Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
If given in time, NarcanĀ® (also known as Naloxone) can save the life of someone who is overdosing from opioids. It can stop an overdose and restore normal breathing until emergency response can arrive. MSK helped conduct the surveys, drafted the manuscript, and approved the final manuscript for submission. JLY, JAB, ML, EB, JDR, TCG, and SEH helped revise the manuscript and assist with critical interpretations of the findings. The data that support the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author, BDLM. The data are not publicly available due to them containing information that could compromise research participant privacy/consent.
Fentanyl test strips are essential tools for individuals who want to ensure their safety when using substances that may be contaminated with fentanyl, a potent opioid. These strips provide a quick and easy way to determine the presence of fentanyl in a sample.
- Even if your drugs test negative for fentanyl, use caution and follow the harm reduction steps (see below) if you are using drugs for recreational purposes.
- Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, restlessness, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.
- Fentanyl can be cut into heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and counterfeit pills with brand names like Vicodin, Oxycontin, Adderall and Xanax.
- The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal.
- Partnership to End Addiction is here if you need help thinking this through.
Because fentanyl is so potent, its use in people who are naĆÆve to fentanyl use can quickly lead to overdose and death. Distributors in the US sell counterfeit pills on social media, appealing to a younger, more opioid naĆÆve audience that use social media apps. Opioid naĆÆve individuals are at high risk of accidental overdose because they do not have a tolerance for opioids, may not have access to naloxone, and may not know how to decrease overdose risk. Oregon is experiencing an influx of fentanyl in the form of counterfeit pills.
CAN THE PERSON OVERDOSE AGAIN IF IāVE JUST GIVEN THEM NALOXONE?
The results of this study demonstrate that many young PWUD at risk of a fentanyl overdose perceive FTS as a feasible and acceptable harm reduction tool. In this study, we assessed two different applications of FTS (urine testing and residue testing) and found that residue testing is more convenient and allowed for participants to know about fentanyl adulteration before drugs are consumed. The majority of participants suggested that FTS were straightforward to use and did not cite significant barriers to use. After receiving a positive test result, many participants described precautions that they believed would prevent an overdose, such as using a drug with others around, keeping naloxone nearby, or using a tester. These findings suggest FTS may represent an important harm reduction intervention for opioid overdose prevention among young adult PWUD.
Importance of Fentanyl Test Strips
In 2020, over 80% of the fentanyl police confiscated with in tablet form. Police evidence that looked like black tar heroin actually was heroin in 95% of cases, suggesting that fentanyl was rarely in āheroinā in 2020. Young adults reported high uptake and acceptability of fentanyl test strips to detect IMF in illicit drugs.
Our peer parent coaches have weighed in on the topic of encouraging their loved ones to use test strips. They know how deadly fentanyl can be, in some cases having lost their children to overdoses. By far and away, they view this as a much-needed safety measure to reduce the risks of overdose and death. In states where they are considered illegal, fentanyl test strips are considered drug paraphernalia. Third, adaptations to the kit and distribution approaches emerged. Another adaptation requested the creation of trainings, materials, and kit instructions in other languages, especially Spanish.
Given the rising concerns surrounding opioid overdoses, it is vital for users to have access to reliable testing methods. Fentanyl is significantly stronger than other opioids, and even a small amount can be lethal. Testing substances for fentanyl can:
Additionally, we placed a key on each of the FTS packages to assist with interpretation of the test results (Fig. 1. Fentanyl rapid test strip results label). Health departments and community-based organizations across the country have been stepping up to respond to the opioid crisis. This project aimed to identify a potential tool they can use to prevent overdose deaths and engage with people who use opioids to help them move toward addiction treatment and other services.
The information on this website is not intended to be a substitute for, or to be relied upon as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified health provider with questions regarding a medical condition. Similar to other participants, another respondent described her response to a positive FTS result. She describes her conversation with her cousin, a dealer, about disposing of a significant amount of fentanyl-contaminated heroin.
- Reduce overdose risks
- Enhance awareness regarding substance purity
- Encourage safer practices among users
Where Can I Buy Fentanyl Test Strips?
If you are wondering where can I buy fentanyl test strips, there are several options available:
1. Online Retailers
Many online platforms offer fentanyl test strips. This is often the most convenient option.
- Amazon: Search for fentanyl test strips; various brands are available.
- Drug policy organizations: Websites often sell testing kits directly.
- Specialty health stores: Some stores focus on harm reduction supplies.
2. Local Pharmacies
Some pharmacies have started to carry fentanyl test strips as part of their health and safety products. Call ahead to check availability.
3. Harm Reduction Centers
Local harm reduction programs often provide fentanyl test strips for free or at a low cost. These centers aim to reduce the negative consequences associated with drug use.
4. Community Programs
Various community initiatives may also distribute fentanyl test strips as part of overdose prevention efforts.
Using Fentanyl Test Strips
Once you have obtained the strips, it is important to know how to use them effectively:
- Prepare the sample: Dissolve a small amount of the substance in water.
- Dip the strip: Place the strip into the solution for the recommended time.
- Read the results: Wait for the strips to develop before interpreting the results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the results mean?
Two lines typically indicate a negative result, meaning fentanyl is not detected. One line may suggest fentanyl presence.
Are fentanyl test strips legal?
In many regions, fentanyl test strips are legal and can be purchased without a prescription. However, local laws may vary.
How effective are fentanyl test strips?
Though they are a helpful tool, they may not detect all forms of fentanyl or its analogs. Thus, they should not be solely relied upon.
Conclusion
Fentanyl test strips can be crucial for reducing the risks associated with opioid use. Knowing where can I buy fentanyl test strips can empower individuals to make informed choices and prioritize their safety. Be proactive and take advantage of the resources available in your community and online.