How to Use Fentantyl Test Strips - From Steve Rummler Hope Network

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Hello, my name is Maddie, and my name is Ali, and we're with the Steve Rumler Hope Network. Today, we're going to be demonstrating how to use fentanyl test strips. These strips can be used to detect the presence of fentanyl and some other common synthetic opioids.

Fentanyl is a very strong opioid and can be 50 times more potent than heroin. As a result, there's a much higher risk of overdose, especially if somebody doesn't know they're at risk of exposure. Because of this, fentanyl test strips are an important public health tool for overdose prevention.

In recent years, fentanyl has become much more commonly used to lace other drugs, including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, benzodiazepines like Xanax, and even vape products. It's also frequently pressed into pills and sold as off-market medications. With the risk of exposure being so high, it's important for people to test their supply for fentanyl and to always practice safer use strategies regardless of their test results.

Fentanyl test strips have three basic areas: the dark blue section where you hold your strip while testing, the middle section that displays test results with red lines, and the bottom part, the test area, marked with blue lines and arrows, which is dipped into the sample.

When preparing a sample for testing, it's important to remember that fentanyl can clump together and be unevenly distributed. This is known as the chocolate chip cookie effect. Results will always be the most accurate if you fully prepare and dissolve the entire amount you intend to use in water before testing.

There are three methods of preparing a sample for testing:

1. **Fully Dissolved Sample**: This is the most accurate method. Mix the substance with water until fully dissolved.

2. **Representative Sample**: While not the best option, some people opt for this method. Take a sample and mix it with water to test.

3. **Residue Testing**: This method is the least effective and not recommended. Add water to the baggie containing the residue and swish it around.

After preparing the sample, dip the fentanyl test strip into the liquid up to the blue test line for 15 seconds. Allow the liquid to soak up to the result area, then wait about two minutes for the result lines to appear.

Interpretation of the test results: - If only the upper line appears, the sample has tested positive for fentanyl. - If both upper and lower lines appear, the sample has tested negative for fentanyl. - If no lines or only the lower line appear, the test is invalid, and you should retest using a new strip.

It's essential to remember that no test is 100% accurate, and no drug is 100% safe. Always proceed with caution and have safer use strategies in place, including using clean needles, not using alone, and having naloxone on hand.

For more information about fentanyl test strips and available treatment resources, please visit rumlerhope.org.

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