indicate the potency level or quantity. Additionally, there are many versions of fentanyl in the illicit drug supply, and basic test strips can miss variants that could also be lethal. There has been an increase of fentanyl found in stimulants, like cocaine, as well as pills purchased in street-based economies.
Fake prescription pills that are widely accessible can contain deadly doses of fentanyl. They are often sold on social media and e-commerce platforms — making them available to anyone with a smartphone, including teens and young adults. Texans should only take legitimate pharmaceutical medications prescribed by medical professionals and dispensed by pharmacists in the U.S. However, many states are changing their policies to help prevent opioid overdoses and save lives. By now, you may know a family shattered by the opioid epidemic.
The inexpensive strips have been embraced by treatment organizations as a way to reduce harms from illicit drug use. Nearly 40 states have legalized their use, according to the Network for Public Health Law. The Gazette spoke with Sarah Wakeman, the senior medical director for Substance Use Disorder at Mass General Brigham about the legal shift over use of the products. In states where they are considered illegal, fentanyl test strips are considered drug paraphernalia. It must be introduced into the bloodstream or a mucus membrane in order for someone to feel the effects.
Other strategies to prevent overdose deaths include lowering the entry barrier to addiction treatment, fentanyl test strips, supervised consumption sites and even prescription diamorphine (heroin). Physicians like me have seen a rise in unintentional fentanyl use from people buying prescription opioids and other drugs laced, or adulterated, with fentanyl. Heroin users in my community in Massachusetts came to realize that fentanyl had entered the drug supply when overdose numbers exploded. In 2016, my colleagues and I found that patients who came to the emergency department reporting a heroin overdose often only had fentanyl present in their drug test results. Fentanyl, which is 50 times as potent as heroin, laces many batches of heroin and cocaine, and it is now involved in at least half of all opioid overdose deaths. More than 70,000 people died of drug overdoses last year—the equivalent of about three 747 plane crashes each week.
Understanding Fentanyl
In 2015, more people in the U.S. died from overdose than from firearm homicides, melanoma, auto accidents or HIV-related causes. The recent increase in overdoses can be traced to the potent synthetic opioid fentanyl and other similar substances, which are increasingly laced into heroin and other street drugs, making them even more deadly. Since 2019, 134,280 doses of NARCAN® have been distributed at no cost through community agencies to people who use opioids or drugs that could be mixed with opioids, and their families and friends. So far this year, more than 5,000 overdoses have been reversed with NARCAN® distributed through this program.
Addiction is the most severe form of a substance use disorder (SUD). SUDs are characterized by compulsive drug seeking and drug use that can be difficult to control, despite harmful consequences. When someone is addicted to drugs, they continue to use them even though they cause health problems or issues at work, school, or home. Illegal fentanyl often comes as a powder or pressed into a pill. An overdose can occur if you swallow, snort, or inject fentanyl.
Finally, this study relied on self-report, which may be subject to socially desirable reporting. However, evidence has shown a high association between willingness to use a harm reduction program and subsequent uptake of the intervention among people who use drugs [38]. Beginning in May 2017, we recruited participants from the 2015 RAPIDS study, 61% of whom previously agreed to be contacted for future research studies. We expanded the age and drug use eligibility criteria created based on our recent research of the fentanyl overdose epidemic in Rhode Island [19]. According to the CDC 82.3% of opioid overdose deaths in 2020 involved synthetic opioids, like Fentanyl. In its mission to decrease the number of overdose deaths caused by the contamination of the illicit drug supply with fentanyl, Overdose Lifeline is able to supply Fentanyl test strips to Indiana residents.
The feds also shut down what prosecutors say were the Zheng’s 40 websites selling illegal drugs in 20 languages. We don’t know if their lab shut down, but the network has been, at least for now. The United States Postal System has been, for many years, the most reliable way to smuggle drugs from China to the U.S. Cronin’s investigators went online and discovered overseas labs offering most any illegal drug. One study found high amounts of methamphetamine, MDMA and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), a common cutting agent in heroin, can cause a false positive.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is often used medically for pain management. However, due to its potency, it poses significant risks when misused.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II narcotic and is approximately 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. It is commonly prescribed for severe pain, especially in patients undergoing surgery or those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Can You Buy Fentanyl?
The question of can you buy fentanyl is complex. Here are key points regarding its purchase and legality:
- Prescription Requirement: In most countries, fentanyl can only be obtained legally with a medical prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
- Illicit Sources: There is a black market for fentanyl, where individuals may seek to buy it illegally. This poses severe health risks because the quality and dosage can vary greatly.
- Forms of Fentanyl: It is available in various forms, including patches, lozenges, and injectable solutions. Each form has specific regulations regarding its distribution.
Health Risks of Buying Fentanyl Illegally
Purchasing fentanyl from unauthorized sources can lead to serious consequences:
- Overdose: Due to the potency of fentanyl, the risk of overdose is significantly higher when obtained illegally.
- Contamination: Illegally obtained fentanyl may be mixed with other substances, increasing the likelihood of dangerous reactions.
- Addiction: Misuse of fentanyl can lead to physical dependence and addiction, requiring professional treatment.
FAQs about Fentanyl
Unity Recovery
1. Is fentanyl legal?
Yes, fentanyl is legal when prescribed by a licensed physician for medical use. However, purchasing it without a prescription is illegal.
2. Why is fentanyl so dangerous?
Its high potency means that even a small dose can lead to respiratory depression and potentially fatal overdose.
3. How can I recognize fentanyl?
- Xylazine may be mixed in with other illicit drugs for several reasons, including increasing drug weight or adding an effect.
- Callers can access free peer support, learn how to navigate treatment and referral services, and receive information on employment and licensing concerns.
- Click here for some helpful FAQs that we have compiled from local, state, and federal health agencies, as well as information on the County’s next vaccination event this week.
- For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl.
- Xylazine withdrawal can become a critical medical event requiring hospitalization.
Illegally manufactured fentanyl can be found in various forms such as pills, powders, or mixed into other drugs. It is often indistinguishable from other substances.
4. What should I do if someone overdoses on fentanyl?
Call emergency services immediately and, if available, administer naloxone (Narcan) to counteract the effects of an opioid overdose.
Conclusion
Understanding fentanyl and its associated risks is crucial for both medical and non-medical communities. The answer to can you buy fentanyl should always be approached with caution, emphasizing the importance of procuring this substance only through legitimate medical channels.
