Fentanyl: Deadly Dope You Can Buy Online
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Legality
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is primarily used in medical settings to treat severe pain. It is significantly stronger than morphine and is typically prescribed for patients who have developed a tolerance to other opioids.
Given these differences by major age group, we return to the lens of co-ingestants within age group, focusing on deaths involving synthetic opioids without heroin. That is, we divide the 2840 deaths in the Venn diagram above into those under 30 and those 30 and over and make new Venn diagrams to compare co-ingestant combinations. Whereas just over 25% of these deaths involve methamphetamine, over 46% of deaths among those 30 and older involving synthetic opioids and not heroin had meth listed on the death certificate as contributing to death. The older group is much more likely to also have methadone and/or other commonly prescribed opioids involved (and, not shown, 25% more likely to have antidepressants involved). The younger group is 71% more likely to have none of these other drugs involved beyond the synthetic opioids.
Cruelly, about one in every 25 of those deaths was a child 19 or younger, according to the latest data from the California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard. In 2020, there were 812 overdose deaths in Wisconsin where illegally manufactured fentanyl was considered to be probable or suspected in contributing cause of death. Recognizing the value of fentanyl test strips in reducing the harms of drug use, Gov. Tony Evers signed legislation in March to allow the test strips to be used in Wisconsin.
Due to its potency, fentanyl is highly regulated. The question arises: can I buy fentanyl without a prescription? The answer is complex and varies depending on laws and regulations in different countries or regions.
Rescue breaths are critical for people who have used xylazine because it causes breathing to slow down. Harm reduction experts also recommend rolling the person who has overdosed onto their side with their top knee bent, in the recovery position. Drugs may contain deadly levels of fentanyl, and you wouldn’t be able to see it, taste it, or smell it. It is nearly impossible to tell if drugs have been laced with fentanyl unless you test your drugs with fentanyl test strips.
Many individuals consume fentanyl without knowledge while others use it intentionally because of its potency. The rescheduling of pharmaceuticals that include codeine will tighten access to these drugs from 1 February. This makes now a timely moment to consider some of the wider measures that GPs can take to improve patient outcomes and avoid the over-prescription of some medications. This classroom-style training offers an informative presentation to a small group in 30 to 45 minutes, with plenty of time for questions and practice. Participants will learn how to recognize and appropriately respond to an opioid overdose.
It is a temporary treatment – so you should still call 911 if someone responds to the medicine. Reading or hearing stories about the opioid crisis, overdoses and deaths can be scary. It’s important to know that accidental opioid overdoses are dangerous, but preventable. Here’s some information so you can stay informed, aware, and safer around fentanyl and other opioids. Fentanyl is also often found in counterfeit pressed pills made to look like oxycodone (M30s), Xanax, and other prescription pills. Other conditions can put someone at risk of a fentanyl overdose.
However, most fentanyl-involved deaths are due to illicitly made fentanyl, and a small amount is enough to cause an overdose. California has set aside $4 million to distribute fentanyl testing strips as part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s $1 billion overall plan to address the crisis. Naloxone is a prescription medicine that reverses opioid overdoses. It temporarily blocks the effect of opioids and helps a person to start breathing again.
If a person is not breathing, or if they are unresponsive, seek help straight away. “It’s stronger than your willpower,” he said of the drug’s pull. The subcommittee identified more than 500 sales, totaling $230,000, that involved the six online sellers. The greatest number of purchases came from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida. “It’s nice to not have to use your veins or not inject, and so a lot of people would prefer not to be doing that,” Kral said.
Can I Buy Fentanyl Without a Prescription?
In most countries, including the United States, the answer is no. Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and is only available through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
- Naloxone is available as an injectable (needle) solution and nasal sprays (NARCAN® and KLOXXADO®).
- The DEA sampled tablets seized nationwide between January and March 2019.
- In 2021, the San Diego County Medical Examiner reported 12 children under the age of 18 died from an accidental overdose — the youngest was just 13.
- Naloxone is available at many pharmacies in Texas without a prescription.
- The older group is much more likely to also have methadone and/or other commonly prescribed opioids involved (and, not shown, 25% more likely to have antidepressants involved).
Here are some key points regarding the legality of purchasing fentanyl:
- **Prescription Requirement**: Fentanyl can only be legally dispensed to individuals who have a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional.
- **Medical Use**: It is typically prescribed for patients who are experiencing severe pain, such as those undergoing major surgery or dealing with advanced cancer.
- **Illegal Purchase**: Attempting to purchase fentanyl without a prescription, or through illegal means, poses significant legal risks and health dangers.
- **Risks of Overdose**: The use of fentanyl without medical supervision greatly increases the risk of overdose, which can be fatal.
Why Is Fentanyl So Strictly Regulated?
The regulations surrounding fentanyl stem from its potency and the risks associated with its misuse. Some reasons include:
- **High Potency**: Just a small amount of fentanyl can lead to overdose, making it dangerous for those not under medical supervision.
- **Increased Overdose Rates**: The opioid crisis has raised awareness about the dangers of opioid misuse, leading to stricter regulations.
- **Illicit Manufacturing**: Illegally manufactured fentanyl has contributed to a spike in overdose deaths, prompting lawmakers to enact stringent control measures.
FAQs Regarding Fentanyl Purchases
1. What if I need fentanyl for pain management?
If you require fentanyl for legitimate medical reasons, consult your healthcare provider. They will evaluate your condition and determine if a prescription is appropriate.
2. Are there alternatives to fentanyl?
Yes, there are various opioids and non-opioid medications available for pain management. Your doctor can help identify which option is best for you.
3. What are the consequences of buying fentanyl without a prescription?
Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription can lead to criminal charges, potential imprisonment, and serious health risks.
4. How can I safely manage severe pain?
Engage with a healthcare professional to receive a comprehensive pain management plan tailored to your needs, ensuring all medications are used safely and legally.
Conclusion
Understanding the legality and risks of fentanyl is crucial for anyone considering its use. The question, can I buy fentanyl without a prescription?, emphasizes the importance of legal boundaries and the necessity of medical oversight. Always prioritize safety and compliance with the law when it comes to pain management.
