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The rise in synthetic opioid deaths since 2015 has come during a downward trend in legal sales of fentanyl. Opioid overdoses occur when the body experiences an excessive amount of opioids, leading to life-threatening symptoms, including slowed breathing, loss of consciousness, and death. These situations can arise from the misuse of prescription pain medications or illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl, as well as the ingestion of substances unknowingly laced with an opioid like fentanyl. Substances that could be laced with fentanyl include counterfeit prescription medications, cannabis/marijuana, and other illicit drugs, such as heroin, molly/ecstasy, and cocaine. Taking illegally manufactured fentanyl is unsafe and can cause a fatal overdose. But it is very difficult to know whether illicit drugs contain fentanyl.
- Fentanyl mixed with any drug increases the likelihood of a fatal overdose.
- The President’s FY2024 budget also proposes an increase in funding for efforts to reduce the supply of illicit drugs like fentanyl and combat drug trafficking.
- Very few teens who are choosing to consume an addictive and potentially fatal drug will be swayed by a color,” says Dr. Peterson.
- At one pharmacy in Cabo San Lucas, a worker warned that “a lot of people sell fake medication” — and even offered reporters advice on how to spot it.
- Big-box outlets like Walgreens, CVS, Walmart and Rite Aid said they expected Narcan to be available online and on many store shelves early next week.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid pain medication that is commonly used to treat severe pain. However, due to its potency and potential for abuse, it is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in many countries.
Medication Disposal Drop Off Sites
Your health impacts how your body is able to respond to overdose and overamping. Before using, wash or sanitize your hands and any surfaces used to prepare the drugs. Then, use an alcohol wipe or soapy water to clean your injection site. Your tolerance for opioids (like oxy or fentanyl) could lower in as little as 3 – 7 days. Families with loved ones who have opioid use disorder should have naloxone on hand, experts advise. People with OUD should also carry it with them and let their friends know where it is, adds Dr. Hawk.
What is Fentanyl?
Ashley Perry, Intervention Case Manager from Project Weber/RENEW, explains how to use a fentanyl test strip. Before having any laboratory test (especially those that involve methylene blue), tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are using fentanyl. You may bathe, swim, or shower while you are wearing a fentanyl patch. If the patch falls off during these activities, dispose of it properly. Do not place patches in your mouth or chew or swallow the patches.
Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, increasing dopamine levels and producing feelings of euphoria and pain relief. It is estimated to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and can have devastating effects if misused or abused.
Distribution part of efforts to reduce drug overdose deaths
Prescription Requirements
However, it’s important to know that a negative result does not mean there is no fentanyl present. It is possible for fentanyl to exist in an untested area of a pill or for the pill to contain a different synthetic opioid product. Start with a very small dose every time you use something that could be contaminated with fentanyl. Because fentanyl is often mixed in with other substances in large batches, the amount present in a single pill or drug can vary widely.
In most countries, fentanyl is available only through prescription. This means that you cannot buy fentanyl over the counter without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
The strict regulations surrounding fentanyl are in place to prevent misuse and diversion for illicit purposes. The misuse of fentanyl can lead to addiction, respiratory depression, overdose, and even death.
A person overdosing on opioids may need more than one dose of naloxone and more time for it to work (2-3 minutes). Parents should advise their kids to avoid any and all pills and powders of an unknown source — especially any drugs purchased on Snapchat or other online media. Many fentanyl pills are pressed to look like oxycodone or morphine tablets, except they contain only fentanyl. Trusting that these tablets are the drug they are impersonating can be dangerous, as fentanyl is many times as potent as most other opioids. Making naloxone available without a prescription expands its availability to people who use opioids and are at risk for overdose.
What is naloxone, and how does it prevent an opioid overdose?
Dangers of Obtaining Fentanyl Illegally
Illicitly manufactured powdered fentanyl looks just like many other drugs. It is commonly mixed with drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, or made into pills that resemble other prescription opioids. In its liquid form, illicitly manufactured fentanyl can be found in nasal sprays and eye drops, and it can be dropped onto paper or small candies. It may not fully reverse the effects of potent opioids like fentanyl, and multiple doses may be required. Naloxone is not a substitute for emergency medical care, so it is crucial to call 911 immediately when an overdose is suspected, regardless of whether naloxone is used.
Living With a Substance Use Disorder?
Attempting to buy fentanyl without a prescription is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. Illicitly obtained fentanyl may be manufactured in unregulated environments, leading to variations in potency and unknown substances being mixed with the drug.
These factors increase the risk of overdose and other severe health complications. Additionally, purchasing fentanyl illegally supports the black market and illegal drug trade, perpetuating the cycle of drug abuse and criminal activity.
Legal Consequences
If caught attempting to buy or sell fentanyl without a prescription, individuals may face serious legal consequences. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record, which can have long-lasting effects on employment prospects and personal relationships.
Seeking Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction or requires pain management, it is crucial to seek help from a medical professional. They can provide appropriate guidance, offer alternative treatments, and ensure the safe and legal use of prescription medications.
In Conclusion
Buying fentanyl over the counter is not possible due to its high potential for abuse and associated risks. It is essential to follow the proper channels and obtain fentanyl through a legitimate prescription to ensure safety and legality. Remember, seeking professional guidance is key in managing pain and preventing substance abuse.
