Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has gained notoriety in recent years due to its contribution to the opioid crisis. With its high potential for abuse and dependence, it is crucial to understand the dangers associated with this substance and why purchasing it is illegal in many countries.
We hypothesized that those who had ever overdosed would be more willing to use the test strips. Fentanyl is a powerful, fast-acting opioid that increases the risk of overdose. Very often, it is mixed in with other drugs, such as heroin, coke, crack, and pressed pills, and is very difficult to detect.
The Dangers of Fentanyl
The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Newsroom
Fentanyl is approximately 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine and even more potent than heroin. It is primarily used in medical settings for severe pain management or as an anesthesia adjunct during surgery. However, illicitly manufactured fentanyl has flooded the streets, posing serious threats to public health.
- There are no negative side effects of using Naloxone and no potential for misuse or dependence.
- There is no limit on the number of fentanyl test strips that someone can receive through this program.
- Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
- 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.
- The National Harm Reduction online Naloxone finding resource also identifies physical locations in a community that offer fentanyl test strips for free.
- It can be purchased from a pharmacy (even without a prescription) or may be distributed by different organizations within your community.
Abusing fentanyl can have severe consequences, including:
‘We’re done with dead kids’: U.S. bars are handing out free fentanyl tests
- Overdose: Due to its potency, even small amounts of fentanyl can lead to a life-threatening overdose. The risk is further exacerbated when mixed with other substances, such as heroin or cocaine.
- Respiratory Depression: Fentanyl depresses the central nervous system, slowing down breathing to dangerous levels. This respiratory suppression can result in permanent brain damage or death.
- Addiction: Fentanyl is highly addictive, both physically and psychologically. Prolonged use can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and a cycle of substance abuse.
The Legal Status of Fentanyl
It works by rapidly binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of opioid drugs. But fentanyl is stronger than other opioid drugs like morphine and might require multiple doses of naloxone. It’s importnat to know that fentanyl test strips are not fool proof.
In most countries, including the United States, buying fentanyl without a valid prescription is illegal. Governments have implemented strict regulations to control its distribution and minimize its misuse.
It is essential to note that attempting to purchase fentanyl online or through illicit sources is highly dangerous and unlawful.
Avoid an Overdose
In 2022, the drug was involved in 90% of fatal opioid overdoses in the state and 65% of all overdose deaths, according to the University of Washington’s Addictions, Drug and Alcohol Institute. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. We report here the results of the baseline survey and the outcomes of the fentanyl strip test training and receipt of the take-home tests. It’s important to make sure people know about fentanyl test strips because, if they’re buying a substance off the streets of Philly, they should assume there is fentanyl present in it. It only takes a few minutes to use fentanyl test strips so people can make informed choices for safer use.
Why is Buying Fentanyl Dangerous?
Purchasing fentanyl illegally online or through illicit sources carries significant risks, such as:
The risk is especially high among persons who are not tolerant to the drugs effects (opioid-naïve) and may not be aware that the drugs they use contain fentanyl. Because fentanyl is so potent, its use in people who are naïve to fentanyl use can quickly lead to overdose and death. No drug has fueled the current spike in overdose deaths more than fentanyl. The synthetic opioid claimed two thirds of the record 64,000 such fatalities in the U.S. in 2016. More than 1,900 people have died of illicit drug overdoses in B.C. Since the province declared a public health emergency nearly two years ago.
- Unknown Quality and Dosage: Illicitly manufactured fentanyl often lacks quality control measures. The buyer cannot be certain of the potency or purity, increasing the risk of overdose or other adverse effects.
- Legal Consequences: Possessing or distributing fentanyl without a legitimate prescription can result in severe legal penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
- Supporting Criminal Networks: By purchasing fentanyl from illegal sources, individuals inadvertently support criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and further perpetuate the cycle of illicit drug trade.
Fighting the Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis continues to have devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Governments, healthcare professionals, and society as a whole must work together to address this pressing issue.
Fighting Fentanyl: The Practitioners
Key steps in combating the opioid crisis include:
- Education and Awareness: Spreading knowledge about the dangers of fentanyl and other opioids can help prevent substance abuse and reduce stigma surrounding addiction.
- Access to Treatment: Expanding access to evidence-based treatment options, such as medication-assisted therapy and counseling, can support individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
- Law Enforcement Measures: Governments should continue enforcing strict regulations on the production, distribution, and sale of opioids, including fentanyl, to disrupt illicit supply chains.
- Supporting Harm Reduction Strategies: Implementing harm reduction strategies, such as naloxone distribution and needle exchange programs, can help save lives and prevent fatal overdoses.
Remember, when it comes to fentanyl, your health and well-being are paramount. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, seek professional help immediately.
