Among U.S. drug overdose deaths in 2021, fentanyl was the top killer [PDF] for all regions of the country and all age, race, and ethnic groups. Still, it hit some harder than others—American Indian and Alaska Native people, Black people, younger adults, and men died from fentanyl-linked overdoses at higher rates. For synthetic opioids without heroin, 32% of deaths involve none of the other drugs listed.
NCDHHS North Carolina Safer Syringe Initiative
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is commonly used to manage severe pain, especially in cases where other medications have been ineffective. Due to its high risk of addiction and overdose, fentanyl is a controlled substance and can only be legally obtained with a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Can You Buy Fentanyl Over the Counter?
What are some signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose?
No, fentanyl cannot be purchased over the counter at pharmacies or any other retail outlets. It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, which means that it has a high potential for abuse and is available only by prescription.
Why is Fentanyl Prescription-Only?
High concentrations of illicit stimulants and cutting agents cause false positives on fentanyl test strips
- Fentanyl is a powerful opioid that can lead to addiction and overdose if not used properly.
- Prescribing fentanyl allows healthcare providers to closely monitor patients for any signs of misuse or dependence.
- It also helps prevent the illegal distribution of fentanyl for non-medical purposes.
The solution was then serially diluted to 5 ng/mL to determine fentanyl test strip limit of detection. One FTS was used at each dilution until 125 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, 83 ng/mL, 63 ng/mL, 50 ng/mL, 25 ng/mL, and 5 ng/mL where 5 strips were used at each dilution. Because of the potency of fentanyl, even a small amount can be deadly. Even though it was a prescription drug, it’s been available at participating Michigan pharmacies without a prescription since 2017 through a standing order passed by the Michigan Legislature. About 60% of the state’s pharmacies carried Narcan under that order. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given approval for Narcan to be sold over-the-counter in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
What Are the Risks of Buying Fentanyl Without a Prescription?
NCDHHS Syringe and Naloxone Access
Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of drug poisoning deaths in the United States. Of course, the safest option is not to use illegal drugs at all or to seek out a drug addiction treatment program if you need help stopping. But if you’re going to use street drugs, testing them for fentanyl first might save your life. When people become addicted, drug seeking and drug use take over their lives. Some drug dealers are mixing fentanyl with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA.
- Simply log in and review the educational video and take a brief quiz.
- Wash your hands well with water after throwing away fentanyl patches.
- You may be able to take another medicine to help prevent these problems.
- Giving Narcan to someone who is overdosing on something other than an opioid is not harmful to them.
- Pharmaceutical opioids have declined after 2006 as heroin increased, and starting in 2016 other synthetic opioids started increasing.
Buying fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and extremely dangerous. Some risks include:
- Increased risk of overdose due to unknown potency and purity of the drug.
- Potential legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
- Exposure to counterfeit or contaminated fentanyl that can cause serious harm or death.
A lethal dose requires just two milligrams of the drug—an amount roughly equivalent to ten to fifteen grains of table salt. While many may have a copay for the brand, Narcan, other brands may be free. The Pennsylvania Naloxone Copay Assistance Program will cover up to $75 of any out-of-pocket costs for naloxone. “The opportunity to have Narcan available in the form of what retailers can provide, online and expanding that is critically important,” he said. Tricia Moriarty, a spokesperson, said Walmart will have over-the-counter Narcan in some of its stores and online as soon as this weekend.
These services can also provide opportunities to connect individuals with other support services, such as housing and employment assistance, which can help address underlying issues contributing to substance use. This will help people who use drugs reduce their risk of overdose. DAODAS contracts with many community distributors of naloxone in South Carolina to enhance their overdose prevention programs by offering fentanyl test strips at no cost.
The availability of opioids in recreational drugs poses both mental health and medical risks. If you or someone you care about uses opioids or other drugs, treatment is effective and available. In addition, naloxone (commercially known as the nasal spray Narcan) can reverse the effects of an accidental overdose for opioids including fentanyl, that is increasingly found in counterfeit pills and trafficked substances. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first nonprescription, “over-the-counter” (OTC) naloxone nasal spray, Narcan.
It is important to always follow the guidance of a healthcare provider when using prescription medications like fentanyl to ensure safe and effective treatment.
