Fentanyl testing strips are small pieces of paper coated with a chemical reagent that reacts to the presence of fentanyl. They work by detecting the presence of fentanyl in different drugs (heroin, meth, cocaine, etc.) and drug forms (powder, injectables, and pills). These drug testing technologies serve as harm reduction strategies, providing essential information about fentanyl in the illicit drug supply so they can take steps to reduce the risk of overdose. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used for treating severe pain and is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.
But you can also use them to see whether a drug contains fentanyl in just a few minutes. 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. How to recognize an overdose and save a life with naloxone.
How Can I Be Sure That I’m Buying Real Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is commonly used to treat severe pain, but it is also highly addictive and has a high potential for abuse. Due to its potency, fentanyl can be very dangerous if not used properly. Unfortunately, there are individuals who may want to buy fentanyl for non-medical purposes.
Buying Fentanyl Illegally
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The latest escalation is fentanyl, which is commonly found in counterfeit pills, called “blues,” that mimic the appearance of the prescription opioid they replaced. Order informational materials and fentanyl test strips from Public Health here. Here is a map showing all the locations where FentCheck™ venues have fentanyl test strips available. There are many different fentanyl-like drugs and it’s hard to tell the difference between them all by just taste, smell, color, or feel.
Illegally buying fentanyl is extremely risky and illegal. It is important to note that purchasing fentanyl from sources other than a licensed healthcare provider is against the law and poses serious health risks. Street dealers may mix fentanyl with other substances, which can increase the likelihood of overdose or other negative effects.
How To Test For Fentanyl And Prevent An Overdose
Prescription Fentanyl
If you have a legitimate medical need for fentanyl, it must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. You should never attempt to obtain fentanyl without a valid prescription. Misusing prescription medications is dangerous and illegal.
Online Purchasing
What is the fentanyl crisis in CT?
In 2022, 1,467 Connecticut residents died from overdoses after consuming fentanyl, heroin, and other opioid drugs. 80% of these deaths were caused by fentanyl, a powerful synthetic narcotic widely distributed in the illegal drug trade.
But first, let’s look at the fentanyl crisis in Texas and what the state is doing to combat the spread of fentanyl and save lives. Naloxone, sold under the name Narcan, is a prescription medication used to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. When used immediately after an overdose, naloxone can block the effects of the opioids and help prevent death. Naloxone’s effects are temporary, so it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately after it is administered. It can be purchased from a pharmacy (even without a prescription) or may be distributed by different organizations within your community. FTS are a relatively new harm reduction tool, and as such there is limited awareness of FTS among both PWUD and pharmacists.
- Naloxone and Fentanyl Test Strips are available confidentially and at no cost.
- Fentanyl is safe when it’s prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed.
- This means that fentanyl and/or xylazine may still be present in a drug product, even when a portion of the product tested with drug checking strips does not react.
- But we actually have really good evidence in the drug-use space that harm reduction interventions don’t encourage drug use.
- If you are unable to seek medical assistance, and can not stay with the person yourself, ensure they are in the company of an individual who is aware of the situation and has more naloxone.
It is crucial to be cautious when purchasing any medications online, including fentanyl. Many websites that claim to sell prescription medications without a prescription are operating illegally and may provide counterfeit or dangerous drugs. Additionally, providing personal and financial information to these sites can put you at risk for identity theft.
Then, if and when they want to change their use – maybe stop, reduce or switch to a safer drug – we’re here for them. The Food and Drug Administration the week of Oct. 23 cleared for marketing the first over-the-counter test to detect fentanyl in urine. The agency expedited review of the Alltest Fentanyl Urine Test Cassette, clearing it only 16 days after the submission was received. In Philadelphia, there are a few ways to get naloxone and test strips and learn to use them.
Is OxyContin still available?
Oxycodone is only available on prescription. It comes as slow-release tablets, standard tablets and capsules, and a liquid that you swallow.
If you suspect someone is misusing fentanyl or if you have concerns about your own use, seek help immediately. There are resources available to assist individuals struggling with substance abuse, and it is important to address any issues before they escalate.
In conclusion, the safest and legal way to obtain fentanyl is through a licensed healthcare provider with a valid prescription. Do not attempt to buy fentanyl illegally or online without a prescription. Your health and safety should always be a top priority.
Is Percocet the same as oxycodone?
Percocet and oxycodone are both opioid drugs that can relieve pain. Oxycodone is a generic ingredient in many branded drugs. Percocet is the brand name of a medication that contains oxycodone and acetaminophen.