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Although fentanyl test strips (FTS) can accurately determine the presence of fentanyl in unregulated substances, access to FTS remains limited. This study aimed to examine North Carolina community pharmacists’ attitudes and willingness to engage in various behaviors related to FTS sales and distribution. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is a prescription drug that is also made and used illegally. Like morphine, it is a medicine that is typically used to treat patients with severe pain, especially after surgery.
Understanding Fentanyl
The rise in use and overdoses are described as well as some of the reasons for these changes. Implications for overdose prevention and initiating treatment with medications for opioid use disorder are described. In 2020, over 80% of the fentanyl police confiscated with in tablet form. Police evidence that looked like black tar heroin actually was heroin in 95% of cases, suggesting that fentanyl was rarely in “heroin” in 2020. In order to use the strips, testers dissolve a small amount of substance in water, and then dip the test strip into the liquid for 15 seconds. Because the test strips are highly sensitive, a minimal amount of drug residue is sufficient to obtain a result.
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Despite this high degree of willingness, only two pharmacies were currently providing FTS. Five people died on the University of Washington campus in Seattle during the past academic year after drug overdoses. While none of these individuals were formally affiliated with the UW, they were all part of our larger community, had potential, had loved ones and were cared about. During times of individual and collective stress, there is a potential for increased opioid use as a way to self-medicate.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is frequently used in medical settings for pain management. It is significantly more powerful than morphine and has a rapid onset of action. Due to its potency, it is both admired for its effectiveness and feared for its potential for misuse.
Here is a map showing all the locations where FentCheck™ venues have fentanyl test strips available. Consider carrying Naloxone, a medicine that rapidly reverses fentanyl overdoses. I only need to be concerned about fentanyl if I am using certain drugs like heroin.
China has cracked down on fentanyl and some of its subtypes, or analogues, but the online dealers often tweak the formulas of their drugs slightly to stay ahead of bans. For example, when China announced it would ban one fentanyl product, called U-47700, on July 1, one fentanyl dealer advertised a “hot sale” of the product through June. “All must go till 1 of July,” the “special offer” read, according to the report. Five or six times a day, a man from Texas injects a dose of carefully measured fentanyl.
People all over Wisconsin are unknowingly taking drugs containing fentanyl and overdosing because the drugs look identical to what they are used to taking. Get the facts on fentanyl to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones. You will know it’s ready because the water will be sucked up into the white part of the strip.
Why is Fentanyl Controversial?
The controversy surrounding fentanyl primarily stems from its high potential for addiction and overdose. Many users seek out this substance for its euphoric effects, which can lead to dangerous practices. As a result, it is crucial to understand where to obtain it safely and legally.
As fentanyl floods the illicit drug market, the price for a pill has dropped substantially in the past few years. Legal fentanyl is a synthetic prescription opioid developed in the 1960s and is used to treat severe pain such as breakthrough cancer pain in patients who are opioid-tolerant. Fentanyl moving through the street market comes in a powder form and can be injected, smoked, or snorted. It has also been found in other drugs, like heroin, meth, cocaine, and pressed pills. The illicit trade in fentanyl – a powerful opioid between 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine – is a deadly enterprise that spans organized crime groups in China, Mexico and much of the western world.
Where to Buy Fentanyl?
When considering where to buy fentanyl, it is essential to prioritize safety and legality. Here are some reliable options:
- Prescription from a Medical Professional: The most legitimate way to obtain fentanyl is through a prescription given by a healthcare provider. This ensures that it is used appropriately for medical purposes.
- Pharmacies: Once prescribed, fentanyl can typically be filled at local pharmacies or specialized pain management facilities that are licensed to distribute controlled substances.
- Hospitals: In some cases, hospitals may provide fentanyl to treat patients with severe pain, typically during surgeries or in emergency room settings.
Buying Fentanyl Online
While there are numerous online sources claiming to sell fentanyl, caution is advised:
- Only consider online pharmacies that require a prescription and are certified by regulatory bodies, such as the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).
- Be wary of websites that sell fentanyl without a prescription, as these products may be counterfeit and potentially lethal.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, we had more people in the Bay Area die from fentanyl than COVID-19, so fentanyl overdoses are really impacting our community.
- The fact that naloxone programs have been so effective proves this.
- The word “overdose” has sometimes carried a moral judgment that the individual was “pushing their limits” in order to get as high as possible, as if it were their own fault.
- Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for pain-management treatment of cancer patients.
- Implications for overdose prevention and initiating treatment with medications for opioid use disorder are described.
- Fentanyl has now surpassed methamphetamine as the most frequent drug involved in overdose deaths in Oregon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of buying Fentanyl illegally?
Purchasing fentanyl outside of legal channels poses significant risks, including exposure to adulterated substances and the potential for legal repercussions.
Can Fentanyl be obtained safely without a prescription?
No, safe procurement of fentanyl should always involve a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider.
What should I do if I suspect someone is misusing Fentanyl?
If you believe someone is misusing fentanyl, it is important to seek help from a medical professional or contact addiction services for support.
Conclusion
When discussing where to buy fentanyl, it is pivotal to emphasize the importance of legality and safety. Always consult a healthcare professional for guidance, and prioritize authorized channels to mitigate risks associated with this potent opioid.
