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But if you’re going to use street drugs, testing them for fentanyl first might save your life. In 2020, there were 812 overdose deaths in Wisconsin where illegally manufactured fentanyl was considered to be probable or suspected in contributing cause of death. Recognizing the value of fentanyl test strips in reducing the harms of drug use, Gov. Tony Evers signed legislation in March to allow the test strips to be used in Wisconsin. Local Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs or OOPPs connect New Yorkers with naloxone, naloxone training, fentanyl test strips, and safe syringe access and disposal services. Fentanyl test strips are paper strips used to detect the presence of fentanyl in injectable substances, powders, and pills.
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Availability
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically for pain management, particularly for patients undergoing surgery or those with chronic pain. However, due to its strength and potential for addiction, many people wonder, “where can I buy fentanyl?”
To do this, make a fist, and press your pointed knuckles into the sternum (the flat bone in the center of the chest), moving up and down with pressure. Do not inflict pain in other ways such as hitting – a sternum rub is the most effective method and does not cause additional harm. Rhode Island has become known for taking a data-driven and evidence-based approach to the opioid crisis. A major element of the strategy is the expansion of access to treatment — both in correctional facilities and in the community. The state also closely tracks a number of vital indicators in a dashboard that is considered one of the most useful and comprehensive in the country. Sherman and Green have long focused on improving the health of marginalized populations, including people with substance use disorders, sex workers and people with HIV.
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”).
Medical Uses of Fentanyl
Use 1 teaspoon of water per every 10 mg of crystal or powder meth, MDMA, or ecstasy to dissolve the drugs in a small container (like a soda bottle cap). If you’re using a different type of drug, use half a teaspoon of water instead. When you use an illegal drug, there’s no guarantee that it contains what the dealer or person who gave it to you says it does.
Naloxone nasal spray is a life-saving drug, if administered in time, and can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. With a recent increases in overdoses, drug field tests started turning up positive for street fentanyl. Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Vice Agents say dealers have been mixing the powder version of fentanyl into their heroin bags to boost sales. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies, like Percocet and Xanax. 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. These particular pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors.
Fentanyl is primarily used in medical settings under strict supervision. Its uses include:
- Managing severe pain post-surgery
- Palliative care for cancer patients
- Chronic pain management in patients with fewer options
Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay test strips designed to quickly and cheaply test urine for the presence of fentanyl. Routine testing for xylazine by the Oregon State Medical Examiner began in 2020. Since then, xylazine has been found in a small but increasing amount of overdose deaths in Oregon.
That being said, those fighting substance use disorders who are willing to take the potentially fatal risks that come with consuming illicit pills can reduce their chances of overdosing by using FTS. The Institute’s research shows a sharp rise in deaths from synthetic opioids, the most common of which is fentanyl and its analogues, eclipsing heroin deaths in 2020. The Division of Substance Use Prevention and Harm Reduction (SUPHR) provides test strips and naloxone to both individuals and organizations. In addition to distributing these supplies at pop-ups and community events listed on our events page, there are a few ways you can get naloxone and test strips to prevent a fatal overdose in your community.
Legitimate Sources of Fentanyl
If you are considering where to buy fentanyl legally, it is crucial to know that it is available through:
- Licensed Healthcare Providers: Only obtain fentanyl through a prescription from a healthcare professional.
- Pharmacies: Authorized pharmacies can dispense fentanyl patches, lozenges, or injections when prescribed.
Risks of Purchasing Fentanyl Illegally
- 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.
- Oregon is experiencing an influx of fentanyl in the form of counterfeit pills.
- Because of how potent it is, it can significantly increase the risk of overdose.
- The Institute’s research shows a sharp rise in deaths from synthetic opioids, the most common of which is fentanyl and its analogues, eclipsing heroin deaths in 2020.
- “All must go till 1 of July,” the “special offer” read, according to the report.
- The city has taken steps such as hiring outreach workers, training emergency responders and enhancing resources to support recovery.
Purchasing fentanyl from unregulated sources is illegal and extremely dangerous due to:
- Risk of overdose from unmeasured doses
- Potential exposure to counterfeit products
- Legal repercussions associated with narcotics
Free Fentanyl Tests Now Available In Partnership With Fulton County
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I buy fentanyl online?
Purchasing fentanyl online is often risky and largely illegal unless it is through a verified pharmacy that requires a prescription.
2. What should I do if I need fentanyl for pain management?
Consult a healthcare provider to discuss your pain management options and acquire a legal prescription if appropriate.
3. What are the dangers of fentanyl?
Fentanyl carries a high risk of addiction, overdose, and death, especially if misused or taken without a doctor’s supervision.
4. Are there alternatives to fentanyl?
Yes, there are several alternatives for pain management, including:
- Other opioids (under medical supervision)
- Non-opioid pain relievers
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Conclusion
While the inquiry about where can I buy fentanyl is understandable, it is imperative to approach this topic with caution and responsibility. Always prioritize safety and legality by consulting healthcare professionals and using licensed pharmacies to ensure proper care and management of pain.