What Xylazine Is, Treatment Options And How The White House Is Responding With Rahul Gupta, MD, MPH

Carry Naloxone

Can You Buy Fentanyl: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Is Fentanyl Ending Up In So Many Different Types Of Drugs?

Help And Resources

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is a Schedule II prescription drug, which means it has a high potential for abuse and is classified as a dangerous substance. Despite its dangers, many people wonder, “can you buy fentanyl?” The answer is no, you cannot legally buy fentanyl without a prescription. However, there are many illegal ways to obtain the drug.

However, naloxone may put a person dependent on opioids into withdrawal, which can be a very painful and uncomfortable experience. This process is rarely instantaneous; respiratory depression can last over the course of minutes to several hours after the drug was used until a person stops breathing completely. This means there is usually time to intervene between when an overdose starts and the person’s death. As fentanyl floods the illicit drug market, the price for a pill has dropped substantially in the past few years. The vaping is going to come back in full force, and I think we’re going to start seeing an increase in overdose, in overdose deaths,” said Det. Cardinale.

Don’t leave your drugs in the oven for too long after they’re dry. If your drugs weren’t brown to begin with, a tan or brown tint might mean that you’ve burned them. There are many ways to do this, but one of the most popular is pouring the water into a flat-bottomed glass or ceramic dish (like a Pyrex pie dish) and heating it. Other methods involve double boilers, air evaporation (for small quantities), or even blow driers. Use a milligram scale to get the weight of the crystals or powder you are going to test.

The illicit trade in fentanyl – a powerful opioid between 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine – is a deadly enterprise that spans organized crime groups in China, Mexico and much of the western world. And in 2023, American enforcement agencies seized enough fentanyl to kill every citizen of the United States. For example, a Fentanyl-laced Percocet M-30 pill can cost the buyer between $20 to $30 a pill.

The participating organizations are handing out the packages at no cost. Thankfully, despite the fact that technically, fentanyl test strips have been illegal, they have been relatively available through harm-reduction organizations and substance-use-disorder treatment organizations. It’s been a great resource to be able to offer those to people and to start a conversation about understanding contamination and the risks of unintentional overdose. Well, because we have this unregulated supply, the end user is basically powerless over the drug supply. They are at the mercy of what’s happening in the supply chain and supply-side pressures on the market, and there’s been this shift from lower-potency heroin to essentially all illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

Illegal Ways to Obtain Fentanyl

Illicit drug markets: Fentanyl is often sold on the illegal drug market, either as a standalone product or mixed with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. It is often manufactured in clandestine laboratories and sold in pill or powder form.

Online markets: Fentanyl can also be purchased online through illegal marketplaces on the dark web. These marketplaces often require the use of cryptocurrency and anonymous browsing software to complete transactions.

Fake prescription pills: Fentanyl is sometimes pressed into counterfeit prescription pills and sold on the street as legitimate medications. These fake pills can be extremely dangerous, as they often contain much higher doses of fentanyl than prescribed.

• It’s hard to know if they were intentionally using multiple substances simultaneously or if it was an unintentional exposure.
• Learn the signs of a fentanyl poisoning and speak with your doctor or pharmacist about obtaining naloxone to carry and keep at home.
• This is because it takes very little to produce a high with fentanyl, making it a cheaper option.
• In summary, this study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of take-home rapid fentanyl tests.
• When someone is addicted to drugs, they continue to use them even though they cause health problems or issues at work, school, or home.

Dangers of Fentanyl Abuse

Fentanyl is a highly potent drug that can cause serious harm or even death, especially when taken in high doses or mixed with other substances. Some of the dangers of fentanyl abuse include:

• Respiratory depression: Fentanyl can slow down breathing to dangerously low levels, which can lead to coma or death.
• Addiction: Fentanyl is highly addictive and can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when stopped.
• Overdose: Fentanyl overdoses can be fatal and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include slowed breathing, unresponsiveness, and blue lips or fingertips.

FAQs

Can you buy fentanyl online? While it is possible to purchase fentanyl online through illegal marketplaces on the dark web, it is how much do drugs cost on the dark web illegal and extremely dangerous. Many of these marketplaces are scams, and even legitimate ones can be shut down by law enforcement at any time.

Is fentanyl legal in the US? Fentanyl is a Schedule II prescription drug in the US, which means it has a high potential for abuse and is classified as a dangerous substance. It is illegal to possess or distribute fentanyl without a valid prescription.

How is fentanyl made? Fentanyl is synthesized in clandestine laboratories using a variety of chemicals and precursors. The exact process and ingredients used can vary, but it typically involves the reaction of a precursor chemical with an opioid base such as morphine or codeine.

What does fentanyl look like? Fentanyl can come in a variety of forms, including powder, pills, or patches. It is often white or off-white in color and may be sold in small plastic bags or vials.

How is fentanyl detected in drug tests? Fentanyl can be detected in urine, blood, and hair drug tests. However, the detection window can vary depending on the type of test and the frequency of use.

Can you overdose on fentanyl? Yes, fentanyl overdoses can be fatal and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include slowed breathing, unresponsiveness, and blue lips or fingertips.

What is the difference between fentanyl and heroin? Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is much stronger than heroin, which is a natural opioid derived from the poppy plant. Fentanyl is often mixed with heroin to increase its potency, but this can also increase the risk of overdose.

How is fentanyl addiction treated? Fentanyl addiction can be treated with a combination of medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, and support groups. It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction.

Can you die from fentanyl withdrawal? While fentanyl withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, it is not typically life-threatening. However, it is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms or have a history of medical complications.

What is the legal penalty for possessing fentanyl? The legal penalty for possessing fentanyl without a valid prescription can vary depending on the amount and location of the offense. It can range from a misdemeanor to a felony and may include fines, imprisonment, or both.

Can you test for fentanyl in a home lab? While it is possible to test for fentanyl using home drug testing kits, it is important to use caution and follow all instructions carefully. Fentanyl is a highly potent drug, and even small amounts can be dangerous.

Is fentanyl used in medical procedures? Yes, fentanyl is used in medical procedures as a pain reliever and anesthetic. It is typically administered by a healthcare professional in a controlled setting.

Can fentanyl be absorbed through the skin? Yes, fentanyl can be absorbed through the skin, which is why it is often administered as a patch. However, this can also make it dangerous if it comes into contact with the skin accidentally, such as through handling or touching a contaminated surface.

Can fentanyl be detected in a post-mortem examination? Yes, fentanyl can be detected in a post-mortem examination through toxicology testing. However, the detection window can vary depending on the type of test and the frequency of use.

How does fentanyl affect the brain? Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which reduces the perception of pain and produces a sense of euphoria. However, it can also cause respiratory depression, addiction, and overdose.

What is the history of fentanyl? Fentanyl was first synthesized in 1960 by Paul Janssen, a Belgian chemist and pharmacologist. It was initially used as a pain reliever for cancer patients and has since become a popular drug of abuse due to its high potency and availability.

How is fentanyl trafficked? Fentanyl is often trafficked through the mail or courier services, as well as through personal vehicles and transportation networks. It is often manufactured in clandestine laboratories in Mexico and China and smuggled into the US through border crossings and shipping ports.

What is the difference between fentanyl and carfentanil? Carfentanil is a derivative of fentanyl that is even more potent, with a potency 10,000 times greater than morphine. It is used as an elephant tranquilizer and is not approved for human use. Carfentanil is extremely dangerous and can be fatal even in small doses.

Can fentanyl be used as a date rape drug? Yes, fentanyl can be used as a date rape drug due to its potency and ability to cause sedation and amnesia. However, it is not as commonly used for this purpose as other drugs such as Rohypnol or GHB.

How does fentanyl affect pregnancy? Fentanyl can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus. It can cause respiratory depression, withdrawal symptoms, and other complications. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are pregnant and using fentanyl.

Can fentanyl be used as a weapon? Yes, fentanyl can be used as a weapon by dispersing it in a public space or using it to contaminate food or water supplies. However, this is a rare occurrence and is not a common threat to public safety.

What is the difference between fentanyl and sufentanil? Sufentanil is a derivative of fentanyl that is even more potent, with a potency 5-10 times greater than fentanyl. It is used as an anesthetic in surgical procedures and is not approved for use as a pain reliever outside of a hospital setting.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for opioid addiction? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for opioid addiction due to its high potency and potential for abuse. Instead, medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are used to treat opioid addiction.

How does fentanyl affect the heart? Fentanyl can cause a variety of cardiovascular effects, including decreased heart rate, low blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms. It can also increase the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for pain? Yes, fentanyl is used as a pain reliever for moderate to severe pain, particularly in patients who are already opioid-tolerant. It is typically administered through a patch, lozenge, or injection.

How does fentanyl affect the liver? Fentanyl can cause liver damage and toxicity, particularly when used in high doses or for extended periods of time. It can also interact with other medications that are metabolized by the liver, increasing the risk of liver damage.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for depression? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for depression due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are used to treat depression.

How does fentanyl affect the kidneys? Fentanyl can cause kidney damage and toxicity, particularly when used in high doses or for how to buy molly extended periods of time. It can also interact with other medications that are metabolized by the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney damage.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for anxiety? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for anxiety due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as benzodiazepines and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to treat anxiety.

How does fentanyl affect the respiratory system? Fentanyl can cause respiratory depression, which is a slowing down of breathing that can be life-threatening. It can also cause shallow breathing, irregular breathing patterns, and other respiratory complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for PTSD? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for PTSD due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are used to treat PTSD.

How does fentanyl affect the immune system? Fentanyl can suppress the immune system, making users more susceptible to infections and other health complications. It can also interact with other medications that affect the immune system, increasing the risk of immune suppression.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for insomnia? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for insomnia due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine sedatives are used to treat insomnia.

How does fentanyl affect the digestive system? Fentanyl can cause constipation, nausea, vomiting, and other digestive complications. It can also interact with other medications that affect the digestive system, increasing the risk of digestive complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for ADHD? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for ADHD due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as stimulants and non-stimulant medications are used to treat ADHD.

How does fentanyl affect the nervous system? Fentanyl can cause a variety of neurological effects, including dizziness, confusion, and hallucinations. It can also cause seizures, coma, and other neurological complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for migraines? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for migraines due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as triptans and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to treat migraines.

How does fentanyl affect the musculoskeletal system? Fentanyl can cause muscle weakness, stiffness, and other musculoskeletal complications. It can also interact with other medications that affect the musculoskeletal system, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for fibromyalgia? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for fibromyalgia due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers are used to treat fibromyalgia.

How does fentanyl affect the reproductive system? Fentanyl can affect the reproductive system, particularly in women. It can cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, and other reproductive complications. It can also interact with other medications that affect the reproductive system, increasing the risk of reproductive complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for endometriosis? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for endometriosis due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as hormonal therapies, pain relievers, and surgery are used to treat endometriosis.

How does fentanyl affect the skin? Fentanyl can cause skin rashes, itching, and other dermatological complications. It can also interact with other medications that affect the skin, increasing the risk of dermatological complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for psoriasis? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for psoriasis due to its potential what is a darknet market for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as topical treatments, phototherapy, and systemic therapies are used to treat psoriasis.

How does fentanyl affect the eyes? Fentanyl can cause vision changes, blurred vision, and other ocular complications. It can also interact with other medications that affect the eyes, increasing the risk of ocular complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for glaucoma? No, fentanyl is not used as a treatment for glaucoma due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Instead, medications such as prostaglandin analogs, beta blockers, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are used to treat glaucoma.

How does fentanyl affect the ears? Fentanyl can cause hearing changes, tinnitus, and other auditory complications. dark web url It can also interact with other medications that affect the ears, increasing the risk of auditory complications.

Can fentanyl be used as a treatment for tinnitus? No, fentanyl is not used as