Mayor Signs Executive Order To Decriminalize Fentanyl Test Strips
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Risks
It is important for FTS training to address stigmatizing attitudes and emphasize the benefits of FTS. Access to FTS could be greatly increased in many communities through pharmacy sales. North Carolina community pharmacists are willing to engage in various behaviors related to FTS sales and distribution. Most pharmacists were interested in receiving FTS training, which should be created to address pharmacist-reported barriers to FTS sales. Pharmacist distribution of FTS could increase access to FTS at the community level and has the potential to change drug use behavior and reduce overdose deaths.
PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Jim Kenney today signed Executive Order 4-21 making it the City’s policy not to arrest individuals for possessing or distributing fentanyl test trips. This Executive Order reinforces the City’s commitment to saving lives through harm reduction amid the ongoing opioid epidemic. In some cases, using meth or coke, especially at higher doses, can lead to another type of overdose called Overamping. Fentanyl burns and becomes inactive at high temperatures when in sustained direct contact with flame. While it is possible for weed to be laced with opioids, it would be an inefficient delivery system for the drug despite this persistent myth. Fentanyl contamination primarily occurs in powders and pressed pills.
It’s also often made as a white powder, which can easily be mixed or “cut” with other drugs like heroin to make them stronger, allowing people who sell drugs to make more profit. That’s according to police and local advocates working with people who use drugs. They say fentanyl is selling for anywhere from 50 cents to $5 a pill, depending on location and dealer-user relationships. The mortality rates from fentanyl consumption and increasing enforcement actions against dealers have even spooked many cybercriminals into steering clear from facilitating its trade. Dark web drugs market operators and vendors are aware of the increased law enforcement scrutiny and seizure efforts that arise from stocking fentanyl – resulting in many banning them outright. The Senate subcommittee did not look closely at darknet sites, the investigator told me, because they found so much on the open web.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than morphine. Originally developed for pain management, it is often associated with high risks of addiction and overdose. As the opioid crisis continues to affect many communities, understanding where to buy fentanyl and the implications of its use is crucial.
Legal Context of Fentanyl
Counties that have greater access to naloxone have lower rates of overdose death, and that’s been shown here in Massachusetts. Illicitly manufactured powdered fentanyl looks just like many other drugs. It is commonly mixed with drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, or made into pills that resemble other prescription opioids. In its liquid form, illicitly manufactured fentanyl can be found in nasal sprays and eye drops, and it can be dropped onto paper or small candies. Illegally manufactured fentanyl is fueling the increase in drug overdoses in the U.S. It is often contained in illicit drugs without the user’s knowledge.
Before discussing where to buy fentanyl, it is important to understand the legal landscape:
They arrived downtown over the winter, on standup scooters wearing matching backpacks. The sale and use of opioids in downtown Portland is a perennial story, featured on the cover of WW since the 1970s, when the Rose City became a heroin hot spot. What’s different about the fentanyl market is the potency of its product. You have the facts and are ready to start having real talks with the people in your life about opioids.
Fentanyl testing strips area life-saving overdose prevention tool, empowering individuals who use drugs toknow if a substance has been contaminated with fentanyl and to take action toreduce the risk of overdose. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine. 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. Overdose deaths involving fentanyl have quadrupled in recent years.
Overdoses from fentanyl have had a devastating impact on San Francisco, and our nightlife and entertainment community has been hit particularly hard. Narcan is distributed at special events held throughout the state. On-the-spot Narcan training, overdose rescue information, and other resources are also available.
- Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in many countries.
- In most regions, it is available legally only by prescription.
- Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and can result in severe penalties.
Legitimate Sources for Fentanyl
For those who have a legitimate need for fentanyl, it is essential to obtain it through proper channels:
- Prescription from a licensed physician: Always consult a healthcare provider for pain management needs.
- Pharmacies: Fentanyl can be purchased at licensed pharmacies with a valid prescription.
- Hospitals: Undergoing surgery or treatment may warrant inpatient access to fentanyl.
Risks of Purchasing Fentanyl Illegally
While some individuals may search for where to buy fentanyl outside of legal channels, there are considerable risks involved:
- Fentanyl Test Strips are for anyone who is using unregulated drugs and need to determine if fentanyl is present.
- Additional drug-specific educational cards that advise testing drugs for fentanyl and carrying naloxone can be found here.
- Fentanyl test strips aren’t legal everywhere because some states consider them to be drug paraphernalia (items you need to do drugs).
- In 2018, 744 people from Washington died from an opioid related overdose and 198 of these deaths included fentanyl.
- If you inject drugs, you should try to test every time you inject.
- Rescue breaths are one of the most important steps you can take while waiting for the person to breath on their own.
- Legal consequences: Buying or possessing fentanyl illegally can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
- Health risks: Illegally obtained fentanyl may be mixed with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Scams and dangerous situations: Purchasing from unverified sources can lead to financial loss and personal harm.
FAQs About Fentanyl
1. Is it safe to use fentanyl for pain management?
When prescribed by a healthcare provider, fentanyl can be safe and effective for managing severe pain, especially after surgery or for cancer patients.
2. What should I do if I think I need fentanyl?
Consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess your condition and determine the best course of action.
3. How can I recognize a fentanyl overdose?
Signs of an overdose include difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, inability to speak, and loss of consciousness. Seek emergency medical help immediately.
4. Are there alternatives to fentanyl?
Yes, there are various pain management options available, including other pain relievers, physical therapy, and holistic approaches. Discuss these with your healthcare provider.
Understanding where to buy fentanyl involves recognizing the importance of legality and safety. Always prioritize health and legality over quick solutions.
