000% Rise In Street Drug Samples Testing Positive For Fentanyl
“I have directed my office to treat addiction as a disease, not a crime, and we will not prosecute individuals for simply possessing fentanyl test strips, which are categorized by the state as drug paraphernalia. These test strips save lives and by distributing them, the city is giving those struggling with substance use disorder a tool to avoid overdosing. Fentanyl is a poison ravaging our neighborhoods and is largely responsible for the dramatic uptick in overdose deaths we have suffered over the past year,” said Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. While there is more direct to customer traffic through the mail, many order synthetic opioids to distribute. These fake prescription drugs can have very unpredictable strength and pose significant overdose risks to would-be users. The powerful opioid fentanyl has been found in everything from methamphetamine and cocaine to marijuana and fake Adderall pills.
Understanding Fentanyl: Risks and Considerations
Because fentanyl and other synthetics are so much stronger, they take up a lot less space and can be much more easily hidden in other products. For example, it can be hidden in fake “Silica Gel” packets and included with another product, and was uncovered by the Globe and Mail. And because these drugs are synthetics, they can be produced in factories without leaving much of a supply chain to tip off investigators. Synthetic opioids, which have dramatically increased in availability and popularity, can be far more powerful than heroin — and therefore easier to move without detection.
A warrant was out for his arrest on drug charges in San Francisco. The shift of Portland’s drug market toward the downtown core coincided with the arrival of a new group of dealers. Spurred by complaints, Mayor Ted Wheeler and the neighborhood association agreed in March 2022 to a crackdown, marked by an increased police presence and subtle streetscape shifts. The notorious wooden benches along Northwest 5th Avenue disappeared. Narcan, the most common form of Naloxone is absorbed through mucous membranes, which means it can be easily administered as a nasal spray and does not require active breathing to work.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is significantly stronger than morphine and heroin. Due to its potency, it carries a high risk of overdose and addiction.
The reversing agent is administered through a nasal spray reversing the effect of an opioid overdose, in particular, fentanyl. Fentanyl use can increase your risk of overdose, especially if you do not regularly use opioids. Anyone who uses drugs that may contain fentanyl, even occasionally, may be at risk of overdose. The mortality rates from fentanyl consumption and increasing enforcement actions against dealers have even spooked many cybercriminals into steering clear from facilitating its trade. Dark web drugs market operators and vendors are aware of the increased law enforcement scrutiny and seizure efforts that arise from stocking fentanyl – resulting in many banning them outright. 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.
Before discussing how to buy fentanyl, it’s essential to be aware of the implications surrounding its use.
When a person survives an overdose, it’s because someone was present, recognized that the person was overdosing, and responded to help them. Fentanyl mixed (adulterated) with xylazine has been declared an emerging drug threat (link) by the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy. FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — More and more young fentanyl users are turning to social media apps for their next Fentanyl high. This blog is provided for general informational purposes only. By using the blog, you agree that the information on this blog does not constitute legal, financial or any other form of professional advice. No relationship is created with you, nor any duty of care assumed to you, when you use this blog.
My hope is the test strips could become even more available so that someone could go to a drugstore, pharmacy, or convenience store and be able to purchase them. We want multiple touchpoints and multiple avenues for people to be able to empower themselves and stay safe. There’s a lot of urban legend out there about the intentional contamination of drugs, but that doesn’t really make any sense. I think the reason that myth perpetuates is that there’s a lot of stigma and stereotype when we think about the people who are selling or using drugs. A test consists of a little white rectangle that you dip into a liquid substance that contains a drug, and it will test for whether fentanyl is present or not. You lay it flat, and — like a pregnancy test or like a COVID test — after two to five minutes, it will show results.
What You Need to Know Before Purchasing Fentanyl
- Delaware operates a mail order program where residents can order 10 free test strips.
- The kits also included a NEXT Distro card, which is a mail-based program where people can receive free Narcan and fentanyl test strips.
- Even daily opioid users who know that fentanyl is in their product have no way of knowing the amount.
- If you’re using pills, you’ll need to crush a pill on a clean surface before dissolving it in 1 tablespoon of water.
- Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids — including fentanyl.
Purchasing fentanyl can involve serious legal and health risks. Here are important considerations:
- Legal Issues: Fentanyl is a controlled substance in many countries. Obtaining it without a prescription is illegal.
- Health Risks: Misuse of fentanyl can lead to severe health complications, including respiratory failure and death.
- Dependence: Opioids can lead to physical and psychological dependence, making withdrawal difficult.
- Overdose Potential: Due to its potency, even a small amount of fentanyl can be fatal.
Methods of Acquisition
If you still wish to obtain fentanyl, it is crucial to understand the legal avenues available:
- Prescription: Consult a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and, if necessary, a prescription for fentanyl.
- Pharmacies: If prescribed, you can legally purchase fentanyl at licensed pharmacies.
- Hospitals: In some cases, fentanyl may be administered in a clinical setting under medical supervision.
FAQs about Fentanyl
Is it safe to use fentanyl?
When used as prescribed by a healthcare professional, fentanyl can be safe. However, misuse poses serious health risks.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
If someone is suspected of fentanyl overdose, call emergency services immediately. Administer naloxone if available and trained to do so.
Can I get fentanyl online?
Purchasing fentanyl online is illegal and can be dangerous due to the risk of counterfeit products.
What are alternatives to fentanyl for pain management?
Consult your healthcare provider about other pain management options which may include non-opioid medications, physical therapy, or alternative therapies.
Conclusion
Understanding how to buy fentanyl involves recognizing the legal, health, and ethical aspects of its purchase and use. Always prioritize safety and legality by consulting healthcare professionals.
