The opioid epidemic is an ongoing public health crisis in the United States, and overdoses involving drugs that contain fentanyl are increasing at an alarming rate.  Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine.  It is a prescription drug used to treat patients who are in severe pain.  Synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, now are the most common substances involved in drug overdose deaths in the United States.

Rapid fentanyl test strips (FTS) are an emerging harm reduction method that may help inform people who use drugs about their risk of fentanyl exposure prior to consumption.  FTS detect the presence of fentanyl in illegal drugs and can be used in a private setting, which may encourage those who use drugs to be proactive in testing their supply.

Because of fentanyl’s potency, it is a dangerous additive that drug dealers often mix with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA.  Sellers may not disclose the fact that their product contains fentanyl; therefore, individuals taking these drugs may not be aware of the increased risk of overdose due to the presence of fentanyl.  Those who use an FTS and receive a positive test result may be more likely to change their drug use behavior – including not using the drug at all – than a person who is unaware that their drug is contaminated with fentanyl.

FTS are offered at Licking Memorial Urgent Care locations in Newark, Pataskala and Granville.  Individuals may visit an Urgent Care and ask for the strips at the front desk.  The test strips are provided with a contact number for Shepherd Hill, the treatment center associated with Licking Memorial Hospital.  Shepherd Hill offers a variety of services for individuals who are struggling with drug addiction.  For more information about addiction medicine services, contact (220) 564-HEAL (4325) or visit www.shepherdhill.net.