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Naloxone temporarily knocks the opioids out of the opioid receptors in the brain, this will trigger normal breathing. However, depending on how much opioids the person has in their system, they could experience a second potentially fatal overdose because the naloxone wears off in about minutes. For this reason, we recommend the individual seek medical attention to ensure they are in the company of someone with additional naloxone in case a second overdose occurs. It’s also important for the person experiencing an overdose not to take any more drugs or alcohol within (at least) a three hour period.
- When these drugs became harder to get for nonmedical use, heroin use increased.
- Nationwide, more than 71,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses in 2021, a 23% increase over 2020.
- The Washington State Standard is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news outlet that provides original reporting, analysis and commentary on Washington state government and politics.
- You can use a micro scoop and a bottle cap to test a portion of your drugs.
- This project aimed to identify a potential tool they can use to prevent overdose deaths and engage with people who use opioids to help them move toward addiction treatment and other services.
Even a little bit can get cross-contaminated if you’re using the same surface to cut, bag, or weigh a substance. The inexpensive strips have been embraced by treatment organizations as a way to reduce harms from illicit drug use. Nearly 40 states have legalized their use, according to the Network for Public Health Law. 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.
Robert is a 33-year-old man with piercing blue eyes and tightly cropped brown hair who grew up in a small town in Eastern Washington. He was introduced to opioids as a teenager when a neighbor handed him a fistful of prescription pills in exchange for mowing her lawn. Eventually, he started injecting heroin, which helped numb the pain after his best friend died of an overdose and his mother died of cancer. Two ‘select all that apply’ questions regarding perceived benefits and barriers of FTS at the pharmacy were created utilizing the previous harm reduction literature [5, 10, 17].
Understanding Fentanyl: Where Can I Buy Fentanyl?
It started with the overprescribing of prescription pain relievers. When these drugs became harder to get for nonmedical use, heroin use increased. Today, illegally manufactured fentanyl and other opioids are being mixed with other drugs.
Sometimes, drug users don’t know that the drugs they buy are laced with fentanyl and unknowingly ingest the synthetic opioid, leading to overdoses. By using fentanyl testing strips to determine whether the opioid is present in their drugs, users can avoid overdosing on the powerful opioid. Experts say that could keep them alive until the time in which they are ready to start moving off drugs. We’ve seen that with naloxone [used to treat overdose] and naloxone distribution.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is often used to treat severe pain, particularly in patients with cancer or those recovering from surgery. Due to its potency, it is critical to approach any discussion about where can I buy fentanyl with caution and awareness of the associated risks.
No matter the result from using fentanyl test strips, having naloxone nearby is key to saving a life in case an opioid overdose does happen. Naloxone can reverse any opioid overdose, whether it’s from heroin, fentanyl, or analogues like carfentanil. If you don’t have naloxone on hand during an opioid overdose, rescue breaths are essential. They’re important because we live in an era of contaminated drug supply. The illicit drugs (meaning those that people buy outside of a pharmacy or from an unregulated source) have become incredibly contaminated. For example, substances that were formerly sold as heroin in Massachusetts are almost entirely illicitly manufactured fentanyl.
The Dangers of Buying Fentanyl
Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal in many countries and can lead to serious legal consequences. Additionally, illicitly obtained fentanyl can be mixed with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose.
Legal Sources for Fentanyl
If you are a patient in need of fentanyl for legitimate medical reasons, here are the legal options:
- Prescription from a licensed physician: Always consult a healthcare professional before using fentanyl.
- Pharmacies: Fentanyl can be obtained at licensed pharmacies with a valid prescription.
- Hospital facilities: In some cases, fentanyl may be administered in a hospital setting for pain management.
Illegal Sources and Their Risks
Despite the risks, some individuals may still ask, where can I buy fentanyl illegally? It is crucial to understand the implications:
- Online marketplaces: This includes websites on the dark web that may sell fentanyl illegally.
- Street dealers: Fentanyl may be found in illegal drug markets, often mixed with other substances.
FAQs about Fentanyl
What is fentanyl used for?
Fentanyl is primarily used to manage severe pain, particularly in medical settings. It is significantly stronger than morphine.
Is it safe to use fentanyl obtained outside of a prescription?
No, using fentanyl without a prescription poses severe health risks, including addiction and overdose.
What should I do if I suspect an overdose?
In the event of a suspected overdose, seek immediate medical assistance. Call emergency services and administer naloxone if available.
Understanding where can I buy fentanyl safely and legally is essential in the fight against opioid misuse and its tragic consequences. Always approach this substance with respect for its power and the laws governing its use.
