Fentanyl-Safer Use Practices
Featured Content: Fentanyl – Safer Use Practices
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, often used medically for pain relief but increasingly found as an adulterant in illicit substances. It is up to 50-100 times more potent than morphine, making accidental overdoses a significant risk. Harm reduction practices are critical for reducing these risks and promoting safety.
Safer Use Practices
1. Test Your Substances for Fentanyl
Use fentanyl test strips to check powders, pills, or liquids for the presence of fentanyl. Testing substances before use can save lives.
Learn About Testing on PsychonautWiki
2. Start Low, Go Slow
Due to its potency, even small amounts of fentanyl can be fatal. Start with an extremely small dose and wait to assess its effects before taking more.
3. Never Use Alone
Fentanyl overdoses can happen quickly, often within minutes. Always have someone present who can respond in case of an emergency, or use a service like Never Use Alone.
4. Carry Naloxone (Narcan)
Naloxone reverses opioid overdoses and can save lives when administered promptly. Keep it accessible and ensure you and those around you know how to use it.
Learn About Naloxone on PsychonautWiki
5. Avoid Mixing Substances
Combining fentanyl with other depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opioids increases the risk of respiratory depression and death.
6. Choose Lower-Risk Methods
If possible, avoid injecting fentanyl, as this method increases the risk of overdose. Smoking or insufflation (snorting) poses a lower but still significant risk.
7. Space Out Use and Seek Support
Frequent use can lead to physical dependence, tolerance, and a heightened risk of overdose. Seek support for dependence and allow time between uses to minimize risks.
Why Harm Reduction Matters
Fentanyl’s high potency and presence in adulterated substances make it one of the most dangerous drugs in circulation. By testing substances, carrying naloxone, and practicing safer use, you can reduce the risks and save lives.
Learn More:
For more detailed harm reduction strategies and information about fentanyl, visit: