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Take Action: Test For Fentanyl
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Regulation
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically to treat severe pain, often associated with conditions like cancer or after surgery. However, due to its potency and the risks of addiction and overdose, fentanyl is strictly regulated in many countries.
In Wisconsin, no one is alone in their journey to overcome opioid use disorder. Schools and programs serving youth can increase awareness and create safe environments for children. They can educate youth and their community on the dangers of fentanyl and how to help prevent opioid misuse and addiction. Many fake pills are made to look just like prescription Xanax (bars), Percocet (perk), opioids (painkillers) like Vicodin and Oxycodone (oxy), and stimulants like Adderall (addy). Fentanyl overdose often comes on much faster and stronger than a typical opioid overdose.
Customs by shipping it to a co-conspirator in the United States posing as a legitimate chemical company. Shipments between chemical companies weren’t considered suspicious. But inside, there would be as many as 50 individual drug packages each addressed to the person who’d ordered them. Cronin’s investigators went online and discovered overseas labs offering most any illegal drug. Opioids are natural drugs derived from the opium poppy or synthetic drugs, and have a depressant or sedating effect, causing the brain and central nervous system to slow down. Details about the fentanyl crisis in Canada were shared with the ADF in a recent tour here by Canadian drug policy reform advocate Senator Larry Campbell.
Medical Use of Fentanyl
Crime lab cases are the results of the Washington State Patrol’s Forensic Laboratory Services Bureau chemistry testing of samples submitted by law enforcement. As with toxicology testing in deaths, identification of novel synthetic opioids may have lagged behind availability of such substances. See our new and emerging drugs in crime lab evidence page for an explanation of why crime lab cases dropped in 2021.
While using fentanyl, you should talk to your doctor about having a rescue medication called naloxone readily available (e.g., home, office). Naloxone is used to reverse the life-threatening effects of an overdose. It works by blocking the effects of opiates to relieve dangerous symptoms caused by high levels of opiates in the blood. Your doctor may also prescribe you naloxone if you are living in a household where there are small children or someone who has abused street or prescription drugs. You should make sure that you and your family members, caregivers, or the people who spend time with you know how to tell recognize an overdose, how to use naloxone, and what to do until emergency medical help arrives. Your doctor or pharmacist will show you and your family members how to use the medication.
Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you’re on an official state website. Asking about your treatment or medicine is important to help you understand your options. Do not adjust your fentanyl dosage without talking to your doctor first. If a person is not breathing, or if they are unresponsive, seek help straight away. “It’s stronger than your willpower,” he said of the drug’s pull. The subcommittee identified more than 500 sales, totaling $230,000, that involved the six online sellers.
The drug is available in several forms, including:
New production techniques have spawned new distributions systems, which our law enforcement officials are working to confront. § It can be administered via a nasal spray or intramuscular injections that will restore normal breathing in someone who has overdosed on an opioid and stopped breathing. O Fentanyl test strips identify drugs contaminated with fentanyl and can help individuals make informed decisions about the drugs they use. Fentanyl test strips require dissolving a small amount of the drug supply in water, dipping the test strip into the liquid, and waiting 15 seconds for a result. According to the Los Angeles Times, the pharmacy locations included Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Tulum, Tijuana, Nuevo Progreso, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.
- Transdermal patches
- Lozenges
- Injections
- Fentanyl tablets are placed above a rear molar tooth, between your cheek and gum (buccal).
- While regular opioid users are at highest risk for overdose, consuming any form of fentanyl poses a significant risk for overdose.
- They are also provided an antidote prescription to counter the effects of an opioid overdose if needed.
- § This information sheet contains frequently asked questions, describes harm reduction steps to reduce the risk of fentanyl overdose and includes information about how LA County residents can obtain naloxone.
- Because the cheapest thing for suppliers to buy is the fentanyl precursor and then press it into anything, they call it whatever the buyer says they want.
These forms are typically prescribed for patients who have developed a tolerance to other opioids or those with chronic, severe pain.
Prescription Requirements
Due to the high risk of addiction and potential for overdose, the question arises: can I buy fentanyl without a prescription? The straightforward answer is no. In most jurisdictions, fentanyl is classified as a controlled substance, meaning it cannot be legally obtained without a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Attempting to acquire fentanyl without a valid prescription is illegal and poses significant health risks. Buying fentanyl from unregulated sources, such as online black markets or street dealers, not only exposes individuals to dangerously potent or adulterated substances but also increases the risk of legal consequences.
Consequences of Purchasing Fentanyl Illegally
Acquiring fentanyl without a prescription can lead to several serious repercussions:
- Legal Issues: Buying or possessing fentanyl without a prescription can result in criminal charges, fines, or imprisonment.
- Health Risks: Fentanyl has a high potential for overdose, especially if purchased from unreliable sources.
- Addiction: Misuse of fentanyl can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms, complicating recovery.
Alternatives and Solutions
If you or someone you know is facing severe pain and is considering fentanyl, it is crucial to consult a medical professional. Alternatives may include:
- Non-opioid pain relievers
- Physical therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Using a comprehensive approach to pain management can often reduce the need for potent opioids.
FAQs
1. What should I do if I am in severe pain?
Consult a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and explore safe treatment options.
2. Are there any safe ways to obtain fentanyl?
Fentanyl can only be obtained legally through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
3. What are the risks of fentanyl abuse?
Abusing fentanyl can lead to serious health risks, including overdose, addiction, and death.
4. How can I help someone who is struggling with opioid addiction?
Encouraging them to seek professional help, providing emotional support, and exploring treatment options can make a difference.
The question can I buy fentanyl without a prescription highlights the importance of understanding the legal and medical implications of this powerful substance. It is crucial to approach opioid pain management responsibly and under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals.
