Get Fentanyl Test Strips
Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
- Participants also received resources which included fentanyl harm reduction suggestions, instructions on how to recognize an opioid overdose, and information on local resources.
- The Executive Order signed today represents the City’s agreement with these policies and a further step to support harm reduction strategies.
- In the US, where SIFs have not been legalized, FTS offer PWUD the option to test their own drugs in a private setting.
- Offers support for people seeking recovery or support from alcoholism.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fentanyl test strips (FTS) are a low-cost method of helping prevent drug overdoses and reducing harm. FTS are small strips of paper that can detect the presence of fentanyl in all different kinds of drugs (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin) and drug forms (pills, powder, and injectables). In 2022, 68% of the 107,081 reported drug overdose deaths were from synthetic opioids, mainly fentanyl.
This has long been a fear that if you give people tools to make something safer, they’re going to take greater risk. But we actually have really good evidence in the drug-use space that harm reduction interventions don’t encourage drug use. They may be selling cocaine and also selling opioids or fentanyl. If they’re doing that in their home, it’s not like being in a regulated laboratory where pharmaceutical drugs are being made, packaged, and distributed. Even a little bit can get cross-contaminated if you’re using the same surface to cut, bag, or weigh a substance.
In the past, many states didn’t allow people to own — or distribute — drug testing materials. In 34 states, and the District of Columbia, it’s legal to have fentanyl test strips, distribute them, or both. And even in states where it’s not strictly legal, people are rarely punished for using test strips.
If the person gets too much naloxone, try to explain to them that their withdrawal symptoms will begin to fade in a half hour or so. 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.
Given these results, FTS should be explored as an additional means of preventing opioid overdose used in tandem with other harm reduction measures, such as naloxone distribution and overdose education. In contrast, it has been hypothesized that in areas where fentanyl contamination is pervasive, PWUD who have taken drugs that contain fentanyl and have not experienced an overdose may become complacent in their use of overdose prevention strategies [34]. This could prove to be true in Rhode Island where participants noted that fentanyl contamination is likely. Ultimately, future research is needed to evaluate FTS interventions to understand how FTS may contribute to behavior change among young adults. Further studies should examine which fentanyl analogs are able to be detected in urine or drugs and to what degree of sensitivity.
Fentanyl test strips are essential tools used to detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs. With the increasing incidence of fentanyl-related overdoses, these strips have become vital for those who use drugs. Knowing where to buy fentanyl test strips can empower individuals to make safer choices.
Fentanyl, a deadly opioid, is being added to drugs like heroin, cocaine, and pills. Fentanyl test strips can tell you whether there is fentanyl in drugs. The Division of Substance Use Prevention and Harm Reduction (SUPHR) provides test strips and naloxone to both individuals and organizations. In addition to distributing these supplies at pop-ups and community events listed on our events page, there are a few ways you can get naloxone and test strips to prevent a fatal overdose in your community.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that can cause severe respiratory depression and death, even in small doses. Regular drug users may be unaware of the presence of fentanyl in their substances, which can lead to fatal overdoses. Here are a few reasons to consider using fentanyl test strips:
- Safety: They help identify dangerous substances in drugs.
- Awareness: Users can make informed decisions about their usage.
- Prevention: Reduces the risk of accidental overdose.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Test Strips
Finding reliable sources for fentanyl test strips is crucial for ensuring accessibility. Here are some options:
1. Online Retailers
Many online platforms offer fentanyl test strips for purchase:
- Amazon: Widely accessible and offers various brands.
- eBay: Additional market for various testing kits.
- Specialty Health Websites: Websites dedicated to harm reduction often carry these products.
2. Local Pharmacies
Some pharmacies may stock fentanyl test strips, especially those with a focus on public health:
- Chain Pharmacies: Larger pharmacy chains may have them available.
- Independent Pharmacies: Some independent pharmacists are aware of the importance of these tools.
3. Harm Reduction Organizations
Organizations focused on harm reduction often distribute these strips for free or at a low cost:
- Non-profits: Many local non-profits provide resources and supplies.
- Community Health Centers: Look for programs dedicated to opioid overdose prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are fentanyl test strips legal to buy?
A: Yes, they are legal in most states, although regulations may vary.
Q: How do I use fentanyl test strips?
A: Simply dissolve a small sample of the substance in water, dip the strip, and wait for the results according to the packaging instructions.
Q: Can I rely solely on fentanyl test strips to ensure safety?
A: While they are a valuable tool, they should be used alongside other harm reduction strategies.
Conclusion
Knowing where to buy fentanyl test strips can significantly impact the safety and well-being of those who use drugs. Whether through online retailers, local pharmacies, or community organizations, making these strips accessible is essential in combating the fentanyl crisis. Stay informed, prioritize safety, and consider incorporating fentanyl test strips into harm reduction practices.
