Content
Around them, a few people openly injected dope, as an occasional pedestrian threaded past. In New York, fentanyl test strips are becoming more common as a way to fight an overdose crisis, and more states are pushing to legalize them. No drug has fueled the current spike in overdose deaths more than fentanyl. The synthetic opioid claimed two thirds of the record 64,000 such fatalities in the U.S. in 2016.
Harm Reduction Needs You. Join the Movement.
Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, has gained notoriety in recent years due to its high potency and the devastating consequences associated with its misuse. While it is primarily used medically for severe pain management, there are illegal channels through which people attempt to buy fentanyl.
The Dangers of Fentanyl
Fentanyl poses significant risks to individuals who use it without a legitimate medical need or proper prescription. It is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and up to 100 times stronger than morphine. This potency makes it highly addictive and increases the likelihood of overdosing, which can lead to coma or even death.
How do I use fentanyl test strips?
It is crucial to understand that obtaining fentanyl without a valid prescription or from unreliable sources can have dire consequences on your health and well-being. Fentanyl sold illicitly may often be mixed with other substances, making it even more hazardous and unpredictable.
- Always carry Narcan, a lifesaving medication that can stop an overdose while it’s happening.
- Access this directory of Washington State syringe exchange programs.
- Our Research and Investigations Team also focuses on identifying new ways vendors use to disguise the trade of such illicit goods.
- The test strips don’t determine how much fentanyl is present in the sample, but Westfahl said for some people, it’s enough to know it’s there at all.
Addressing Prescription Misuse
As we first reported in April, tracking the source of this illicit trade is a story that begins with James Rauh. Like most in Akron, Ohio, he’d never heard of fentanyl until the police told him his son was dead. People who use drugs and people who may witness an overdose should learn what an overdose looks like, carry naloxone, and know how to give naloxone to a person to reverse an opioid overdose.
If you require fentanyl for legitimate medical reasons, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. Never attempt to obtain the medication through unofficial channels or without proper oversight from a healthcare professional. Deviating from these guidelines can have severe implications for both your health and legal status.
Customer Service
Even when legally prescribed, strict adherence to the recommended dosage and regular consultations with your healthcare provider are crucial. Your physician will monitor your response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your safety.
Seeking Professional Help
If you suspect someone you know is struggling with fentanyl misuse or addiction, it is essential to provide support and encourage them to seek professional help. Substance abuse counselors, addiction specialists, and treatment centers can offer guidance and assist in developing an individualized plan for recovery.
Remember, addiction is a complex issue that requires comprehensive treatment. Encouraging open communication and providing a non-judgmental environment can make a significant difference in someone’s decision to seek help.
Fentanyl FAQ’s
Conclusion
Fentanyl misuse has become a growing concern in recent years due to its highly potent nature and the risks associated with obtaining it unlawfully. If you are wondering how to buy fentanyl, it is important to recognize the potential harm it can cause and the legal implications involved.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used to treat the most severe pain. While all opioids can be deadly, fentanyl is especially dangerous because it is so strong—much stronger than heroin or morphine. Because a lethal dose of Fentanyl is only about two milligrams, equivalent to a few grains of salt, it’s becoming increasingly common for users to overdose on Fentanyl-laced products. In Alabama, the number of people who died from Fentanyl poisoning more than doubled from 2019 to 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Instead of seeking illicit sources, prioritize your health and well-being by consulting with healthcare professionals who can guide you towards safe and legal alternatives for managing pain or addressing any other medical conditions requiring opioid medication.
Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Small variations in the quantity or quality of fentanyl in a fake prescription pill can accidentally create a lethal dosage. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of drug poisoning deaths in the United States.
Remember, the risks associated with fentanyl misuse far outweigh any perceived benefits. It is crucial to prioritize your safety and seek appropriate medical assistance when needed.
