Understanding the Risks of Purchasing Fentanyl Online
Investigators tracked several shipments to individuals who sent money to the six online sellers. One of the people they tracked was a 49-year-old Ohio resident who sent about $2,500 over the course of a 10-month period. He died in early 2017 from “acute fentanyl intoxication,” just about 30 days after receiving the last of 15 packages through the Postal Service. Naloxone can reverse symptoms of fentanyl and other opioid poisoning. However, it doesn’t work every time, and the effects of the naloxone may not last as long as the opioid. And for fentanyl users receiving treatment for their addiction, doctors must prescribe higher doses of medications like suboxone and methadone to control their withdrawals.
There are a few varieties of fentanyl – injectable for using in the operating room and lollipops and patches. The latter two are used for pain management – patches for chronic pain and lollipops for those with severe pain, such as bone cancer with metastases. Fentanyl’s growth from its original design as an effective surgical pain management tool to a leading cause of overdose death and concern has happened quickly – with severe consequences. Cayla Clark grew up in Santa Barbara, CA and graduated from UCLA with a degree in playwriting. Since then she has been writing on addiction recovery and psychology full-time, and has found a home as part of the Guardian Recovery team.
“As they’re progressing to fentanyl, they’re gonna have to use it more often in order to manage that withdrawal.” “It’s nice to not have to use your veins or not inject, and so a lot of people would prefer not to be doing that,” Kral said. “I think we’re going to see more and more people smoking fentanyl than injecting it.” What’s more, experts said, people are increasingly moving from injecting fentanyl to smoking it. CSU’s Responsible Action Exemption provides protection for students who provide help in these scenarios, so there’s no reason to worry about getting in trouble.
While none of these individuals were formally affiliated with the UW, they were all part of our larger community, had potential, had loved ones and were cared about. Fentanyl is ending up in many different drugs, but many people aren’t aware, so they’re taking substances they’ve taken for years and unexpectedly overdosing. Kids, for example, might get a pill at a party, and it may look legitimate, but it’s not. Anyone can buy a press to make pills that look just like prescription drugs these days. Look for information on your state or local health department’s website or ask your healthcare provider for treatment and referral services available in your area. Since xylazine is not an opioid, naloxone and other opioid antagonists do not reverse xylazine’s effect on breathing in the event of an overdose.
The question, “can I buy fentanyl online?”, surfaces frequently due to the increasing appeal of online pharmacies. However, this inquiry raises serious concerns about legality, safety, and health risks.
The Reality of Purchasing Fentanyl
- In addition to distributing these supplies at pop-ups and community events listed on our events page, there are a few ways you can get naloxone and test strips to prevent a fatal overdose in your community.
- There can also be false positives (showing that fentanyl is present when it really isn’t).
- As fentanyl floods the illicit drug market, the price for a pill has dropped substantially in the past few years.
- Fentanyl Test Strips (FTS) are a tool to test drugs for the presence of fentanyl, a strong opioid.
- In some states test strips are legal only if they are acquired from harm reduction programs or syringe exchange programs.
Start with a very small dose every time you use something that could be contaminated with fentanyl. Because fentanyl is often mixed in with other substances in large batches, the amount present in a single pill or drug can vary widely. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), nearly half of all counterfeit pills tested contained a lethal dose of fentanyl. This figure is particularly alarming because it can be difficult to distinguish genuine pills from fake or counterfeit versions.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used medically to treat severe pain. Unfortunately, its high potency and the danger of overdose make it a drug associated with countless risks when obtained illegally.
Why Look for Fentanyl Online?
Explore our resource library for practical resources to promote the health and dignity of people affected by drug use. You’ll find up-to-date fact sheets, webinars, manuals, training guides, and more. People in the United States are dying from fentanyl at alarming rates. Getting the facts about fentanyl and sharing them widely is a good first step in addressing this community-wide crisis.
Fentanyl: Deadly Dope You Can Buy Online
” And then reiterate that if they find themselves coming across this — in their own life or within their friend group — they are available to talk with them and provide support. However, new concerns have come up regarding social media also becoming a way to sell and purchase drugs. And the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is advising parents about an alarming trend of colorful fentanyl pills being available for purchase online and in person. CSU’s inclusive community designed to provide support for students on all paths and in all phases of recovery including substance use disorders, eating disorders, as well as process and other mental health disorders.
Overdoses are now the leading cause of preventable death among people ages 18 to 45, ahead of suicide, traffic accidents and gun violence, according to federal data. Mr. Webb, a laid-back snowboarder and skateboarder who, with the imminent birth of his first child, had become despondent over his pandemic-dimmed finances, bought Percocet, a prescription opioid, through a dealer on Snapchat. Shortly after Kade Webb, 20, collapsed and died in a bathroom at a Safeway Market in Roseville, Calif., in December, the police opened his phone and went straight to his social media apps.
Some individuals may consider looking for fentanyl online due to:
- Convenience: Online purchasing may seem easier and quicker than traditional methods.
- Privacy: Some users may seek to bypass stigma or scrutiny from healthcare providers.
- Cost: Online prices may appear lower than local pharmacies.
Legal Considerations
It is crucial to understand the legal implications of buying fentanyl online. In many countries, purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal. Here’s why:
- Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S.
- Illegal sales could lead to criminal charges.
- Purchasing from unverified sources often results in counterfeit medications.
Risks of Online Purchases
Buying fentanyl from unauthorized online pharmacies poses numerous risks:
- Quality Control: Products may not meet safety standards, leading to dangerous impurities.
- Overdose Risk: Without proper dosing, individuals risk life-threatening consequences.
- Scams: Many websites are fraudulent, taking money without delivering any product.
Signs of a Legitimate Pharmacy
If you are considering purchasing medications online, ensure that the pharmacy is legitimate. Look for:
- A licensed pharmacist available for consultation.
- Verification by state or national pharmacy boards.
- Proper contact information, including a physical address.
Alternatives to Buying Fentanyl Online
If you are struggling with pain management or addiction, consider these alternatives:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Discussing your situation with a doctor can lead to safer and more effective treatments.
- Explore Approved Medications: There are many safer alternatives to fentanyl that can manage pain without the associated risks.
- Substance Abuse Programs: If addiction is a concern, seek help from rehabilitation programs for support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy fentanyl online legally?
No, purchasing fentanyl without a prescription is illegal in most jurisdictions.
What are the dangers of buying fentanyl online?
The dangers include receiving counterfeit drugs, experiencing overdose, and potential legal consequences.
What should I do if I’m in pain and can’t access medications?
Consult with a healthcare professional for safe alternatives and legitimate pain management options.
Conclusion
In summary, while the question “can I buy fentanyl online?” might seem straightforward, the implications are complex and fraught with serious risks. Prioritizing health and legality is paramount when seeking pain relief or other medications.
