SUPHR staff recommend that folks take some test strips and share them with loved ones who might need them. They even distributed them to businesses, such as barbershops, smoke shops, and individuals in cars took fentanyl test strips. While California has made some positive strides in the fight against opioids (the latest data show that prescriptions in the state are down), deaths from one particularly powerful opioid, fentanyl, are up. The strips developed by the biotechnology company BTNX based in Toronto, Canada, are only sold to governments and harm reduction programs. CEO and founder Iqbal Sunderani said the state of California is his biggest customer. 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.
Understanding Fentanyl Test Strips
Fentanyl test strips are a crucial harm reduction tool used to detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs. As fentanyl continues to pose a significant risk in the drug supply, knowing where to obtain these strips can save lives.
Understanding the perceptions of PWUD regarding FTS can formatively assist in the development and implementation of rapid fentanyl testing programs in the US and in other settings experiencing a high burden of fentanyl-involved overdose. The first phase of the fentanyl test strip distribution program is funded by $1.25 million from Wisconsin’s share of the American Rescue Plan Act, and is one of many strategies DHS is using to reduce the harms of drug use. Since 2019, 134,280 doses of NARCAN® have been distributed at no cost through community agencies to people who use opioids or drugs that could be mixed with opioids, and their families and friends. So far this year, more than 5,000 overdoses have been reversed with NARCAN® distributed through this program.
- Implications for overdose prevention and initiating treatment with medications for opioid use disorder are described.
- This also applies to pressed tablets, part of a tablet could contain fentanyl while another part has none.
- If you are around people or situations where an opioid overdose may occur, such as someone in your family uses opioids, you can become trained on how to administer it and have some on hand in case there is an overdose.
- King County worked with Rescue Agency to create Laced & Lethal, a campaign to educate youth about fentanyl, and how to respond to overdose.
- 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.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether young adults who use drugs were willing to use rapid test strips as a harm reduction intervention to prevent overdose. We hypothesized that those who had ever overdosed would be more willing to use the test strips. According to the CDC 82.3% of opioid overdose deaths in 2020 involved synthetic opioids, like Fentanyl. In its mission to decrease the number of overdose deaths caused by the contamination of the illicit drug supply with fentanyl, Overdose Lifeline is able to supply Fentanyl test strips to Indiana residents. These are a simple tool that can test a drug supply for Fentanyl and its analogs to prevent a drug overdose.
This makes evidence-based harm reduction strategies such as fentanyl test strips, safety planning, and access to safe supply more vital than ever. Fentanyl test strips (FTS) can detect the presence of fentanyl in both opioids and non-opioids. We offer free fentanyl test strip kits, as well as informational resources, to encourage safer use practices and prevent overdose deaths.
Bunk Police kits are intended for identifying unknown substances for harm reduction purposes only. Directions are very easy to understand and the tests work better than the older blue strips. I had a false positive on an older test trip, retested with a new one and it was negative. It doesn’t harm a person to use Narcan if one is unsure what substances have caused the overdose, but it is only effective for opioid based substances. This material provides steps to take if a person has an opioid overdose and their breathing has slowed or stop.
Why Use Fentanyl Test Strips?
Inpatient programs also offer treatment in the form of therapy, medication, and support groups that can help promote healthy coping skills to support sobriety after leaving. 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.
Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, and its presence in illicit drugs often goes undetected. Using fentanyl test strips can help individuals make informed choices about the substances they are using. Here are some benefits:
But there are more than 60 community programs in California and many provide fentanyl testing strips for free. Local Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs or OOPPs connect New Yorkers with naloxone, naloxone training, fentanyl test strips, and safe syringe access and disposal services. Fentanyl and xylazine are harmful additives that can increase the risk of overdose.
More than 90% of participants reported willingness to use rapid test strips regardless of having ever overdosed, suggesting that rapid fentanyl testing is an acceptable harm reduction intervention among young people who use drugs in Rhode Island. Study follow-up is ongoing to determine whether, how, and under what circumstances participants used the rapid test strips and if a positive result contributed to changes in overdose risk behavior. Test strips are legal in 36 states and the District of Columbia.
- Quick detection of fentanyl in drugs.
- Accessible for users in high-risk environments.
- Help reduce overdoses by informing users.
Where to Buy Fentanyl Test Strips
If you are looking to purchase fentanyl test strips, there are several options available:
1. Online Retailers
Fentanyl And Xylazine Test Strips
Many online platforms offer fentanyl test strips for purchase. Ensure that you select reputable vendors. Some widely known sites include:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Harm reduction-focused websites
2. Local Pharmacies
Some local pharmacies may stock fentanyl test strips. It’s advisable to call ahead and inquire about availability.
3. Harm Reduction Organizations
Many harm reduction organizations distribute fentanyl test strips for free or at a low cost. This often includes:
- Community health clinics
- Local drug user organizations
- Public health departments
4. Drug Treatment Centers
Facilities that focus on addiction treatment may also offer fentanyl test strips as part of their services. You can ask during intake or consult a staff member.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fentanyl Test Strips
Q1: How do fentanyl test strips work?
A: Fentanyl test strips work by detecting the presence of fentanyl and its analogs in a sample of drugs dissolved in water.
Q2: Are fentanyl test strips accurate?
A: They are generally accurate but can sometimes yield false negatives or positives. They are best used as a preliminary screening tool.
Q3: Can I use fentanyl test strips with any type of drug?
A: Yes, they can be used with a variety of drugs, but results may vary depending on the drug composition.
Q4: Are fentanyl test strips legal to buy?
A: In most places, fentanyl test strips are legal to buy, but it’s important to check the local laws in your area.
Conclusion
Knowing where to buy fentanyl test strips is essential for those at risk of opioid exposure. By utilizing these test strips, individuals can take proactive steps toward ensuring their safety and reducing the chances of overdose.
