Fentanyl Test Strip Instructions
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Risks
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is commonly used in medical settings for pain management.
However, its illegal use has led to a significant increase in opioid-related overdoses and fatalities.
Given the gravity of the situation, it is crucial to understand where to buy fentanyl and the associated risks.
And people who use drugs have not forfeited their human rights, including the right to life and health. Most people in the U.S. use drugs, whether it’s caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine. A negative result does not guarantee that your drug sample is free from all synthetic opioids. Our new, improved fentanyl test strips can quickly and reliably detect fentanyl and most of its known analogs in a drug sample. Unlike other strips on the market, they do not produce false positives with meth, MDMA, or cocaine. Studies have shown that fentanyl test strips can increase awareness and lead to safety precautions to help prevent an overdose.
Why Is Fentanyl Dangerous?
In 2017, 59 percent of opioid-related deaths involved fentanyl compared to 14.3 percent in 2010. Research has shown the distribution and use of fentanyl test distribution to be an effective intervention against fentanyl overdose. In studies, up to 77 percent of individuals whose drugs tested positive for fentanyl took precautions to reduce their risk of overdose. Even though research has confirmed that fentanyl test strips are an accurate, low-cost, and relatively easy method of testing drugs for the presence of fentanyl, they aren’t always a 100% guarantee. Ideally, it’s best to use them every time you use, but it may not be realistic for everyone. Learning about drug myths is just as helpful a harm reduction and overdose prevention tool as fentanyl test strips.
Doing a tester shot, or using a smaller amount of a drug, can help you decide how strong your supply is and reduce the chance of overdose or overamping. If you are actively using drugs, testing for HIV and hepatitis C every six months can help keep you healthy. In 2014, the Pennsylvania Department of Health released a standing order, which allows anyone to visit a pharmacy and receive Naloxone without a prescription. The medication may not be available for same-day pickup, but it can often be ordered and available within a day or two.
Whether you are testing everything you intend to consume or a smaller portion of your drugs, you need to dilute the powder in the correct amount of water. Before using fentanyl test strips, it is critical to read and follow our instructions. You can read all about fentanyl test strips and how to use them correctly here. Even if you’ve used them before, the information on this page is still important.
- A health care professional may prescribe them as part of a treatment plan following an injury or surgery.
- You should also call 911, just like for any medical emergency, so extra help is on the way.
- Review and follow the full test strip information before use, as directions may vary among tests.
- Pharmacists perceived more barriers than benefits to selling FTS, indicating that FTS training should address ways to overcome barriers, including where to order FTS and how to initiate FTS conversations.
Despite its medical applications, fentanyl poses severe risks when misused. Some of the dangers include:
- High potency leading to overdose.
- Potential for addiction and dependency.
- Illicitly manufactured fentanyl may contain impurities.
One study found high amounts of methamphetamine, MDMA and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), a common cutting agent in heroin, can cause a false positive. The Washington State Standard is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news outlet that provides original reporting, analysis and commentary on Washington state government and politics. We seek to keep you informed about Washington’s most pressing issues, the decisions elected leaders are making, how they are spending tax dollars and who is influencing public policy. If you choose to use fentanyl, there are some practices that can help you minimize the risk of an overdose.
Many of the opioid pills and powders sold on the street are fake. They often contain fentanyl in potentially deadly amounts but are mislabeled as other opioids. The DEA sampled tablets seized nationwide between January and March 2019.
Submit a request for fentanyl test strips to be shipped to you at no cost. If your agency is providing free fentanyl test strips, let us know. Use the map below to find an organization or vending machine offering free fentanyl test strips near you or view a spreadsheet of all the locations (Excel).
Where to Buy Fentanyl Legally?
It is often added to other drugs because of its extreme potency, which makes drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous. Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are small strips of paper that are used detect the presence of fentanyl. Testing substances with a FTS will tell you if the drug contains fentanyl. They can be used to test drugs for traces of fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, allowing a person using drugs to know what they are putting into their body, and take the proper steps to prevent an overdose. For Robert, who’s motivated to get clean and get off the street, the process has been frustratingly slow. He says he’s on the waitlist at the county’s new downtown shelter.
If you are seeking fentanyl for legitimate medical purposes, here are the legal avenues:
- Prescription: The most legitimate way to obtain fentanyl is through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
- Pharmacies: Fentanyl can be dispensed at pharmacies that are authorized to sell controlled substances.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics may administer fentanyl directly as part of treatment.
Important Considerations
It is vital to take the following factors into account when obtaining fentanyl:
- Always use fentanyl as directed by a healthcare professional.
- Be aware of your local regulations regarding opioid prescriptions.
- Seek proper education on the usage and risks associated with fentanyl.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Illegally?
Purchasing fentanyl from illegal sources presents serious legal and health risks:
- Street Dealers: Fentanyl is often sold illegally on the street and may be mixed with other drugs.
- Online Marketplaces: Some websites may claim to sell fentanyl, but these sources are typically unregulated.
Warning: Engaging in illegal transactions for fentanyl can result in criminal charges and severe health consequences.
FAQs About Fentanyl
Q: Is fentanyl available over-the-counter?
A: No, fentanyl is a controlled substance and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Q: What should I do if I suspect someone has overdosed on fentanyl?
A: Call emergency services immediately and provide assistance if trained, such as administering naloxone if available.
Q: Can fentanyl be safely used at home?
A: Fentanyl can be used safely at home only if prescribed and monitored by a medical professional.
Conclusion
Understanding where to buy fentanyl is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with the law.
Always prioritize medical advice and be aware of the serious consequences associated with misuse.
Stay informed and make responsible choices regarding opioid medications.
