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Law Enforcement And Community Provision Of Fentanyl Test Strips To People Who Use Drugs For Engagement And Referral To Services
Your concern might be just what they need to start their recovery journey, and your support could make all the difference in their success. South Dakota just launched a marketing campaign to encourage the community to fight meth, but its slogan has drawn nationwide mockery on social media. We give one kit per person and cannot give out large quantities to individuals. SHOP has drop-in info sessions at the Student Health Center with the Party Safe Team.
How Can I Get Free Narcan And Fentanyl Test Strips?
Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
Additional Help For Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl test strips are simple, inexpensive tools that can detect the presence of fentanyl in various substances. As fentanyl is a potent opioid that can lead to overdose and death, these strips play a crucial role in harm reduction efforts aimed at preventing drug-related fatalities.
Other research from Brown University showed that half of test strip users found fentanyl in their drug supply. Of those who detected fentanyl, more than 40% decided to use a smaller amount of the drugs or to go more slowly to reduce their risk of overdosing. A similar percentage chose to use their drugs with other people (instead of alone) so someone would be around to call 911 or give them naloxone (Narcan), if needed, to reverse an opioid overdose.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
As of April 2021, federal guidance explicitly permits FTS purchase with health and social service funds. 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].
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. The Virginia Board of Medicine requires that physicians prescribe Narcan if opioid prescriptions exceed 120 MME per day. Fentanyl Test Strips are for anyone who is using unregulated drugs and need to determine if fentanyl is present. The test strips can also be obtained by anyone who is using drugs, family members, or friends.
A new CDC report shows that meth caused more fatal overdoses in the United States west of the Mississippi River than fentanyl in 2017. If you or someone you know is looking to make the move to an inpatient facility, or if you’d like more information about Fentanyl treatment options, contact a treatment provider today to learn more. Get professional help from an online addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp. Fentanyl test strips resemble COVID-19 at-home tests and will only cost $1. Join the thousands of people that have called a treatment provider for rehab information.
Protestors gathered at the office of the committee leader, Senator Joan Huffman, last week, demanding that lawmakers take action. When the test strips emerged as a viable drug checking option in 2019, opposition was much stronger than it is today, especially among vocal conservatives. Fentanyl test strips are often regarded as a “low-cost, high-impact” harm-reduction strategy—they are about 97% accurate; are compatible with most injectable, powder, or pill drugs; and cost only $1 per test.
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. We report here the results of the baseline survey and the outcomes of the fentanyl strip test training and receipt of the take-home tests.
Be sure they don’t aspirate (inhale) the vomit by putting them in the recovery position if they’re unconscious. If the person gets too much naloxone, try to explain to them that their withdrawal symptoms will begin to fade in a half hour or so. Naloxone temporarily knocks the opioids out of the opioid receptors in the brain, this will trigger normal breathing. However, depending on how much opioids the person has in their system, they could experience a second potentially fatal overdose because the naloxone wears off in about minutes. For this reason, we recommend the individual seek medical attention to ensure they are in the company of someone with additional naloxone in case a second overdose occurs. It’s also important for the person experiencing an overdose not to take any more drugs or alcohol within (at least) a three hour period.
With the increasing prevalence of fentanyl in the illicit drug supply, where to buy fentanyl test strips becomes a pertinent question for anyone using drugs. Here are some reasons why they are essential:
- Quick and easy to use.
- Can help in assessing the risk before consumption.
- Promotes safer drug use practices.
- Aids in reducing accidental overdoses.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Test Strips
When considering where to buy fentanyl test strips, various options are available, ensuring accessibility for all who need them. Below is a comprehensive list of places to acquire these life-saving tools:
1. Pharmacies
Many local pharmacies are beginning to stock fentanyl test strips due to rising awareness about opioid overdoses. Contact your local pharmacy to inquire about their availability.
2. Online Retailers
Numerous online platforms offer fentanyl test strips. Some popular choices include:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Specialized harm reduction websites
- 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.
- The data are not publicly available due to them containing information that could compromise research participant privacy/consent.
- Research by the Washington State Department of Health reveals that individuals using fentanyl test strips take steps to reduce their risk of overdose.
- Fentanyl test strips do not provide information about the amount or strength of fentanyl in a drug supply.
Make sure to check reviews and the credibility of the seller before making a purchase.
3. Non-Profit Organizations
Many harm reduction organizations provide fentanyl test strips for free or at a reduced cost. They often participate in outreach programs, distributing the strips directly to individuals at risk. Look for local resources such as:
- Drug user unions
- Community health organizations
- Substance abuse treatment centers
4. Health Departments
Some county or state health departments offer fentanyl test strips as part of their public health initiatives. Check with your local health department for availability and distribution sites.
5. Needle Exchange Programs
Many needle exchange programs also distribute fentanyl test strips alongside syringes and other harm reduction supplies. These programs aim to reduce the risks associated with drug use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Fentanyl Test Strips Made Of?
Fentanyl test strips are made from simple reagents that react to the presence of fentanyl. They are similar to pregnancy tests in terms of ease of use.
How Accurate Are Fentanyl Test Strips?
While fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl, their accuracy may vary. They are most effective for detecting fentanyl itself but may not identify other harmful substances.
Can I Use Fentanyl Test Strips on All Substances?
Yes, these strips can be used on various substances, including powders and pills. However, results may vary based on the form and composition of the drug.
Conclusion
If you’re concerned about the risks associated with fentanyl, knowing where to buy fentanyl test strips is essential. With options available at pharmacies, online retailers, outreach programs, health departments, and needle exchange programs, obtaining these strips is more accessible than ever. Engaging in harm reduction practices can save lives and promote safer drug use.
