Trystereo New Orleans Harm Reduction Network
In August 2017, in response to an increase in fentanyl in the drug supply in San Francisco, the DOPE Project partnered with the Syringe Access Collaborative (SAC) to pilot a fentanyl test strip monitoring survey. You can still get fentanyl test strips shipped to you if you are not located in Rhode Island. Visit DanceSafe to learn more about how you can get fentanyl test strips as well as other drug testing supplies. You can also purchase strips for delivery from DoseTest and The Bunk Police. It’s important to make sure people know about fentanyl test strips because, if they’re buying a substance off the streets of Philly, they should assume there is fentanyl present in it. It only takes a few minutes to use fentanyl test strips so people can make informed choices for safer use.
Fentanyl testing strips and related education allows people to better understand their risk of an overdose. Fentanyl may not be the only potentially risky substance present in your drugs. Your seller may not always know what other things could be mixed in your supply. Other drug checking tools like reagent kits can be used, but they can be expensive and legality varies by state (updated as of 2019). In some states like Missouri, they are still considered paraphernalia. Naloxone, sold under the name Narcan, is a prescription medication used to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
Even if your drugs test negative for fentanyl, use caution and follow the harm reduction steps (see below) if you are using drugs for recreational purposes. A single pink line appearing on the left-hand side of the strip indicates that fentanyl has been detected. Individuals should call 911 immediately after administering naloxone. Be aware that it may take more than one dose of naloxone to reverse an opioid overdose. People using xylazine can develop a dependence and may be at risk of withdrawal.
- In some states like Missouri, they are still considered paraphernalia.
- In addition to training on using and interpreting the rapid fentanyl test strips, participants also received overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND).
- It’s also important for the person experiencing an overdose not to take any more drugs or alcohol within (at least) a three hour period.
- These agencies are receiving fentanyl test strip packages directly from the manufacturer.
- Additional study across more geographies is warranted and may provide further insights.
Beginning in May 2017, we recruited participants from the 2015 RAPIDS study, 61% of whom previously agreed to be contacted for future research studies. The eligibility criteria for RAPIDS included being aged 18 to 29, residing in Rhode Island, not currently being in alcohol or substance abuse treatment programs, and reporting past 30-day non-medical use of prescription opioids. From May to September 2017, we recruited additional young adults who use drugs in Rhode Island through internet advertisements (e.g., Craigslist and Reddit), digital bus advertisements, public canvassing, and word of mouth.
These agencies are receiving fentanyl test strip packages directly from the manufacturer. Each package contains one fentanyl test strip and instructions on how to use it. The participating organizations are handing out the packages at no cost. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) today announced that 120,600 fentanyl test strips have been distributed to organizations across the state to help prevent drug overdose deaths.
Descriptive statistics were used to analyze all survey data and services reported. Data collected included monthly reports of kits distributed, manner of distribution (via outreach, other mechanism), and services provided or referrals made at kit distribution. Mid-pilot, small cups and instructions to dilute suspected methamphetamine samples were added to kits to improve test validity12 along with masks and hand sanitizer for COVID-19 safety. Midpoint and final convenings gathered agencies to share successes and challenges. An LGBTQ+ positive residential treatment program using evidenced-based, individualized strategies to help people recover from drug and alcohol addiction.
Fentanyl test strips are a crucial tool for individuals concerned about drug safety. As the opioid crisis continues, these strips help users determine whether substances contain fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that can be extremely dangerous in even small amounts.
Where Can I Buy Fentanyl Test Strips?
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. Please note that if you do not use drugs frequently or daily, it is not necessary to request more than a couple test strips from free harm reduction programs.
When seeking to purchase fentanyl test strips, consider the following options:
Any opioid pill not from a pharmacy is highly likely to be fake and contain fentanyl. It costs Jess Tilley $1 to purchase a fentanyl test strip—a small sum, until you consider that she’s buying them by the hundreds. “If you had a little bit of the drug you could pop in here…you would add a little bit of water… and then you use this test strip, hold it in, and if there was fentanyl present, two red lines or pink lines would appear,” says Mark Townsend. Any drug not prescribed by a licensed pharmacy could contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. This project was supported by a research seed grant from the Office of the Vice President of Research at Brown University to Brandon D.L. Marshall, PhD. The funders had no role in study design, data analysis, or decision to publish.
- Online Retailers: Websites such as Amazon and specialized health sites often have fentanyl test strips available for sale.
- Local Pharmacies: Some pharmacies may stock fentanyl test strips, although it’s advisable to call ahead to confirm availability.
- Harm Reduction Organizations: Many nonprofits focused on harm reduction offer fentanyl test strips for free or at a low cost, and they often provide valuable resources on safe usage.
- Health Departments: Local health departments may distribute fentanyl test strips, especially in areas heavily affected by the opioid crisis.
- Community Events: Look for health fairs or community events that focus on drug safety, as they can be a source of free test strips.
Why Are Fentanyl Test Strips Important?
Fentanyl test strips play a vital role in preventing overdose by allowing users to test substances before consumption. Here are key reasons for their importance:
- They provide immediate results, enabling safer drug use decisions.
- They can help reduce the stigma around drug testing, encouraging more people to use them.
- They assist in educational outreach about the risks of fentanyl.
How to Use Fentanyl Test Strips
Using fentanyl test strips is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Prepare a sample of the substance you wish to test. Use a small, manageable amount.
- Dissolve the substance in a small amount of water.
- Dip the fentanyl test strip into the solution according to the instructions provided.
- Wait for the specified time (usually a couple of minutes) to see the result.
Common Questions About Fentanyl Test Strips
Are fentanyl test strips accurate?
While fentanyl test strips are generally accurate, they may have limitations, including their ability to detect all analogs of fentanyl. Always consider them as one part of a broader harm reduction strategy.
Can I use them on all drugs?
Fentanyl test strips can test for the presence of fentanyl in various substances, but they are primarily designed for use with powders and not pills.
How can I get fentanyl test strips for free?
Many harm reduction organizations and local health initiatives provide free fentanyl test strips. Check for services in your area that focus on drug safety education.
Final Thoughts
In an environment where the risks associated with drug use are significant, the question where can I buy fentanyl test strips reflects a growing awareness of safety and responsibility. Acquiring these strips can be a pivotal step towards harm reduction and increased awareness of the dangers that fentanyl poses.
