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Understanding Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is often used medically to treat severe pain, especially after surgery or for patients with chronic pain. It is significantly stronger than morphine, which can lead to a high potential for addiction and overdose if misused.
Learn more about law enforcement and overdose response here. If you already have an ordering account, you may proceed to NarcanDirect to request larger quantities of naloxone nasal spray.
Illegally manufactured fentanyl is fueling the increase in drug overdoses in the U.S. It is often contained in illicit drugs without the user’s knowledge. It may be laced into other illegal street drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, fake opioid pills, or methamphetamine (“meth”). It is relatively cheap to make and allows an illicit drug manufacturer to stretch their product, make it more powerful and addictive, and gain more money for themselves. Although studies have not examined the effect of training on pharmacy FTS sales, parallels may be drawn with pharmacy-based naloxone distribution.
Other drug checking tools like reagent kits can be used, but they can be expensive and legality varies by state (updated as of 2019). In some states like Missouri, they are still considered paraphernalia. Fentanyl has been found in not just heroin, but cocaine, methamphetamine, counterfeit pills, and other street drugs.
Naloxone, sold under the name Narcan, is a prescription medication used to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. When used immediately after an overdose, naloxone can block the effects of the opioids and help prevent death. Naloxone’s effects are temporary, so it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately after it is administered.
Stop Opioid Overdose
The city’s health department has actively worked to get naloxone, the opioid-overdose reversal medication, into the hands of people who can use it to save lives, and to expand access to addiction treatment. Working with the nonprofit Code in the Schools, the city in 2017 launched a “bad batch” text alert system, to warn people who use drugs when there is a spike in overdose deaths in a certain area. 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.
These wounds have been reported from injecting, smoking, and snorting xylazine, and they can develop quickly. Xylazine wounds can take a long time to heal and require prolonged medical care. Counterfeit pills are extremely dangerous because people purchasing them may think they are purchasing legitimate prescription medications. However, these fake pills may contain lethal amounts of fentanyl.
Anyone who uses drugs that may contain fentanyl, even occasionally, may be at risk of overdose. You can’t see, smell or taste fentanyl when it’s mixed with other drugs. If you use heroin, cocaine or crack—even rarely—you’re at risk of a fentanyl-involved overdose. Last year, the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office recorded more than 350 overdose deaths involving opioids, nearly triple the number only three years earlier, an increase driven by fentanyl.
- Like most in Akron, Ohio, he’d never heard of fentanyl until the police told him his son was dead.
- The kits also included a NEXT Distro card, which is a mail-based program where people can receive free Narcan and fentanyl test strips.
- People using xylazine can develop a dependence and may be at risk of withdrawal.
- Chest rigidity has been seen in some fentanyl-related overdoses and this causes the individual to stop breathing immediately.
Risks Associated with Fentanyl
Before exploring the topic of how can I buy fentanyl, it’s essential to understand the risks:
- High Risk of Overdose: Even a tiny amount can lead to life-threatening consequences.
- Addiction: Fentanyl has a high potential for addiction and dependence.
- Legal Issues: Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal in most countries.
Legal Ways to Obtain Fentanyl
If you are prescribed fentanyl due to a medical condition, here are the legal steps to follow:
- Consult a Doctor: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your pain management needs.
- Get a Prescription: If appropriate, your doctor may prescribe fentanyl in a safe and controlled manner.
- Visit a Pharmacy: Fill your prescription at a licensed pharmacy that dispenses controlled substances.
Fentanyl in the Illegal Market
While illegal, some individuals may search for ways to buy fentanyl outside of legal channels:
- Online Marketplaces: Some might attempt to purchase fentanyl through the dark web, but this is extremely risky and illegal.
- Street Dealers: Purchasing from street dealers poses significant risks, including potential for receiving counterfeit or harmful substances.
Consequences of Illegal Purchase
Engaging in illegal activities to obtain fentanyl can lead to serious repercussions:
- Legal Actions: Arrest and prosecution for possession or distribution of illegal substances.
- Health Risks: The quality and dosage are uncertain, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Dependence and Addiction: Risk of developing a substance use disorder.
FAQs About Fentanyl
What is fentanyl used for?
Fentanyl is primarily used to treat severe pain, especially in post-operative situations or among patients suffering from chronic, severe pain.
Is it safe to buy fentanyl online?
No, purchasing fentanyl online without a prescription is illegal and poses serious health and legal risks.
What should I do if I or someone I know is struggling with fentanyl addiction?
Seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist who can provide resources and treatment options.
How can I prevent fentanyl overdose?
Preventing overdose involves:
- Using medications only as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Avoiding mixing fentanyl with other substances, particularly other opioids and alcohol.
- Staying informed about the signs of an overdose and having Naloxone available for emergencies.
In conclusion, while the topic of how can I buy fentanyl may arise, the focus should be on understanding the importance of legal and safe access to the drug through medical channels. Engaging in illegal activities not only poses risks to personal health but can also result in severe legal consequences.
