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At least 10 of the 15 states where fentanyl test strips remain illegal are actively working to decriminalize their use, according to an email from a representative of the harm reduction organization SAFE Project. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies, like Percocet and Xanax. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These particular pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that has gained attention in recent years due to its role in the ongoing opioid crisis. This highly addictive substance is often used as a pain medication, but it can also be illegally manufactured and sold on the black market. If you’re searching for where to buy fentanyl, it’s important to understand the risks involved.
How to use fentanyl test strips
The Dangers of Illegally Purchasing Fentanyl
Refer to the Save Lives Oregon “Reverse Opioid Overdose with Naloxone Nasal Spray” guide (pdf) for the six steps to reverse an opioid overdose. Xylaxine is a powerful non-opioid sedative used in veterinary medicine. Xylazine is not approved or safe for human use in any amounts. When fentanyl or other opioids are mixed with xylazine, the effects on breathing can be life-threatening. Fentanyl test strips aren’t legal everywhere because some states consider them to be drug paraphernalia (items you need to do drugs). But a growing number of health and public policy experts are supporting their use along with other harm-reduction strategies.
Buying fentanyl from illicit sources poses significant health risks. The main danger lies in the fact that the drug’s potency can vary greatly, making it incredibly easy to overdose. Even a small miscalculation in dosage can have fatal consequences.
Office of Addiction Services and Supports
Effects of Fentanyl:
- Respiratory depression: Fentanyl slows down breathing, which can lead to oxygen deprivation and potential organ failure.
- Addiction: Due to its high potency, fentanyl can quickly cause physical dependence and addiction, leading to a downward spiral of drug-seeking behavior.
- Overdose: Fentanyl overdose can result in respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest, and ultimately death if immediate medical attention is not received.
Fentanyl test strips can identify the presence of fentanyl in unregulated drugs. They can be used to test injectable drugs, powders, and pills. Fentanyl moving through the street market comes in a powder form and can be injected, smoked, or snorted.
Related support groups
Prescription versus Illicit Fentanyl
- These include online 24/7 tools, groups and workshops, multicultural counseling, one-on-one services and more.
- Fentanyl is mixed with other drugs (including heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine) to increase potency, and sometimes it is sold as powders or pills made to look like legitimate prescription drugs, the U.S.
- 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.
- Look for public health agencies or organizations in your area that offer free or low-cost fentanyl test strips.
- Participating organizations have access to an unlimited supply of packages.
In some states test strips are legal only if they are acquired from harm reduction programs or syringe exchange programs. It’s important to note that test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl but not how much is present or its strength. Some forms, like Carfentanil which is used as an elephant tranquilizer, are more far potent than others. If there is a new variation or analog, the test strip likely won’t catch it until manufacturers add it to their products. They were originally designed to check urine for fentanyl, but harm reduction advocates found that the tests could work when a little bit of the product was mixed with water. If you live in King County you may be able to order free fentanyl test strips through an online order form.
Fentanyl can be legally prescribed by healthcare professionals for severe and chronic pain management. However, it should only be used under strict medical supervision. When obtained through legitimate channels, pharmaceutical-grade fentanyl carries less risk of contamination and inconsistent potency.
Obtaining Fentanyl Legally:
- Schedule an appointment with your doctor or pain specialist to discuss your pain management needs.
- Provide a detailed medical history, including any previous opioid use or substance abuse issues.
- If deemed necessary, your healthcare provider may prescribe fentanyl or recommend alternative pain management strategies.
Seeking Help for Substance Abuse
Fentanyl Disguised as Pills Like Adderall or Xanax Can Be a Special Threat to Teens
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it’s crucial to seek help immediately. Substance abuse professionals and treatment centers can provide the necessary support and guidance to overcome addiction and regain control of your life.
Remember, when it comes to purchasing fentanyl, always choose the legal and safer path by consulting a healthcare professional. The risks associated with buying this drug illicitly are simply not worth taking.
