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Fentanyl Facts
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Risks
A rapid ethnographic assessment was undertaken to understand the perceptions and experiences of people who inject drugs sold as ‘heroin’ and to observe the drugs and their use. Rates of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids other than methadone, which includes fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, increased over 22% from 2020 to 2021. The rate of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids in 2021 was nearly 22 times the rate in 2013. Nearly 71,000 drug overdose deaths involved synthetic opioids other than methadone in 2021. The latest provisional drug overdose death counts suggest overdose deaths accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that has gained notoriety due to its association with overdose deaths and the opioid crisis. Unlike many prescription medications, where to buy fentanyl online is often sought out illicitly, posing significant health risks.
The fact that we continue to provide free harbor for illicit money increases the profit margins. With no record of who owns them, anonymous companies are an ideal vehicle for hiding drug proceeds. A string of shell companies can launder the money back into a usable form, which is often difficult or impossible for law enforcement to trace.
Why People Seek Fentanyl
There are various reasons individuals may search for where to buy fentanyl online, including:
- Treatment of severe pain, often in cases of cancer or chronic conditions.
- Recreational use due to its intense euphoric effects.
- Dependency issues related to other opioids.
More than 70,000 people died of drug overdoses last year—the equivalent of about three 747 plane crashes each week. DreamMarket advertised a large amount and variety of opioids with more than 4,000 opioid-related posts advertising 71 different types of opioid products on a regular basis. However, novel synthetic opioid AP-237 was first detected by the eDarkTrends NER in January 2019. It was subsequently identified by NMS labs, but nearly nine month later, in September 2019 (NMS Labs, 2019b). This example highlights the utility of the eDarkTrends platform and cryptomarket data in general for timely identification and effective surveillance of emerging substance use trends.
Given the heightened awareness of fentanyl and the possibility of transdermal or respiratory exposure, many agencies are looking at how to protect their officers and K9s. Agencies need to know basic information about fentanyl, PPE and decontamination processes so they can prepare their officers and keep them safe. Learn how to use a fentanyl test strip with these shareable infographics, developed by PONI, available for download in English and in Español. We are available by phone and are holding a mix of in person and virtual meetings throughout the week.
As fentanyl seizures continue to hit historical levels, we anticipate that more lawmakers at the state and federal levels will develop legislation to combat the fentanyl problem. For example, Colorado’s new fentanyl law will allow police to charge anyone with more than a gram of fentanyl in their possession. While some people may view this law as extreme, Colorado sees it as a way to keep the drug off the streets.
Nationwide, fentanyl is involved in more deaths of Americans under 50 than any cause of death, including heart disease, cancer, homicide, suicide and other accidents. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Legal and Health Implications
- Fentanyl in powder form or other non-pharmaceutical forms was classified as non-pharmaceutical fentanyl (e.g., “Fentanyl HCl crystalls pure 98% 1gr”).
- Drugs mixed with fentanyl are extremely dangerous, and many people may be unaware that their drugs contain fentanyl.
- “We know it’s happening. We still cannot get cooperation from major Internet companies, service providers, to be able to get into those devices that we know [drug cartels] are utilizing,” the DEA’s Donahue said.
- Since 2019, 134,280 doses of NARCAN® have been distributed at no cost through community agencies to people who use opioids or drugs that could be mixed with opioids, and their families and friends.
- It is relatively easy to produce and is much more potent than heroin.
Acquiring fentanyl through unauthorized online sources is illegal and highly dangerous. Here are some considerations:
- Legal Risks: Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is against the law in many jurisdictions.
- Health Risks: The quality and dosage of fentanyl obtained online cannot be guaranteed, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Potential for Addiction: Fentanyl is highly addictive, and misuse can lead to dependency and severe health consequences.
Finding Reputable Sources
If you are looking for ways to manage pain safely, here are some legitimate avenues to explore instead of searching for where to buy fentanyl online:
Consult a Healthcare Provider
Your first step should always be to consult with a qualified healthcare provider. They can:
- Assess your condition and the necessity of opioid treatment.
- Prescribe appropriate medication if necessary, ensuring it is safe for you.
- Provide resources for pain management that do not involve opioids.
Explore Alternatives
Many alternatives to fentanyl exist, such as:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises.
- Non-opioid pain relief medications (e.g., acetaminophen and NSAIDs).
- Alternative therapies, including acupuncture or mindfulness practices.
FAQs About Fentanyl
What are the signs of fentanyl overdose?
Signs include difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, pinpoint pupils, and extreme drowsiness.
How does fentanyl compare to other opioids?
Fentanyl is significantly more potent than morphine and other opioids, making it more effective for severe pain but also more dangerous.
What should I do if I suspect someone has overdosed on fentanyl?
Call emergency services immediately. Administer naloxone if available while waiting for help.
Final Thoughts
While the search for where to buy fentanyl online may stem from a need for pain relief or other motivations, it is essential to prioritize safety. Always seek professional medical advice and utilize legitimate resources for managing pain and health concerns.
