Content
Learn more about responding to suspected drug overdoses on OHA’s Naloxone Rescue for Opioid Overdose webpage (link). Rescue breaths are critical for people who have used xylazine because it causes breathing to slow down. Harm reduction experts also recommend rolling the person who has overdosed onto their side with their top knee bent, in the recovery position. People using xylazine can develop a dependence and may be at risk of withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, restlessness, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.
Understanding Fentanyl Pills
In the same year, in Anoka County, Minnesota, six overdoses and two deaths occurred in a 12-hour period in October 2016. These instances and similar cases throughout the nation pointed to single batches of fentanyl-laced heroin as the culprit for dramatic spikes in overdose cases. In the 1990s, a new transdermal skin patch for fentanyl was developed to treat chronic pain.
Many of the 45,000 drug-related deaths that year were determined to have resulted from abuse, addiction, and overdoses due to fentanyl. But accidental overdoses from legal prescriptions pale in comparison to deaths attributed to illegally imported versions of the drug and its analogs starting in the late 1990s. The effectiveness of the drug, combined with user-friendly delivery methods, drew the attention of bad actors seeking to profit from its potency.
The fentanyl test strips given away were packaged into kits including 10 strips, each with instructions on how to use them, a pocket-sized set of instructions with pictures, and information on fentanyl. The kits also included a NEXT Distro card, which is a mail-based program where people can receive free Narcan and fentanyl test strips. Additionally, mental health care for people of all ages in San Diego is available at Sharp. Expert medical teams treat anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, bipolar disorder and more. However, if you or a loved one are at immediate risk of self-harm, it is important to go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Start with a very small dose every time you use something that could be contaminated with fentanyl.
Counterfeit pills, such as “blue oxys” and fake Xanax, have become increasingly available and are commonly laced with fentanyl. According to the CDC, deaths from fentanyl poisoning are fastest growing among 14- to 23-year-olds. The presence of fentanyl both in counterfeit pills and in illicit street drugs poses a grave threat to the safety of teens and adults alike. Used syringes can be exchanged for sterile ones at Brandywine Counseling locations throughout the state. Test strips, which detect the presence of fentanyl in other drugs, are also available — fentanyl was involved in 85% of overdose deaths in 2022. Fentanyl has been found in many different drugs, including heroin, cocaine, crack, methamphetamine and ketamine.
Personalized Harm Reduction Workshops
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. Programs include screenings for substance use, trainings, identity workshops, and more. Overdose deaths have spiked dramatically, and the reason is clear. One red line on top (closer to the yellow end) after waiting three minutes is a POSITIVE result for the presence of fentanyl. If you inject drugs, you should try to test every time you inject. The easiest method is to test the residue from your spoon or cooker.
If you are with friends who are also using, have someone else check in on all of you. Ensure that everyone knows where to access it and how to use it in case of an emergency. Drug traffickers often mix fentanyl into other drugs because it is cheap to manufacture and a small amount goes a long way. People in the United States are dying from fentanyl at alarming rates. Getting the facts about fentanyl and sharing them widely is a good first step in addressing this community-wide crisis.
However, many states are changing their policies to help prevent opioid overdoses and save lives. Among the U.S. cities with the highest number of people who use heroin, Baltimore is taking novel steps to address the opioid epidemic within its boundaries. The city’s health department has actively worked to get naloxone, the opioid-overdose reversal medication, into the hands of people who can use it to save lives, and to expand access to addiction treatment.
Fentanyl pills are synthetic opioids that are significantly more powerful than morphine. They are primarily prescribed for severe pain management, particularly in patients with chronic pain, cancer, or those undergoing surgery.
However, the illegal market for fentanyl pills has surged, leading to a crisis of abuse and overdose. It is vital for individuals to understand the risks associated with these drugs and the importance of obtaining them legally and safely.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Pills Legally
To avoid the detrimental consequences of buying fentanyl pills illegally, it’s essential to identify legitimate and safe sources:
- Licensed Pharmacies: Prescription fentanyl is only available through licensed pharmacies. Consult licensed healthcare providers for legitimate prescriptions.
- Healthcare Providers: Always consult with a physician or healthcare professional who can assess your needs and determine if fentanyl is appropriate for you.
- Hospitals and Clinics: For surgical or severe pain management, hospitals, and pain management clinics can offer prescriptions as needed.
Risks of Buying Fentanyl Pills from Illegal Sources
Purchasing fentanyl pills from non-regulated sources is highly dangerous. Here are some risks associated with illegal purchases:
- Unregulated Dosage: Illegally obtained pills may contain varying dosages that could lead to overdose.
- Contamination: Fentanyl sold illegally may be mixed with other dangerous substances, increasing the risk of adverse reactions.
- Legal Consequences: Purchasing fentanyl pills illegally can lead to severe legal issues, including arrest and prosecution.
- Health Risks: There is no guarantee of the safety or efficacy of illegally purchased drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I buy fentanyl pills online?
While some online pharmacies claim to sell fentanyl pills, it is crucial to verify their legitimacy. Only purchase from reputable online pharmacies that require a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.
2. What should I do if I suspect someone is misusing fentanyl?
- A standard plastic bottle cap holds approximately one teaspoon (5 ml) of water when almost full.
- It’s just much more convenient for smugglers to move the amount of fentanyl that it takes to supply a market than amount of cocaine or heroin.
- When using drugs, start with a very small amount and go slow to test the strength.
If you suspect someone is misusing fentanyl pills, it is important to approach the subject with care. Encourage them to seek help from medical professionals or substance abuse counselors.
3. Are there alternatives to fentanyl for pain management?
Yes, there are various alternatives available for pain management, including non-opioid medications, physical therapy, and holistic approaches. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Conclusion
Understanding where to buy fentanyl pills legally is crucial for safety and health. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals and procure medications from legitimate sources to ensure both effectiveness and safety.
Stay informed, be aware of the risks, and prioritize health over convenience when it comes to prescription medications.