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Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
Fentanyl test strips are a crucial harm reduction tool designed to detect the presence of fentanyl in various substances. With the rising concerns regarding fentanyl overdoses, many individuals are seeking ways to ensure their safety.
To obtain Narcan or fentanyl test strips please check the locations below. All locations are confidential and no identifying information is collected, retained or shared with any other agency including Law Enforcement. These sites are not affiliated with any Law Enforcement Agency and no Law Enforcement Officers are present.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that can be 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. As the opioid crisis continues, these test strips offer a way for users to check their drugs and avoid the risks associated with fentanyl contamination. Here are some reasons to consider using them:
Additional Resources
Additionally, we placed a key on each of the FTS packages to assist with interpretation of the test results (Fig. 1. Fentanyl rapid test strip results label). 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. In this study, young adults using drugs in Rhode Island reported high uptake and acceptability of rapid fentanyl test strips, suggesting that rapid fentanyl test strips are a feasible and acceptable harm reduction tool to detect IMF presence in illicit drugs. We recruited a convenience sample of young adults who use drugs in Rhode Island from May to September 2017. Eligible participants (aged 18 to 35 with past 30-day drug use) completed an interviewer-administered survey.
- Fast and easy to use.
- Can help prevent overdoses.
- Accessible harm reduction strategy.
- Provides peace of mind before using substances.
The participant also suggested that he sought out dealers whose drugs were not contaminated with fentanyl. Interviews were transcribed by four members of the research team. The data analysis was performed by using a thematic analytic approach, an iterative process of repeatedly analyzing data in order to recognize categories that subsequently become the themes of a research study [47]. For this study, a deductive approach was utilized in order to develop an initial coding scheme, which was constructed from the interview template [48]. A code book was then developed and refined as new ideas and themes were discovered in the transcripts.
Participants completed a baseline quantitative survey, then completed a training to learn how to use the FTS. Participants then received ten FTS for personal use and were asked to return 2–4 weeks later to complete a brief quantitative and structured qualitative interview. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and double coded in NVivo (Version 11). The number of overdose deaths in the U.S. from synthetic opioids doubled from 2016 to 2017.
Most of the time, the person using the contaminated substance has no idea that it contains fentanyl. Substances laced with fentanyl can lead to accidental overdose, sometimes resulting in death. Based on previous legislation in some states, fentanyl test strips are classified as drug paraphernalia and are considered illegal. Under the supervision of a licensed medical professional, fentanyl has a legitimate medical use.
Where Can I Buy Fentanyl Test Strips?
- Third, we only assessed lifetime overdose history generally and did not ask participants about their experiences with opioid overdose specifically.
- The fact that naloxone programs have been so effective proves this.
- If you plan to use IV drugs, prepare the shot, set the needle aside, and add about one-fifth teaspoon of water to the spoon/cooker with the drug.
- Take home rapid tests that have the ability to detect the presence of fentanyl and other analogs may offer PWUD additional options for overdose prevention in the face of increasing contamination in the US drug supply.
- And yet those myths and stereotypes continue to drive our policies, our clinical models, the way the public thinks about drug use.
A new CDC report shows that meth caused more fatal overdoses in the United States west of the Mississippi River than fentanyl in 2017. If you or someone you know is looking to make the move to an inpatient facility, or if you’d like more information about Fentanyl treatment options, contact a treatment provider today to learn more. Get professional help from an online addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp. Join the thousands of people that have called a treatment provider for rehab information. Until now, Fentanyl test strips had previously been considered “drug paraphernalia” in Florida, meaning it was a crime to either possess or distribute them anywhere in the state. Fentanyl mixed (adulterated) with xylazine has been declared an emerging drug threat (link) by the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy.
Individuals looking to purchase fentanyl test strips have several options available to them. Here are some common sources:
1. Online Retailers
To learn more about your new benefits, your welcome packet, and what to do if you have an urgent health care issue please visit the New to Oregon Health Plan web page. Rescue breaths are critical for people who have used xylazine because it causes breathing to slow down. Harm reduction experts also recommend rolling the person who has overdosed onto their side with their top knee bent, in the recovery position. Xylaxine is a powerful non-opioid sedative used in veterinary medicine.
I have friends that would get the drug test kits from the stores and just test in private because like a lot of stigma attached to things. So when you go to a place where you have to do drug testing even the people there can kinda look at you kinda weird um no matter what their reason is (Respondent 2, multiracial female, age 29, urine testing group). They were not just close friends, but a couple of people I met at the clinic and stuff, and they actually were people who really want to know if the fentanyl is actually in the drugs they are using, and they actually use a little bit more than I do.
Many online platforms sell fentanyl test strips. These websites often offer discreet packaging and faster shipping options. Some popular online retailers include:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Harm reduction websites
2. Local Pharmacies
Some local pharmacies may carry fentanyl test strips. While they might not be as common, it’s worth checking:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Rite Aid
3. Community Organizations
Many harm reduction organizations distribute fentanyl test strips for free or at a low cost. Consider reaching out to:
- Local health departments
- Nonprofit organizations focused on substance use
- Drug user unions
4. Needle Exchange Programs
Some needle exchange programs also provide fentanyl test strips as part of their services. These programs aim to reduce harm associated with drug use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the limitations of fentanyl test strips?
While fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl, they may not indicate the dosage or the presence of other harmful substances.
How accurate are fentanyl test strips?
Generally, these test strips have a high rate of accuracy; however, factors such as user error or improper usage can affect results.
Do I need a prescription to buy fentanyl test strips?
No, you do not need a prescription. They are available for purchase over-the-counter at many locations, and free options are available through community organizations.
Conclusion
Getting your hands on fentanyl test strips is vital for anyone who is concerned about potential fentanyl contamination in their drugs. Whether purchasing from online retailers, local pharmacies, or community organizations, taking this step can significantly lower the risk of overdose and promote safer drug use practices.
