We instructed participants in this first group to use the FTS in their urine in concordance with how the product is intended to be used [25, 45]. Participants recruited between mid-July 2017 and September 2017 were thus trained to test a drug sample or their drug residue (before consumption). In both groups, participants were instructed that a negative FTS did not necessarily indicate an absence of fentanyl contaminants or zero overdose risk and were instructed to always use their drugs with caution. Participants were provided with overdose education and naloxone following the FTS training. This education also included training on how to use drugs more safely (such as using with someone else, having naloxone, and using a smaller initial dose).
Fentanyl test strips have become an essential tool in harm reduction efforts, allowing individuals to test their substances for the presence of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that is often mixed with other drugs. These test strips can help prevent accidental overdoses and save lives. If you are looking to purchase fentanyl test strips, here are some places where you can buy them:
Responding To An Opioid Overdose
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this website is not intended to be a substitute for, or to be relied upon as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified health provider with questions regarding a medical condition.
Online Retailers
Harm Reduction Needs You Join The Movement
However, many states are changing their policies to help prevent opioid overdoses and save lives. Tennessee recently changed its policy and legalized fentanyl test strips, no longer considering these prevention tools as paraphernalia.4 You can research state-by-state legality to find out more about access in your area online. 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.
- It’s important to note that test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl but not how much is present or its strength.
- The legislation would amend the Controlled Substances Act, which bans the use, sale, import and export of drug paraphernalia.
- This could prove to be true in Rhode Island where participants noted that fentanyl contamination is likely.
- A new study, authored by a group of scientists from Brown University, Boston University, and the University of British Columbia, provides support for the idea that test strips could be a potent tool in the fight against fentanyl.
- Fentanyl test strips detect the presence of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than morphine, in unregulated injectable drugs, powders and pills.
One of the easiest ways to purchase fentanyl test strips is through online retailers. Websites like Amazon, DanceSafe, and The Bunk Police offer fentanyl test strips for sale. Make sure to read reviews and choose a reputable seller to ensure the quality and accuracy of the test strips.
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. Your concern might be just what they need to start their recovery journey, and your support could make all the difference in their success.
CAN THE PERSON OVERDOSE AGAIN IF I’VE JUST GIVEN THEM NALOXONE?
Local Harm Reduction Organizations
While most states once classified drug testing strips as illegal paraphernalia, fentanyl test strips are now legal in a large majority of states. More recently, BTNX, a Canadian company that sells fentanyl test strips, also introduced strips used to test for xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer that is increasingly present in the U.S. opioid supply. Drug-checking, an increasingly common harm-reduction tactic, involves testing a supply of illicit drugs to determine its contents. In recent years, as fentanyl has come to contaminate much of the illicit drug supply in the U.S., the strategy has become a critical component of overdose-prevention efforts. No matter the result from using fentanyl test strips, having naloxone nearby is key to saving a life in case an opioid overdose does happen.
How Do I Get Free Fentanyl Test Strips?
Many local harm reduction organizations provide fentanyl test strips for free or at a reduced cost. These organizations often hold outreach events or have drop-in centers where individuals can access resources like test strips, naloxone kits, and safe injection supplies. Contact your local harm reduction organization to inquire about obtaining fentanyl test strips.
Pharmacies
Another participant described how a positive FTS result contributed to a change in her “mindset” about her drug use and keeping naloxone nearby. In addition to reports of feeling judged or stigmatized, other participants suggested fear of legal ramifications or other risks if they were to test their drugs someplace other than their home. In addition to wanting to use FTS before drug use, several participants alluded to the fact that using a urine-based test was not convenient. If there was a like test strip you know that you could mix a bit of your heroin, or what you think is heroin in water and dip the strip in it, and something like that, you know, like to be able to test it before you use it. Because, you know, afterwards it could be too late, you know (Respondent 13, male of non-disclosed race, age 22). When I say in front of them, I mean the dealers or whoever I was sourcing the product from…
Some pharmacies may also carry fentanyl test strips, especially in areas heavily impacted by the opioid crisis. You can ask your pharmacist if they stock fentanyl test strips or if they can order them for you. Keep in mind that not all pharmacies may carry these test strips, so it’s best to call ahead and check availability.
In Conclusion
Fentanyl test strips are a vital tool in reducing the risk of fentanyl-related overdoses. By purchasing and using these test strips, individuals can make more informed decisions about their drug use and take steps to protect themselves and others. Whether you choose to buy fentanyl test strips online, from a local harm reduction organization, or from a pharmacy, it’s important to prioritize safety and harm reduction in all drug-related activities.
