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Understanding Fentanyl: An Overview
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically to treat severe pain, often after surgery or for advanced cancer patients. However, its potency has led to significant misuse and overdose risks.
Education about and access to harm-reduction materials like Fentanyl test strips change the behaviors of people who use drugs, therefore reducing risk. Measures like this are vital to fighting the Opioid epidemic, which in 2021 alone claimed over 8,200 Floridians. Deaths from accidental drug overdoses in Florida have increased by nearly 31% since 2019. The move to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips comes after an alarming spike in the number of overdose deaths in recent years. Fentanyl test strips, which are backed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have been shown in numerous studies to reduce the risk of overdose. Like heroin, morphine, and other opioid drugs, fentanyl works by binding to the body’s opioid receptors, which are found in areas of the brain that control pain and emotions.
In addition, we can often refer you to facilities that charge on a sliding fee scale or accept Medicare or Medicaid. If you have health insurance, you are encouraged to contact your insurer for a list of participating health care providers and facilities. Robert is a 33-year-old man with piercing blue eyes and tightly cropped brown hair who grew up in a small town in Eastern Washington. He was introduced to opioids as a teenager when a neighbor handed him a fistful of prescription pills in exchange for mowing her lawn. Eventually, he started injecting heroin, which helped numb the pain after his best friend died of an overdose and his mother died of cancer.
If you have a fever or chills, seek medical care as soon as possible. Remember Missouri’s Good Samaritan Law protects you and the person overdosing from arrest for possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia. Your tolerance for opioids (like oxy or fentanyl) could lower in as little as 3 – 7 days. CallClick here to find the health department location closest to you. Each bag can deactivate and destroy up to 45 pills, 6 ounces of liquid, or 6 patches. To use, place unused medication in bag and fill halfway with warm tap water; wait 30 seconds, seal tightly, gently shake bag, and dispose in normal trash can.
The Risks of Fentanyl Use
Before considering any purchases related to fentanyl, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences:
- Naloxone’s effects are temporary, so it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately after it is administered.
- The program not only educates parents and students but also school officials including administrators and teachers.
- In San Francisco, they’re known as “commuter drug dealers” due to the fact that they tend to stay in the cheaper East Bay and take the BART downtown.
- Many of those fentanyl-laced drugs were purchased over clandestine social media apps like TikTok, Snapchat, and Wickr.
- High Addiction Potential: Fentanyl is significantly more potent than morphine.
- Risk of Overdose: Even a small amount can be deadly, especially if mixed with other substances.
- Legal Implications: Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.
Further work should investigate whether PWUD would be willing to purchase FTS from pharmacies. Future work should explore construct validity of these measures. We want to meet people where they’re at today with their drug use so that we can keep them with us and build that trust. 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.
City, county and state officials have failed, despite years of discussions, to open a replacement. In San Francisco, they’re known as “commuter drug dealers” due to the fact that they tend to stay in the cheaper East Bay and take the BART downtown. People who use drugs that may contain Fentanyl should always carry or have access to Narcan, the lifesaving Opioid overdose drug also known as Naloxone. Narcan can be found in local pharmacies across the state and is available to anyone over 18 at no cost. It’s important to note that while Fentanyl testing strips have been decriminalized in the state of Florida, they may still remain “illegal,” meaning the law may still allow police to confiscate them. To best keep up with the legality of Fentanyl testing strips, it’s always important to check your local city or state ordinances.
Inpatient treatment programs are often a great option for those struggling with Fentanyl or other Opioid use. Here, patients can safely detox from drugs while under the supervision of medical professionals should any complications arise. Inpatient programs also offer treatment in the form of therapy, medication, and support groups that can help promote healthy coping skills to support sobriety after leaving. Read why Mission bars and Bay Area organizations are stocking up on fentanyl test strips and naloxone. And, why some have yet to add what one doctor calls ” the latest and greatest,” in helping to save lives.
How Can I Buy Fentanyl Safely?
Given the dangers associated with fentanyl, consider these points before attempting to purchase it:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider
Always reach out to a medical professional if you believe you need fentanyl for pain management. They can provide:
- Evaluation of your medical condition
- A prescription if deemed necessary
- Alternative pain management options
2. Use a Licensed Pharmacy
If you have a valid prescription, you can buy fentanyl from a licensed pharmacy. Steps include:
- Fill the prescription at a local pharmacy.
- Utilize online pharmacies that require prescriptions.
- Ensure the pharmacy is legitimate and licensed.
FAQs About Fentanyl
What should I do if I suspect an overdose?
Call emergency services immediately. Administer naloxone if available and trained to do so.
Is there a safe way to use fentanyl?
When prescribed by a medical professional and used as directed, fentanyl can be safe. Never use it without medical supervision.
What are the symptoms of fentanyl dependency?
Symptoms include increased tolerance, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and neglecting responsibilities.
Conclusion
Purchasing fentanyl is a serious matter that requires due diligence and a proper medical framework. Always prioritize safety and legality when considering any substance.
