WHERE TO FIND NARCAN And FENTANYL TEST STRIPS
Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
There are a few ways to test for fentanyl in a drug sample, but the easiest (and only do-it-yourself) option is to use a test strip. The Rapid Response™ Fentanyl (FYL) Test Strip Kit is a lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of Fentanyl/ Norfentanyl in liquid and powder substances at the cut-off concentration of 200 ng/mL. 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. Support for the strips has become fairly bipartisan, but small clusters of conservative lawmakers have consistently opposed legislation to increase access to the strips, such as in Texas where bills have been stalled for weeks. 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.
With the increasing prevalence of fentanyl in illicit drugs, ensuring safety through testing is vital. Fentanyl test strips provide a way for individuals to check substance purity and mitigate the risk of overdose.
- At this time, there are no clear guidelines as to how FTS could be used to detect fentanyl in these substances.
- Illicitly made fentanyl is often found in counterfeit pills, which are made to look like prescription drugs or may be added to other illicit drugs such as methamphetamine or cocaine.
- Testing drugs for the presence of fentanyl using fentanyl test strips can lower overdose risk.
- Despite bipartisan support, the Senate has not yet been able to vote on the bill while it remains stuck in a Republican-led committee.
- The CDC, the American Medical Association, and numerous other agencies and researchers have endorsed the use of fentanyl test strips, and substantial research shows their value in overdose prevention.
- Recognizing the value of fentanyl test strips in reducing the harms of drug use, Gov. Tony Evers signed legislation in March to allow the test strips to be used in Wisconsin.
People who use drugs that may contain Fentanyl should always carry or have access to Narcan, the lifesaving Opioid overdose drug also known as Naloxone. Narcan can be found in local pharmacies across the state and is available to anyone over 18 at no cost. In some cases, using meth or coke, especially at higher doses, can lead to another type of overdose called Overamping. It must be introduced into the bloodstream or a mucus membrane in order for someone to feel the effects.
Learn more about physicians’ actions toward ending the nation’s drug-related overdose and death epidemic—and what still needs to be done. The nation’s drug-related overdose and death epidemic demands immediate and collective action, with physicians taking the lead. Use 1 teaspoon of water per every 10 mg of crystal or powder meth, MDMA, or ecstasy to dissolve the drugs in a small container (like a soda bottle cap). If you’re using a different type of drug, use half a teaspoon of water instead. If you know or think someone is struggling with addiction, ask them if you can help.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
The vast majority of U.S. drug overdoses last year were from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, according to the U.S. • No matter what drug they are using, ALWAYS HAVE NALOXONE/NARCAN. Fentanyl is frequently found in all drugs (cocaine, meth, street purchased pills, etc.)• TEST THE SUPPLY. Knowing whether fentanyl is present in the drug can help guide decisions related to use.• NEVER USE ALONE. Having someone with them allows them to call 911 and provide care if they overdose.• IF THEY DO USE ALONE, HAVE THEM ASK SOMEONE TO CHECK ON THEM.
Fentanyl test strips are distributed for personal use through the Utah Syringe Services Providers and community-based organizations across Utah. Contact the organizations closest to you to verify hours of operation and supply. Our goal is to assist those experiencing a substance use disorder get the help needed and reduce the impact of drug use on Utah’s communities. If you are around people or situations where an opioid overdose may occur, such as someone in your family uses opioids, you can become trained on how to administer it and have some on hand in case there is an overdose. Free naloxone nasal spray is being provided to individuals in the community and first responders to help combat the opioid crisis and reverse overdose deaths.
For instance, SIFs in Canada distribute FTS to their clients; however, clients must test their drugs in that same setting [51–53]. In Europe, drug testing largely takes place at music venues and mobile test sites with trained professionals [27, 54]. In contrast, syringe service programs (SSPs) in the US are just beginning to disseminate FTS to their clients for at-home use outside of a clinical or supervised context [40, 41]. State governments and departments of health, such as those in California, Vermont, and Maine, are also providing funding for the purchase and dispersal of take-home FTS through existing SSPs [37–39, 42]. However, there are debates as to whether there is sufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of home testing programs [32].
In studies, up to 77 percent of individuals whose drugs tested positive for fentanyl took precautions to reduce their risk of overdose. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used in clinical settings to treat severe pain. It can be found in the illicit drug market and is being mixed with other illicitly manufactured opioids like heroin, in pressed pills, cocaine, MDMA, and methamphetamines to increase their potency. Because of how potent it is, it can significantly increase the risk of overdose. These findings provide important perspectives on the use of FTS among young adults who use drugs.
Using fentanyl test strips can make a significant difference in harm reduction. Here are several reasons why:
- Immediate Results: Provides quick feedback on the presence of fentanyl.
- Easy to Use: Simple instructions aid in testing various substances.
- Cost-Effective: Generally affordable compared to potential medical costs from overdoses.
- Empowerment: Educates users about the risks associated with their substance use.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Test Strips
Several options are available for those wondering where to buy fentanyl test strips. Here are reliable sources:
Online Retailers
Many online platforms sell fentanyl test strips, offering convenience and often discrete shipping:
- Amaazon: Features various brands, read reviews before purchasing.
- Harm Reduction Coalition: Offers educational resources along with testing strips.
- Home Health Supply: Sells test strips with clear instructions.
- Drug test stores: Specialized in testing kits, often include fentanyl tests.
Local Drug Stores and Pharmacies
Some community pharmacies and drug stores may have fentanyl test strips available:
- Check larger chain pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens.
- Inquire at local health clinics, which may provide them free of charge.
- Visit harm reduction programs or local nonprofits that focus on overdose prevention.
Community Health Programs
Many community health organizations distribute fentanyl test strips for free:
- Search for needle exchange programs in your area.
- Contact local public health departments for resources.
- Participate in community events focused on drug awareness and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fentanyl test strips detect all opioids?
No. Fentanyl test strips are specific for fentanyl and its analogs, and do not test for other opioids.
How accurate are fentanyl test strips?
Accuracy varies, but generally, they provide reliable indicators of the presence of fentanyl when used correctly.
Are fentanyl test strips legal to buy?
Yes, in most areas, fentanyl test strips can be legally purchased as they are considered harm reduction tools.
Conclusion
Incorporating fentanyl test strips into drug use practices can significantly enhance safety. Understanding where to buy fentanyl test strips not only helps in prevention but also empowers users to make informed decisions. Remember to utilize reputable sources and stay educated about the substances you may encounter.
