Fentanyl test strips are a crucial tool in harm reduction efforts for individuals who use drugs, as they can help prevent accidental overdoses. These strips work by detecting the presence of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that is often mixed with other drugs like heroin or cocaine.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
New AMA Report Details Grim Realities Of Worsening Overdose Epidemic
Additional study across more geographies is warranted and may provide further insights. The rate of fentanyl-attributable fatal overdose has been particularly high among residents of New England, the northeastern region of the US [8, 9]. In 2016, fentanyl was found in 58% of all overdose deaths in Rhode Island, a state in New England with an overdose death rate about 1.5 times greater than the national average [10, 11]. Additionally, fatal opioid overdoses are affecting younger populations than previous years. In Rhode Island, young adults have the fastest growing rate of fatal overdoses; more than one in four fatal fentanyl-related overdoses in 2016 were among people between the ages of 18 and 29 years [12, 13]. SAC providers worked in close partnership with syringe access participants to test samples of drugs and complete a brief survey regarding the findings, including the participant’s behavior upon learning if their sample tested positive or negative.
- There’s no way to know if -or how much- fentanyl may be in them.
- Subsequently, an inductive approach was utilized, which brought forth new concepts and themes from the reading of the interview transcript [49].
- Fentanyl is a strong synthetic opioid that has been used in clinical settings since 1968.
Resources To Recovery – Recursos Para Recuperarse
Due to its high potency, even a small amount of fentanyl can lead to overdose and death. By using fentanyl test strips, individuals can test their substances before consuming them and make informed decisions about their drug use. This simple and affordable tool can save lives and prevent tragedies.
Where to Purchase Fentanyl Test Strips
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To use, place unused medication in bag and fill halfway with warm tap water; wait 30 seconds, seal tightly, gently shake bag, and dispose in normal trash can. Any drug in any form (powder, pill) you get from a dealer, friend or an online source could have fentanyl in it. You can’t smell or taste fentanyl and fake pills made from fentanyl can look like real pills from a pharmacy.
There are several online retailers where you can buy fentanyl test strips. It is important to ensure that you are purchasing from a reputable source to guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the strips. Some well-known vendors include:
Stay Aware, Stay Safe
- DanceSafe: DanceSafe is a nonprofit organization that sells drug checking kits, including fentanyl test strips. Their products are widely used in the harm reduction community.
- The Bunk Police: The Bunk Police is another trusted vendor that offers fentanyl test strips along with other harm reduction supplies.
- Amazon: You can also find fentanyl test strips on Amazon, but be sure to read reviews and check the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.
Many of the opioid pills and powders sold on the street are fake. They often contain fentanyl in potentially deadly amounts but are mislabeled as other opioids. The DEA sampled tablets seized nationwide between January and March 2019. It found 27 percent contained potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. This medication is not just for people with an opioid dependence or addiction. If you or a loved one are prescribed opioid painkillers, or are taking opioids, you should have Narcan on hand.
Conclusion
Fentanyl test strips are an essential tool for individuals who use drugs, providing them with the knowledge they need to stay safe and avoid overdoses. By purchasing these strips from reputable vendors, you can help protect yourself and others in your community from the dangers of fentanyl contamination.