Can Fentanyl Use Lead To Addiction?
According to the Department of Justice, F.O.R.T. is a multiagency team composed of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Fresno Police Department. FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — More and more young fentanyl users are turning to social media apps for their next Fentanyl high. There are many ways to do this, but one of the most popular is pouring the water into a flat-bottomed glass or ceramic dish (like a Pyrex pie dish) and heating it. Other methods involve double boilers, air evaporation (for small quantities), or even blow driers. Use a milligram scale to get the weight of the crystals or powder you are going to test.
People use fentanyl because it is cheap to manufacture and a small amount goes a long way. Many individuals consume fentanyl without knowledge while others use it intentionally because of its potency. That being said, those fighting substance use disorders who are willing to take the potentially fatal risks that come with consuming illicit pills can reduce their chances of overdosing by using FTS. Michael Marquesen first noticed about a year ago that fentanyl, a dangerous synthetic opioid, had hit the streets of Los Angeles.
Understanding Fentanyl
A tiny amount – as little as two grains of salt – is enough to kill someone. With information from the test, a person can take steps to reduce their risk of an overdose. In Wisconsin, fentanyl is present in many drugs, including cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, as well as pills made to resemble prescription medications. Because fentanyl is unable to be detected by sight, taste, smell, or touch, people taking drugs not purchased from a licensed pharmacy should always use fentanyl test strips. Fentanyl test strips do not provide information about the amount or strength of fentanyl in a drug supply.
Unlike other strips on the market, they do not produce false positives with meth, MDMA, or cocaine. Some states consider them drug paraphernalia (items you need to consume drugs). For example, fentanyl test strips remain illegal in Texas despite their ability to save lives by preventing fatal overdoses. Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative that is approved by FDA for animal use, but not for people.
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. Fentanyl has been found in not just heroin, but cocaine, methamphetamine, counterfeit pills, and other street drugs. Testing every time before you use may not be enough, and some drugs like weed don’t need to be tested at all. Opioid overdose deaths are increasing at a devastating rate and many point to fentanyl alone as the culprit.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically for pain relief but has also gained notoriety for its illegal use and the associated risks. Understanding where it can be obtained, legally or illegally, is crucial for public safety.
Medical Use of Fentanyl
In a medical context, fentanyl is prescribed for severe pain management, particularly in cancer patients or those recovering from surgery. It is available in several forms, including:
When Sim started selling it he had just graduated high school where he had top grades, good parents and before he turned 20, a major drug operation going between a house and apartment he rented. But unlike heroin, which requires the poppy plant, fentanyl is a synthetic drug that’s easy to make with the right precursor ingredients. Prescription fentanyl has been around for years, intended for chronic severe pain, trauma and cancer patients. Brand names include Actiq, Duragesic, and Sublimaze where the drug is administered through a patch, injection or lollipop. Fentanyl the prescription drug and fentanyl inside a heroin bag come from very different sources, although both can be abused.
- Patches
- Lozenges
- Injectable solutions
- Nasal sprays
They may be selling cocaine and also selling opioids or fentanyl. If they’re doing that in their home, it’s not like being in a regulated laboratory where pharmaceutical drugs are being made, packaged, and distributed. Even a little bit can get cross-contaminated if you’re using the same surface to cut, bag, or weigh a substance.
Mississippi, Ohio and South Dakota have joined about 20 other states, including New York, where the strips were already legal. And bills to legalize them are pending in almost every remaining state where they are still barred, as they are considered drug paraphernalia. Opioid use disorder is a medical condition that can affect anyone who uses opioids.
These medications can only be legally acquired through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Where Do You Buy Fentanyl Legally?
To legally purchase fentanyl, follow these steps:
- Visit a healthcare professional for an evaluation and prescription.
- Obtain the prescription from the healthcare provider.
- Go to a licensed pharmacy that carries fentanyl products.
- Present your prescription at the pharmacy to receive the medication.
Illegal Purchase of Fentanyl
Illegally, fentanyl can be found through various underground channels. This poses serious health risks and is against the law. Some common places include:
- Naloxone can reverse any opioid overdose, whether it’s from heroin, fentanyl, or analogues like carfentanil.
- It can also be found in pills from nonmedical sources, pressed into counterfeit pills to look like prescription painkillers or benzodiazepines, such as Xanax® Klonopin®, and Valium®.
- When comparing the years between 2019 and 2021 in Georgia, all drug overdose deaths increased by 56%.
- An additional six participants reported regular opioid use in combination with at least one stimulant.
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- Online dark web markets
- Street dealers
- Fake pharmaceutical websites
Purchasing fentanyl illegally can lead to severe legal consequences and potentially fatal overdoses due to the high potency of the drug.
Risks Associated with Fentanyl Use
The use of fentanyl, particularly outside of medical guidelines, carries significant risks:
- Overdose: Even small amounts can lead to respiratory failure.
- Addiction: Users can develop a dependence on fentanyl quickly.
- Contamination: Illegally obtained fentanyl may be mixed with other substances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can fentanyl be used for chronic pain management?
Yes, fentanyl is often prescribed for chronic pain, but it must be managed by a healthcare professional to minimize risks.
2. What should I do if I suspect fentanyl abuse?
If you suspect someone is abusing fentanyl, it is essential to seek help from a medical or addiction specialist.
3. Is it safe to buy fentanyl online?
No, purchasing fentanyl online from unverified sources is extremely dangerous and illegal.
In summary, fentanyl is a potent medication with significant risks when misused. Understanding where to buy fentanyl legally and the potential dangers of illegal acquisition can help individuals make informed choices and prioritize safety.