PUBLIC SAFETY ALERT: Fentanyl Found In Recreational Drugs

CDPH Issues Recommendations for Drug Overdose Response: Naloxone Distribution, Prevention Education, and Equitable Treatment Access.

Entheology Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to entheogenic harm reduction, has issued a public safety alert regarding the increasing prevalence of fentanyl laced substances in the illicit drug market. If you do a bump, you should carry Naloxone Spray (Narcan).

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a statement on drug overdose response, providing recommendations to various partner types. The recommendations include increasing the distribution of naloxone, promoting overdose prevention education, expanding equitable access to treatment for substance use disorders, and intervening early with individuals at the highest risk for overdose.

Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is being mixed with drugs without the knowledge of the user, posing a significant risk of overdose and death. The alert advises people who use drugs to utilize drug testing services, carry naloxone for overdose reversal, practice harm reduction strategies, and stay informed about local drug trends. Fentanyl-laced drugs pose a significant risk of overdose and death due to the high potency of fentanyl. Even a small amount of fentanyl can have lethal effects. It is crucial for individuals who use illicit drugs to be aware of this potential danger and take necessary precautions.

The statement emphasizes the importance of naloxone distribution, public awareness campaigns, prevention policies, and strategies, as well as promoting treatment and access to resources for substance use disorders. The CDPH aims to address the opioid crisis and reduce overdose-related deaths through these comprehensive approaches.

Here are some key recommendations to ensure safety:

1. Drug Testing: Entheology Project is in the process of manufacturing more reliable color-changing testing ampules that develop when UV light is added. The new technology can detect as low as 15 micrograms of fentanyl which means you don’t need much of a sample. Test strips are often inconsistent in results when it comes to powdery substances.

2. Naloxone Distribution: Naloxone is a life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, including fentanyl overdoses. It is crucial to carry naloxone at all times. In California, you can access free naloxone kits through various channels:

– Apply to the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to receive free naloxone kits. Visit the DHCS website for more information.
– Local organizations, such as harm reduction agencies and opioid or overdose safety coalitions, often have naloxone distribution programs. Contact these organizations to inquire about obtaining free naloxone. Entheology Project currently has a Naloxone Standing Order to begin freely distributing naloxone to the public by the end of July 2023.

3. Harm Reduction Strategies: Practice harm reduction techniques avoiding substances produced overseas, use reputable facilitators, use with a trusted partner who can assist with naloxone in case of an emergency, and seeking support from harm reduction organizations for education and resources.

4. Stay Informed: Stay updated on local drug trends and alerts from reputable sources. Being aware of the current situation regarding fentanyl contamination can help you make informed decisions about drug use.

Remember, the safest approach is to avoid using substances from unknown origins altogether. However, if you choose to use, prioritize your safety by following these guidelines and seeking support from harm reduction organizations and resources.

ALSO READ: Understanding the Limitations of Fentanyl Test Strips: Promoting Awareness and Solutions.

For more information and resources, visit Entheology Project’s website or email our team.

Sources :
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/sapb/Pages/People-Who-Use-Drugs.aspx
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/sapb/Pages/Drug-Overdose-Response.aspx
https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/opioids/fentanyl.html
https://www.dea.gov/fentanyl
https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/fentanyl
https://harmreduction.org/issues/fentanyl/
https://www.samhsa.gov/fentanyl

Disclaimer: The Entheology Project does not endorse or promote illicit drug use. This alert is aimed at providing harm reduction information and raising awareness about the potential dangers of fentanyl-laced substances.