Artist’s Death Spotlights Peril Posed By Xylazine-fentanyl Mix
During times of individual and collective stress, there is a potential for increased opioid use as a way to self-medicate. Opioids, used in tandem with alcohol or other “downers” (such as Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and sleep medications) are particularly dangerous, and Narcan can save lives while help is on the way. A lethally potent drug is driving the rapid rise in overdose deaths, killing thousands of people who don’t even know they’ve taken it. No drug has fueled the current spike in overdose deaths more than fentanyl. The synthetic opioid claimed two thirds of the record 64,000 such fatalities in the U.S. in 2016.
Understanding Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, significantly stronger than morphine. It is used medically for pain management but is also associated with a high risk of addiction and overdose. Because of its potency, understanding where to buy fentanyl legally and safely is crucial.
The campaign targeted areas that had seen an increase in overdoses as well as areas where people use drugs recreationally. Fentanyl overdoses and deaths have increased over the past few years. Most people don’t know it is a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.
Medical Uses of Fentanyl
Learning about drug myths is just as helpful a harm reduction and overdose prevention tool as fentanyl test strips. Fentanyl has been found in not just heroin, but cocaine, methamphetamine, counterfeit pills, and other street drugs. Testing every time before you use may not be enough, and some drugs like weed don’t need to be tested at all. Opioid overdose deaths are increasing at a devastating rate and many point to fentanyl alone as the culprit. The city has taken steps such as hiring outreach workers, training emergency responders and enhancing resources to support recovery.
Every Wednesday, the SUPHR staff partnered with South Philly Punks with Lunch at Broad and Snyder. They gave out homemade food, drinks, clothing, and additional harm reduction supplies. They even would bring a radio and we would listen to music. He says he has never seen anything like the boom in fentanyl cases here in the San Joaquin Valley.
Fentanyl is prescribed for various medical conditions, including:
- Severe pain management in cancer patients
- Pain relief during and after surgeries
- Chronic pain in patients who are tolerant to other opioids
In addition, the State of Colorado has a policy in place to protect “Good Samaritans”, or people who call for help in an emergency. When you use alcohol, you know when you’re ordering a glass of wine, a beer, or a cocktail. You know roughly what the alcohol by volume content is, and you can make choices around how much you’re going to consume and the impact it’ll have on your body. The POD is open for one hour, but participants should plan for only a 15-minute window to complete the training during this hour.
On Saturday, June 28, Florida joined more than 30 other states that have moved to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips, in what many advocates say is a long overdue step toward fighting drug overdoses. The bill, known as Senate Bill 164, was part of a group of 8 other bills sent to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. Sponsored by Sen. Tina Polsky-D, Boca Raton, the bill passed unanimously in both chambers after years of similar bills being shot down during the last weeks of the session. There are many different fentanyl-like drugs and it’s hard to tell the difference between them all by just taste, smell, color, or feel.
Many of the opioid pills and powders sold on the street are fake. They often contain fentanyl in potentially deadly amounts but are mislabeled as other opioids. The DEA sampled tablets seized nationwide between January and March 2019. It found 27 percent contained potentially lethal doses of fentanyl.
- The approach aims to protect people who are engaged in higher-risk behaviour while at the same time, supporting them towards treatment and recovery.
- Partnership to End Addiction is here if you need help thinking this through.
- Fentanyl powder is also being added to other street drugs to increase their potency.
- Any time a person consumes an illicit pill in the age of fentanyl, they risk dying.
- Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine.
- Encourages teens to seek emotional support from other adults, school counselors, and youth support groups such as Alateen, and provides a resource list.
Legal Purchase of Fentanyl
When considering where to buy fentanyl, it is essential to follow legal channels to avoid illicit substances. Here are some legitimate options:
- Prescription from a Doctor: The most reliable way to obtain fentanyl is through a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. This ensures its use is monitored and safe.
- Pharmacies: Once prescribed, fentanyl patches, lozenges, or injectable forms can be obtained at licensed pharmacies.
- Hospitals: Inpatient care facilities often administer fentanyl under strict medical supervision.
Risks of Buying Fentanyl Illegally
While the internet may seem like a convenient option for purchasing fentanyl, acquiring it without a prescription poses significant risks:
- Legal Consequences: Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal and can result in severe legal penalties.
- Health Risks: Illegally obtained fentanyl may be mixed with other substances, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Lack of Quality Control: Unlike regulated medications, street versions of fentanyl can be impure and life-threatening.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get fentanyl over the counter?
No, fentanyl is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter. It requires a doctor’s evaluation and prescription.
2. What forms of fentanyl are available?
Fentanyl is available in several forms, including:
- Patches
- Pills
- Lozenges
- Injectable solutions
3. How should fentanyl be used safely?
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, use the prescribed dosage, and never combine fentanyl with other substances without medical advice to avoid dangerous interactions.
4. Where can I find support for addiction?
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it’s important to seek help. Resources include local rehabilitation centers, support groups, and healthcare providers specializing in addiction.
Conclusion
Understanding where to buy fentanyl legally can help prevent misuse and addiction. Always prioritize safety and legality by consulting healthcare professionals and using licensed pharmacies to obtain this potent medication.