Person-centered Care & Harm Reduction
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Use
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically to treat severe pain, particularly after surgeries or in cancer patients. However, its potency can make it dangerous, especially when misused.
Opioid use disorder occurs when opioid use interferes with daily life. This may include challenges at home, at work, at school, or in relationships. Taking too many opioids at one time can cause a person to stop breathing and die. Individuals should call 911 immediately after administering naloxone. Be aware that it may take more than one dose of naloxone to reverse an opioid overdose. The program not only educates parents and students but also school officials including administrators and teachers.
Download fentanyl test result stickers that show the result of a fentanyl strip test. Learn how to use a fentanyl test strip with these shareable infographics, developed by PONI, available for download in English and in Español. Learn how to stay safe with fentanyl with these shareable infographics, available in English, Español, and Português. We are available by phone and are holding a mix of in person and virtual meetings throughout the week. Ashley Perry, Intervention Case Manager from Project Weber/RENEW, explains how to use a fentanyl test strip. China had promised to do that, but last month President Trump accused China of not following through.
The presence of non-pharmaceutical fentanyl in New York City has dramatically increased the number of overdose deaths, and fentanyl is now the most common drug involved in overdose deaths. In 2020, 1,580 New Yorkers died from a fentanyl-involved overdose. Illicit fentanyl related products are described including the different forms it can appear in.
New production techniques have spawned new distributions systems, which our law enforcement officials are working to confront. Fentanyl test strips aren’t legal everywhere because some states consider them to be drug paraphernalia (items you need to do drugs). But a growing number of health and public policy experts are supporting their use along with other harm-reduction strategies.
Ideal for first responders, police, security personnel and others who directly interact with the public. Proper fentanyl glove selection is imperative as the finely ground opioid powder can be absorbed transdermally via open cuts or wounds on hands and around fingernails. With the unique Eagle Standard ensuring consistent quality and performance, wearers can be confident of unbeatable protection. Eagle offers a range of fentanyl protective gloves, tested directly against a fentanyl solution, in differing thicknesses, colors and textures. Nitrile gloves must be tested to the chemotherapy drug threshold (ASTM D6978) to claim resistance. To ensure the highest levels of safety, we recommend confirming the nitrile glove was specifically tested against a fentanyl solution.
What to Know Before Considering Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl, equal to 10 to15 grains of table salt, is considered a lethal dose. “I have directed my office to treat addiction as a disease, not a crime, and we will not prosecute individuals for simply possessing fentanyl test strips, which are categorized by the state as drug paraphernalia. These test strips save lives and by distributing them, the city is giving those struggling with substance use disorder a tool to avoid overdosing. Fentanyl is a poison ravaging our neighborhoods and is largely responsible for the dramatic uptick in overdose deaths we have suffered over the past year,” said Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro.
“It’s scary to think that these products are available and so easily attainable to those not trained or educated in drug metabolism,” said Buck Martin of King’s Pharmacy and Compounding. “When you’re relying on somebody who has no medical background, no regulation at all, then you’re just playing with your life.” At a routine traffic stop, BCSO patrol discovered 118 grams of pure fentanyl. New Hanover County’s drug unit is also seeing more of the drug mixed into dope bags.
- “The best thing my husband ever did for me was ask for a divorce,” Greenwell said.
- Contact the syringe services program or Dept. of Health and Human Services in your state.
- Crush the substance that you wish to test finely on a clean surface.
- The precinct requires 17 officers on patrol to safely respond to 911 calls during the afternoon shift, the Police Bureau says.
Before exploring the topic of how to buy fentanyl, it’s crucial to understand the risks and legal implications associated with this substance. Here are some points to consider:
- Legality: In many places, fentanyl is a controlled substance, meaning it is illegal to buy or possess it without a prescription.
- Health Risks: Fentanyl can lead to severe health complications, including overdose and death.
- Alternatives: There may be safer alternatives available for pain management.
Legal and Safe Access to Fentanyl
If fentanyl is deemed appropriate for your condition, the safest route is through legal and medical channels. Here’s how to do it:
- Consult with a Medical Professional: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider who understands your medical history and needs.
- Receive a Prescription: If fentanyl is appropriate for your treatment, your doctor will provide a prescription.
- Purchase from a Licensed Pharmacy: Take the prescription to a licensed pharmacy where the medication can be dispensed safely.
FAQs About Fentanyl
Q: Is it safe to use fentanyl?
A: When used as prescribed by a healthcare provider, fentanyl can be safe. Misuse or illegal purchase greatly increases the risk of dangerous side effects.
Q: Can fentanyl be obtained without a prescription?
A: Obtaining fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and poses significant risks to health and wellbeing.
Q: What should I do if I’m prescribed fentanyl?
A: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Fentanyl can be an effective tool for managing severe pain, but it is vital to approach it with caution, understanding the potential for misuse and the legal ramifications of obtaining it improperly. The safest way to acquire fentanyl is through a healthcare provider who can ensure that it is appropriate for your condition.