How To Test For Fentanyl And Prevent An Overdose
Understanding Fentanyl
Students can receive a life-saving opioid reversal kit containing a Narcan twinpack and drug-testing strips. Simply log in and review the educational video and take a brief quiz. CPNP members are also available to provide workshops and Q and A sessions via Zoom, and when Covid safety conditions permit, in-person at both HSC and UPC campuses. Access to test strips allows people to safely check any drugs or pills they may have, including prescription drugs acquired illegally such as Adderall and Xanax, to ensure they do not contain fentanyl. Overdose deaths from synthetic opioids, of which fentanyl is the most deadly, have risen dramatically in recent years.
You should also call 911, just like for any medical emergency, so extra help is on the way. If you have no insurance or are underinsured, we will refer you to your state office, which is responsible for state-funded treatment programs. In addition, we can often refer you to facilities that charge on a sliding fee scale or accept Medicare or Medicaid. If you have health insurance, you are encouraged to contact your insurer for a list of participating health care providers and facilities.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, often used medically for pain management, particularly in severe conditions. It is significantly stronger than morphine and is associated with high risks of overdose and addiction.
These effects usually go away after a few days of treatment, when your body gets used to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if drowsiness that is severe enough to interfere with your activities continues for more than a few days. This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants.
Learn the signs of a fentanyl poisoning and speak with your doctor or pharmacist about obtaining naloxone to carry and keep at home. These fake pills are increasingly common, and fentanyl may be mixed into them. Learn about prevention, harm reduction and substance use at CU Boulder. But it remains to be seen how many stores will carry it and what the prices will be. The U.S. Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, which now cover prescription naloxone for people on the government insurance programs, says that coverage of over-the-counter naloxone would depend on the insurance program.
Can You Buy Fentanyl Over the Counter?
The question often arises, can you buy fentanyl over the counter? The answer is no. Fentanyl is classified as a controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and addiction.
Here are some key points regarding the accessibility of fentanyl:
- Prescription Requirement: To obtain fentanyl legally, a prescription from a licensed medical professional is required.
- Forms of Fentanyl: Fentanyl is available in various forms including patches, lozenges, and injectable solutions.
- Illicit Production: Some individuals may seek fentanyl illegally, which poses significant health risks due to the unknown purity and dosage.
Each bag can deactivate and destroy up to 45 pills, 6 ounces of liquid, or 6 patches. To use, place unused medication in bag and fill halfway with warm tap water; wait 30 seconds, seal tightly, gently shake bag, and dispose in normal trash can. Fentanyl Test Strips are for anyone who is using unregulated drugs and need to determine if fentanyl is present. The test strips can also be obtained by anyone who is using drugs, family members, or friends.
The Risks of Buying Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin or morphine. Fentanyl use can increase your risk of overdose, especially if you do not regularly use opioids. Anyone who uses drugs that may contain fentanyl, even occasionally, may be at risk of overdose.
If you use drugs, you may be at risk for taking fentanyl without even knowing it. But highly potent opioids like fentanyl, which is rampant throughout the illicit drug market, are now the leading cause of overdose deaths across all ages. Black-market drug suppliers increasingly mix illicit drugs, including counterfeit prescription opioids, with the synthetic opioid fentanyl.
Attempting to acquire fentanyl outside of a licensed pharmacy can lead to serious consequences:
- Legal Issues: Buying fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and can result in criminal charges.
- Health Risks: Illicit fentanyl may be mixed with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Dependence: The potential for developing a dependence or addiction is high with improper use.
FAQs about Fentanyl
Q: What should I do if I need pain relief?
- Even people who don’t use drugs or opioids should have naloxone on hand.
- They even distributed them to businesses, such as barbershops, smoke shops, and individuals in cars took fentanyl test strips.
- Finally, authorities shut down 31 pharmacies and seized more than 4,681 boxes of medication during recent raids in Ensenada, where officials said some of the pills probably contained fentanyl.
- Data sources include Micromedex (updated 4 Feb 2024), Cerner Multum™ (updated 4 Feb 2024), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2024) and others.
- Health care professionals are hoping to de-stigmatize the conversation around naloxone.
A: Consult a healthcare professional to discuss appropriate pain management options. They may prescribe medications that are safer and more suitable for your condition.
Q: Is there a safe alternative to fentanyl?
A: Yes, there are various medications and therapies available for pain management. It’s crucial to follow medical advice.
Q: How can I recognize fentanyl abuse?
A: Look for signs such as drastic changes in behavior, neglecting responsibilities, or physical symptoms like drowsiness and confusion.
Conclusion
In summary, fentanyl is not available for over-the-counter purchase due to its high potential for abuse and serious health risks. Always consult a healthcare provider for safe and legal pain management solutions.
