For People Who Use Alone
Understanding Fentanyl
The shipper was Capsulcn International, a company set up in abroad. Because fentanyl and other synthetics are so much stronger, they take up a lot less space and can be much more easily hidden in other products. For example, it can be hidden in fake “Silica Gel” packets and included with another product, and was uncovered by the Globe and Mail.
Since then, xylazine has been found in a small but increasing amount of overdose deaths in Oregon. In 2020, there were two overdose deaths where xylazine was identified in the toxicology report, followed by nine in 2021 and nine (so far) in 2022. The Oregon Health Authority expects to see a significant increase in xylazine-involved overdose deaths in 2023 once the data are finalized. So far, all overdose deaths in Oregon where xylazine was present also involved fentanyl. Distributors in the US sell counterfeit pills on social media, appealing to a younger, more opioid naïve audience that use social media apps. Opioid naïve individuals are at high risk of accidental overdose because they do not have a tolerance for opioids, may not have access to naloxone, and may not know how to decrease overdose risk.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that has gained attention for its medical uses as well as its potential for misuse. It is primarily used to treat patients with severe pain, particularly after surgery or for those with chronic pain conditions.
Other harm reduction strategies include testing your substances for the presence of fentanyl prior to use. Pills and other drugs are now often purchased through SnapChat, Gaming Platform “chat” functions, and other dark web sites. Today, there are about 9,300 websites selling drugs illegally on thedarkweb. According to the Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse, ONE in FIVE teens have already tried prescription drugs illegally.
This substance is significantly more powerful than morphine, which makes understanding its acquisition critical for safety and legality.
- Programs include screenings for substance use, trainings, identity workshops, and more.
- Right now, PCC is primarily focused on cocaine supply, of course, to Southern Cone and through West Africa into Europe.
- Unlike injection drug users, she was abusing her doctor-prescribed fentanyl patches.
You can also find test strips at some of the Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs on this list. Fentanyl is a strong medicine made from opioids (chemicals used to treat sudden and ongoing pain). It’s up to 100 times stronger than other opioids like morphine, heroin, or oxycodone. Any drug in any form (powder, pill) you get from a dealer, friend or an online source could have fentanyl in it.
Legal Aspects of Purchasing Fentanyl
As the sun goes down that night, first responders rush from overdose to overdose. Tonight, he’s back at the corner looking for drugs, or at least a buddy who can hook him up. He’d go to a shelter, but he knows there’s a warrant out for his arrest and he’s afraid the staff will tip off the cops.
Before considering how to buy fentanyl, it’s vital to understand the legal framework surrounding this drug:
This emphasizes how, in this instance, the transparency of cryptoassets can be used to identify activity that illicit actors may have gone to great lengths to conceal. ASAP Market is not the only dark web marketplace to – supposedly inadvertently – facilitate the fentanyl trade. The Investigator graph below shows that some vendors are active on a number of other dark markets, including Incognito, Vice City Market and World Market.
- Prescription Requirement: In many jurisdictions, fentanyl can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional.
- Controlled Substance: It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, which imposes strict regulations on its distribution.
- Possible Legal Consequences: Purchasing fentanyl without a prescription or from unauthorized sellers can lead to severe legal ramifications.
In a medical setting, it can be administered via injection, patch, or lozenge. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is made in a lab from precursor chemicals instead of from poppies. It is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. According to the DEA, 2 milligrams of fentanyl is generally considereda lethal dose for most people.
The fentanyl test strips given away were packaged into kits including 10 strips, each with instructions on how to use them, a pocket-sized set of instructions with pictures, and information on fentanyl. The kits also included a NEXT Distro card, which is a mail-based program where people can receive free Narcan and fentanyl test strips. Xylazine test strips (XTS) are small strips of paper that can be placed within a personal sample of drugs to detect the presence of xylazine.
How to Obtain Fentanyl Legally
If you need to acquire fentanyl for legitimate medical reasons, follow these steps:
- Consult a Doctor: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your pain management needs.
- Receive a Prescription: If deemed necessary, your doctor will provide a prescription for fentanyl.
- Choose a Licensed Pharmacy: Fill your prescription at a licensed pharmacy that stocks controlled substances.
- Follow Dosage Instructions: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and usage guidelines to avoid adverse effects.
Potential Risks of Misuse
Misusing fentanyl can have dire consequences:
- Overdose: Due to its potency, even small miscalculations in dosage can lead to accidental overdose.
- Dependency: Prolonged misuse can result in physical dependency and addiction.
- Legal Repercussions: Engaging in illicit purchasing can lead to criminal charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get fentanyl without a prescription?
No, in most places, fentanyl is only available through a prescription due to its high potential for abuse and serious side effects.
What should I do if I have a prescription for fentanyl?
If you have a prescription, follow all your doctor’s instructions carefully and only obtain the medication from licensed pharmacies.
What are the alternatives to fentanyl for pain management?
There are various alternatives available, including:
- Non-opioid Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective for mild to moderate pain.
- Physical Therapy: This can provide relief for chronic pain conditions.
- Other Opioids: Medications such as hydrocodone or oxycodone may be less potent options.
Conclusion
Understanding how to buy fentanyl legally is crucial for both safety and health. Acquiring this medication through appropriate medical channels is the best approach to ensure efficacy while minimizing risks. Always prioritize dialogue with healthcare professionals regarding your medication needs.
