Overdose Prevention – Support For Families
Understanding Fentanyl and Its Legal Status
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is primarily used in medical settings for pain management. It is significantly stronger than morphine and is often prescribed for patients experiencing severe pain, particularly in post-operative situations or those suffering from cancer.
The U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee estimates that in 2020, the opioid epidemic cost America nearly $1.5 trillion. The first phase of the fentanyl test strip distribution program is funded by $1.25 million from Wisconsin’s share of the American Rescue Plan Act, and is one of many strategies DHS is using to reduce the harms of drug use. 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. So far this year, more than 5,000 overdoses have been reversed with NARCAN® distributed through this program. NARCAN® also can be purchased at more than 500 pharmacies without a prescription under a standing order.
It’s Not Your Fault (NACoA) (PDF | 12 KB)Assures teens with parents who abuse alcohol or drugs that, “It’s not your fault!” and that they are not alone. Encourages teens to seek emotional support from other adults, school counselors, and youth support groups such as Alateen, and provides a resource list. “Because fentanyl is so powerful, patients are having greater physical withdrawals,” Ward said. “We’ve seen an uptick in the amount of medication we’ve had to prescribe for some patients just to keep them stable.” Until recently, intentional use of fentanyl was mostly limited to the West Coast, but in the past few years, addiction specialists have seen an uptick in use of the drug across the country.
Fentanyl is in a class of medications called narcotic (opiate) analgesics. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Schools and programs serving youth can increase awareness and create safe environments for children. They can educate youth and their community on the dangers of fentanyl and how to help prevent opioid misuse and addiction. There are no medications approved specifically to treat DXM or loperamide addiction.
People start using an opioid – maybe it was prescribed to them or maybe not. Over time, they have to take more of it to have the same effect, whether that’s pain relief or to feel good. Naloxone can be administered by anyone, not just health care workers. Prescription naloxone may be available at your local pharmacy pursuant to the State Health Commissioner’s Standing Order. Some insurance plans may pay some portion of the cost, but coverage varies widely.
Can You Buy Fentanyl Over the Counter?
Right now, test strips are considered “drug paraphernalia” which makes it difficult to determine if other drugs could be laced with fentanyl. Due to high levels of stress, first responders and health care workers are at risk for substance use disorders. The Heroes Helpline is a free, confidential, telephone support line available to EMS and health care workers.
Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, restlessness, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. Xylazine withdrawal can become a critical medical event requiring hospitalization. Clinicians should be prepared to manage both xylazine and opioid withdrawal symptoms for individuals admitted for care.
Together, the trio of a coma, pinpoint pupils and slow or difficult breathing strongly suggest opioid overdose. § It can be administered via a nasal spray or intramuscular injections that will restore normal breathing in someone who has overdosed on an opioid and stopped breathing. O If using substances, use with a trusted person who can respond in case of an overdose. If you are using substances alone, there are resources to keep you safe. Opioids are a class of drugs naturally found in the opium poppy plant. Some opioids are made from the plant directly, and others, like fentanyl, are made by scientists in labs using the same chemical structure (semi-synthetic or synthetic).
The straightforward answer is no; you cannot buy fentanyl over the counter. Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
Reasons Behind Prescription Requirements
Several factors explain why fentanyl is only available through a prescription:
- High potency: Fentanyl is much stronger than other opioids, even in small doses.
- Risk of overdose: Inappropriate use can lead to fatal consequences, making it crucial to control its use.
- Legal regulations: Laws restrict access to potent medications to minimize misuse and illicit distribution.
Common Forms and Uses of Fentanyl
- We may ask for your zip code or other pertinent geographic information in order to track calls being routed to other offices or to accurately identify the local resources appropriate to your needs.
- As Colorado continues to see an increase in fentanyl overdoses, it’s important for parents and families to understand the potential impacts of fentanyl.
- Locations where NARCAN® is available can be found on the DHS website.
Fentanyl is available in various forms, typically including:
- Transdermal patches – used for chronic pain management.
- Lollipops or lozenges – designed for breakthrough pain in cancer patients.
- Injections – utilized in surgical procedures or critical care settings.
The Dangers of Purchasing Fentanyl Illegally
There has been a growing concern regarding the illegal sale of fentanyl, particularly in the form of counterfeit pills. Buying fentanyl from illicit sources poses several dangers:
- Unregulated potency: Illegally obtained fentanyl may contain unpredictable amounts of the drug.
- Risk of contamination: Illegal drug manufacturing can lead to impure or harmful substances being present.
- Legal consequences: Possessing or distributing fentanyl without a prescription can result in serious legal penalties.
FAQs
What should I do if I need pain management?
If you’re experiencing severe pain, consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
Are there alternatives to fentanyl for pain relief?
Yes, there are various alternatives, including other opioids as well as non-opioid medications like NSAIDs, physical therapy, and holistic treatments.
What are the signs of fentanyl misuse?
Signs may include decreased alertness, respiratory depression, altered mental state, and paraphernalia associated with drug use.
How can I stay safe with prescription medications?
Only use medications as prescribed, store them securely, and dispose of any unused medications properly to prevent misuse.
Conclusion
In summary, fentanyl is a highly controlled substance that cannot be purchased over the counter. Its use is strictly regulated to prevent misuse and protect public health. Awareness around the dangers of illegally obtained fentanyl is crucial in combating the opioid epidemic.
