Fentanyl Myths: Set The Record Straight
These tests have the ability to detect the presence of fentanyl and some analogs in urine or in drug samples dissolved in water that are believed to be contaminated [24, 25]. Drug checking has become a staple harm reduction intervention in parts of Europe and Canada, through the establishment of drug testing programs and supervised injection facilities (SIFs) [24, 26,27,28]. Therefore, the use of FTS may be an important harm reduction practice to inform and increase engagement in overdose prevention behaviors, employed before an overdose occurs.
And you know, it was like I said, it’s kind of sad to say but we were almost expecting an overdose or such. And so, if that did happen, you know like at least somebody could be like, oh and jump on it and act fast (Respondent 22, white male, age 22 , urine testing group). I feel like going to a local health organization it would just be, I hate to say this, an opportunity for the cops to try to stop you as you’re walking in to have it tested.
Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
Further, all participants were given a handout that was written in plain language and discussed how to test urine or powdered drugs and pills with the FTS. Additionally, we placed a key on each of the FTS packages to assist with interpretation of the test results (Fig. 1. Fentanyl rapid test strip results label). Health departments and community-based organizations across the country have been stepping up to respond to the opioid crisis. 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. In this study, young adults using drugs in Rhode Island reported high uptake and acceptability of rapid fentanyl test strips, suggesting that rapid fentanyl test strips are a feasible and acceptable harm reduction tool to detect IMF presence in illicit drugs.
- If someone is unconscious or has any of these signs, administer naloxone and call 911 immediately.
- It is the primary driver of overdose mortality in Massachusetts and across the nation.
- City to study use of fentanyl-detecting test strips by distributing them in exchange vans.
Fentanyl test strips are essential tools for individuals who may be at risk of fentanyl exposure, particularly in the context of drugs that may be mixed with fentanyl. These strips allow users to test substances for the presence of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid that can be life-threatening even in tiny amounts.
During times of individual and collective stress, there is a potential for increased opioid use as a way to self-medicate. Opioids, used in tandem with alcohol or other “downers” (such as Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and sleep medications) are particularly dangerous, and Narcan can save lives while help is on the way. If given in time, Narcan® (also known as Naloxone) can save the life of someone who is overdosing from opioids.
Where Can I Buy Fentanyl Test Strips?
Fentanyl is to blame for 146 deaths in Vermont since 2016, when it overtook heroin and prescription painkillers as the most deadly opioid in the state. The potent synthetic has already killed 30 people in Vermont in 2018, more than heroin and prescription opioids combined, according to state data. Fentanyl is ending up in many different drugs, but many people aren’t aware, so they’re taking substances they’ve taken for years and unexpectedly overdosing. Kids, for example, might get a pill at a party, and it may look legitimate, but it’s not. Anyone can buy a press to make pills that look just like prescription drugs these days.
Finally, participants were asked a number of questions at follow-up to ascertain the feasibility, acceptability, and willingness to continue to use the strip tests. These questions included “I feel confident in my ability to read the results of the fentanyl testing strips”, “It would be easy to continue to use the fentanyl rapid tests”, and “I would like to use fentanyl rapid tests in the future”. Response options were offered on a four-point Likert scale but were recoded as “agree” or “disagree/neutral”. 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.
Provides self-empowering recovery tools using a non 12-step approach. Get the facts on fentanyl and overdose to protect your loved ones. Opioids have played a role in the crisis, but the problem runs much deeper than the drugs themselves. Overdose Lifeline is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities affected by the disease of substance use disorder. For many people, the best solution for opioid use disorder is medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).
Individuals who are looking to acquire fentanyl test strips often ask, where can I buy fentanyl test strips? There are several avenues available for purchasing these test strips:
- Online Retailers: Various online platforms sell fentanyl test strips. Websites like Amazon or specialized drug-testing sites offer convenient options.
- Local Pharmacies: Some pharmacies carry fentanyl test strips, especially those that cater to harm reduction programs. It’s advisable to call ahead and confirm availability.
- Health Departments: Many local health departments provide fentanyl test strips free of charge or at a low cost as part of public health initiatives.
- Community Organizations: Non-profit organizations focused on substance use and harm reduction frequently distribute fentanyl test strips. These groups may also offer educational resources.
- Harm Reduction Programs: Programs that focus on harm reduction often have fentanyl test strips available for free, aiming to reduce the risks associated with drug use.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
The importance of using fentanyl test strips cannot be overstated. Here are some reasons why they are vital:
- Risk Mitigation: Fentanyl is much more potent than other opioids; testing can help prevent accidental overdoses.
- Informed Choices: Users can make better decisions about drug use when they know if their substances are contaminated with fentanyl.
- Harm Reduction: These strips contribute to public health efforts aimed at decreasing overdose deaths.
How to Use Fentanyl Test Strips
Using fentanyl test strips is relatively simple, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully:
- Prepare the Sample: Dissolve a small amount of the substance to be tested in a specified amount of water, typically 1-2 ml.
- Test the Sample: Dip the strip into the solution and hold it there for the duration described in the instructions (usually around 15 seconds).
- Read the Results: After waiting the appropriate time, results can generally be read after 5 minutes. A positive result will show a specific line on the strip.
FAQs About Fentanyl Test Strips
1. Are fentanyl test strips legal?
Yes, fentanyl test strips are legal in most areas, but laws can vary by location. It’s best to check local regulations.
2. How reliable are fentanyl test strips?
While they can be a valuable tool, no test is 100% accurate. Strips may not detect all forms of fentanyl or its analogs.
3. Can I test all drugs with fentanyl test strips?
Fentanyl test strips are primarily used for opioid substances. Testing may not be effective on all types of drugs.
4. Do fentanyl test strips show the amount of fentanyl present?
No, these strips can only indicate the presence or absence of fentanyl, not the quantity.
In conclusion, knowing where can I buy fentanyl test strips is crucial for harm reduction in the face of the opioid crisis. Utilizing these strips can help save lives by enabling users to make informed choices regarding substance use.
