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Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is used medically for pain management, typically in cases of severe chronic pain or during surgical procedures. However, it has also gained notoriety as a dangerous and illicit street drug due to its high potency and potential for abuse. In many countries, including the United States, fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, making it illegal to possess or distribute without a valid prescription.
Understanding the Risks
The misuse of fentanyl can have serious consequences, including addiction, overdose, and death. It is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with this potent opioid. Purchasing fentanyl illegally not only puts your health at risk but also exposes you to legal consequences if caught.
The campaign targeted areas that had seen an increase in overdoses as well as areas where people use drugs recreationally. But even in the controlled conditions of a hospital, there is still a risk that using fentanyl can reduce breathing rates to dangerously low levels, the main cause of opioid overdose deaths. For those taking fentanyl in nonmedical settings, there is no medical team available to monitor someone’s breathing rate in real time to ensure their safety.
Why Is Fentanyl Dangerous?
Fentanyl is estimated to be up to 100 times more potent than morphine and significantly stronger than heroin. This high potency makes it particularly dangerous, as even small amounts can lead to overdose and death. Some key risks associated with fentanyl include:
- Overdose: Due to its potency, it is easy to accidentally consume a lethal dose of fentanyl.
- Unknown composition: Illicitly obtained fentanyl may be mixed with other hazardous substances, increasing the potential for harm.
- Addiction: Like other opioids, fentanyl has a high addiction potential, leading to dependence and a range of negative consequences.
- Legality: Buying or possessing fentanyl without a valid prescription is illegal in many countries, carrying severe legal penalties.
Experts say that could keep them alive until the time in which they are ready to start moving off drugs. A controversial tool has emerged in the fight against opioid overdose deaths. It’s a strip that allows people who use street drugs such as cocaine and heroin to test whether their drugs are laced with fentanyl.
This may rapidly become dependence, meaning that not taking opioids may cause severe pain and discomfort because opioids are no longer in the brain and body. This leads some people to use opioids more and more, a cycle that can lead to opioid use disorder. Opioid use disorder occurs when opioid use interferes with daily life.
Responding to an Opioid Overdose
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to buy fentanyl legally?
Support for Families
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. Illicitly manufactured powdered fentanyl looks just like many other drugs.
Yes, fentanyl can be legally obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. However, it is strictly regulated due to its potential for abuse and misuse.
Centre on Substance Abuse (BCCSU) has revealed that nearly all substances labeled as heroin sold in Vancouver contain the deadly synthetic opioid fentanyl. That being said, those fighting substance use disorders who are willing to take the potentially fatal risks that come with consuming illicit pills can reduce their chances of overdosing by using FTS. Fentanyl overdoses can be reversed using naloxone, including Narcan Nasal Spray. A person overdosing on opioids may need more than one dose of naloxone and more time for it to work (2-3 minutes). The SAMHSA site contains a variety of additional resources for recovery support services, including information about opioid addiction and fentanyl.
Where can I buy fentanyl illegally?
Organizations in Suburban Cook County that provide FTS
We strongly discourage purchasing fentanyl illegally. The illegal market for fentanyl poses significant risks to your health and legal well-being. Engaging in such activities not only endangers your life but also supports criminal operations.
What are the consequences of buying fentanyl illegally?
People struggling with substance use can contact the Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline to be connected to treatment options. You cannot smell or taste fentanyl, so consider carrying Fentanyl Test Strips to prevent ingestion. Call Click here to find the health department location closest to you. The biggest risk factor is that people are often exposed unintentionally and don’t know to take the proper precautions to use this drug safely. Partnership to End Addiction is here if you need help thinking this through.
The consequences of buying fentanyl illegally vary by jurisdiction but can include fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. Moreover, the dangers associated with consuming illicitly obtained fentanyl greatly outweigh any potential benefits.
How can I seek help for fentanyl addiction?
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is crucial to seek professional help. Contact your healthcare provider, a local addiction helpline, or a substance abuse treatment center to explore available resources and support options.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or legal expert regarding your specific circumstances.
