Understanding Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, significantly stronger than morphine, which is used medically for pain management. However, its potency also leads to a high risk of overdose, making it a substance of interest and concern for many.
Illicit substances are highly unpredictable and can be mixed with lethal doses of fentanyl that can cause an overdose – even in very small amounts. Individuals who misuse stimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines) may be unknowingly exposing themselves to fentanyl, and as a result, become especially vulnerable to overdosing. Counterfeit pills, such as “blue oxys” and fake Xanax, have become increasingly available and are commonly laced with fentanyl. It can be used to save the life of someone experiencing a fentanyl-related overdose. As part of our harm reduction plan at UCSC Student Health Services, SHOP and the Cove have partnered to provide Naloxone and Fentanyl Testing Strips (FTS) to our students. Our aim is to keep students safe and reduce the risk of overdose death.
Where Can I Buy Fentanyl?
- We work directly with owners, employees, and customers in places related to nightlife, social clubs, and schools- where many fentanyl overdoses occur.
- CEO and founder Iqbal Sunderani said the state of California is his biggest customer.
- He died in early 2017 from “acute fentanyl intoxication.” He had received a package from an online seller just 30 days before his death.
- During times of individual and collective stress, there is a potential for increased opioid use as a way to self-medicate.
- According to the report, most of this fentanyl originates in China.
To obtain Narcan or fentanyl test strips please check the locations below. All locations are confidential and no identifying information is collected, retained or shared with any other agency including Law Enforcement. These sites are not affiliated with any Law Enforcement Agency and no Law Enforcement Officers are present. Fentanyl has proved dangerously difficult to recognize – and profitable to cut into other street drugs. A potentially lethal dose of fentanyl can be as little as two milligrams, equivalent in size to a few grains of salt.
If you’re asking where can I buy fentanyl, it’s essential to emphasize the dangers associated with obtaining this substance outside of medical channels. Fentanyl should only be purchased through legitimate healthcare providers or pharmacies. Here are some options:
Vital Records Data And Statistics
The Gazette spoke with Sarah Wakeman, the senior medical director for Substance Use Disorder at Mass General Brigham about the legal shift over use of the products. Being aware if fentanyl is present allows people to implement appropriate harm reduction strategies to reduce the risk of an overdose. Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay test strips designed to quickly and cheaply test urine for the presence of fentanyl. Routine testing for xylazine by the Oregon State Medical Examiner began in 2020. Since then, xylazine has been found in a small but increasing amount of overdose deaths in Oregon.
Prescription fentanyl has been around for years, intended for chronic severe pain, trauma and cancer patients. Brand names include Actiq, Duragesic, and Sublimaze where the drug is administered through a patch, injection or lollipop. Fentanyl the prescription drug and fentanyl inside a heroin bag come from very different sources, although both can be abused.
- Prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers: Fentanyl is prescribed for severe pain management and is available in various forms, including patches and lozenges.
- Legal pharmacies: Only buy fentanyl from certified pharmacies that require a valid prescription. This helps ensure both the authenticity of the product and the safety of the individual.
- Hospitals and clinics: In a hospital setting, fentanyl may be administered for pain management under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) analysis has found counterfeit pills ranging from .02 to 5.1 milligrams (more than twice the lethal dose) of fentanyl per tablet. In Seattle, the price of the dangerous opioid is as low as 40 cents a pill in wholesale bulk purchases, said Detective Judinna J. Gulpan, a spokesperson for the Seattle Police Department. However, the street price is usually around $3 to $5, Gulpan said.
Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for pain-management treatment of cancer patients. Illicitly manufactured, fentanyl is added to heroin, which is then disguised as highly potent heroin. Many users don’t realize that the heroin they are purchasing may contain fentanyl — which often results in overdose deaths.
We partner with a number of local organizations to make sure Naloxone and test strips are available city-wide. Below are a few of our partners that are able to provide regular access to resources. In Philadelphia, there are a few ways to get naloxone and test strips and learn to use them.
The Risks of Purchasing Fentanyl
Purchasing fentanyl from illicit sources carries significant risks:
- Overdose risk: The potency of fentanyl can lead to fatal overdoses, especially when mixed with other substances.
- Unknown sources: Illegally obtained fentanyl may be counterfeit or laced with other dangerous substances, increasing health risks.
- Legal consequences: Buying or possessing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and can lead to serious legal ramifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is fentanyl legal?
Fentanyl is legal when prescribed by a medical professional for legitimate medical use. Using it without a prescription is illegal and poses health risks.
Can I find fentanyl online?
While some websites may claim to sell fentanyl, purchasing from these sites is illegal and highly dangerous. Always consult a healthcare provider for legitimate prescriptions.
What are the side effects of fentanyl?
Common side effects of fentanyl include:
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Respiratory depression
- Dependency and withdrawal symptoms
How can I safely manage pain without fentanyl?
If you’re concerned about pain management without using fentanyl, consider discussing alternative treatments with a healthcare provider, such as:
- Non-opioid medications
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Conclusion
Understanding where can I buy fentanyl is crucial for safety and legal reasons. This potent opioid must be used responsibly and only under the guidance of a medical professional. Avoiding illegal purchases protects both your health and well-being.
