Risks Of Purchasing Fentanyl Sold On The Street
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. We’ve seen that with naloxone [used to treat overdose] and naloxone distribution. Counties that have greater access to naloxone have lower rates of overdose death, and that’s been shown here in Massachusetts. Other research from Brown University showed that half of test strip users found fentanyl in their drug supply. Of those who detected fentanyl, more than 40% decided to use a smaller amount of the drugs or to go more slowly to reduce their risk of overdosing.
Understanding Fentanyl Pills
Fentanyl pills are synthetic opioids that are medically prescribed for severe pain management. However, the illicit use of fentanyl pills has become a significant concern due to their potency and risks of overdose.
In May 2022, three students at the Ohio State University were rushed to an area hospital due to fentanyl overdose. The same week of the reported overdose, Columbus Public Health and campus safety officials issued warnings of possible Adderall pills laced with fentanyl on campus. However, new concerns have come up regarding social media also becoming a way to sell and purchase drugs. And the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is advising parents about an alarming trend of colorful fentanyl pills being available for purchase online and in person.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Pills
USC students can obtain no-cost kits containing both naloxone and testing strips through the Naloxone SC program run by graduate students in the USC School of Pharmacy. Similar to other illicit substances that serve medical purposes when used properly, fentanyl is available in a multitude of applications (3). Though they are intended for medical purposes, these products are made available for illicit purposes as well.
When seeking to know where to buy fentanyl pills, it is essential first to understand the legal and health implications.
In Georgia, from 2019 to 2021, drug overdose deaths increased by 61%, and fentanyl-involved overdose deaths increased by 230%. 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.
As the sun goes down that night, first responders rush from overdose to overdose. Tonight, he’s back at the corner looking for drugs, or at least a buddy who can hook him up. He’d go to a shelter, but he knows there’s a warrant out for his arrest and he’s afraid the staff will tip off the cops. Tomorrow he’ll scrounge up some cans and redeem them for cash.
- Pharmacies: The only safe and legitimate place to obtain fentanyl pills is through a licensed pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription.
- Online Pharmacies: Some online pharmacies claim to sell fentanyl pills, but many operate illegally. Always verify their licensing and reputation before making a purchase.
- Street Sources: Purchasing fentanyl pills off the street is illegal and highly dangerous. These products might not be what they claim, leading to severe health risks.
Xylazine is being incorporated into the illicit drug supply and is now geographically spread throughout the United States. Xylazine has frequently been found mixed with opioids (including fentanyl) and stimulants (including methamphetamine and cocaine). Gianatiempo, Madeline Hilliard and three other students wanted to do something about it, and they believed the root of the issue was a lack of education about drugs. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid and prescription medication renowned for its potency, is employed in medical settings to manage severe pain. It may appear as a powder similar in appearance to other drugs, such as cocaine. For Robert, who’s motivated to get clean and get off the street, the process has been frustratingly slow.
Risks Associated with Buying Fentanyl Pills
Purchasing fentanyl pills, especially from unofficial sources, carries several risks:
- Overdose: Due to its high potency, even a small miscalculation in dosage can lead to fatal consequences.
- Contamination: Illicitly obtained pills may contain harmful substances or not be genuine fentanyl pills.
- Legal Issues: Buying fentanyl pills without a prescription or from illegal sources can result in criminal charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all fentanyl pills illegal?
No, fentanyl pills prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider are legal. However, obtaining them without a prescription is illegal.
2. What should I do if I suspect someone is abusing fentanyl?
If you believe someone is misusing or abusing fentanyl pills, it’s important to encourage them to seek professional help and contact healthcare providers.
3. What are the symptoms of fentanyl overdose?
- Routine testing for xylazine by the Oregon State Medical Examiner began in 2020.
- Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used for treating severe pain and is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.
- CSU’s inclusive community designed to provide support for students on all paths and in all phases of recovery including substance use disorders, eating disorders, as well as process and other mental health disorders.
- As a result of this grant, many local health departments and harm reduction centers now provide fentanyl test strips.
Symptoms of an overdose may include:
- Confusion
- Extreme drowsiness
- Slow or difficult breathing
- Loss of consciousness
Conclusion
Understanding where to buy fentanyl pills requires a focus on safety and legality. The safest and most responsible approach is to consult with a healthcare provider for legitimate prescriptions. Any attempt to acquire fentanyl pills through illegal means poses significant health risks and legal consequences.
