
FENTANYL TEST STRIPS
Fentanyl test strips are used to test the presence of fentanyl in substances that can be dissolved in water (crushed pills, powders, crushed crystals, paper-based psychedelics)
Limitations of test strips
Test strips only tell you whether fentanyl is present, and cannot tell you the total amount present (concentration), or how strong it might be (potency).
Because of the way fentanyl clumps together, it can be unevenly mixed. A negative test doesn’t guarantee the absence of fentanyl.
Newer fentanyl analogs may not always be detected.
How to use Fentanyl Test Strips
Testing strips test for the presence of fentanyl, but not the amount of fentanyl in the tested sample. Additionally, not all strips are consistent in their sensitivity and their ability to test for drugs similar to fentanyl, or even all of the types of fentanyl, that may also be in your drugs. Always use carefully, never use alone, and make sure you have naloxone around.
Most kits follow some variation of the below steps, with instructions varying by the substance you intend to test. Please always refer to the instructions that come with your specific testing kit.
1. Fill a small container with at least 15mL of water
2. Fully dissolve a small amount of the substance you want to test (powder, crushed pill, etc) in the water.

3. Hold the blue end of the strip, usually labeled FYL, and dip it into the water. Do not dip past the thick line labeled “MAX.”

4. Wait 10-15 seconds, or until the water reaches the white part of the strip.

5. Take the strip out of the water and wait two minutes until lines appear in the middle of the test strip.
6. Check the test results. One line means the substance has fentanyl in it. No substances are 100% safe.
Where to get test strips
- Local and National Organizations: Check with your local harm reduction agency or health department. They may provide fentanyl test strips for free or at a reduced cost. Additionally, check the North American Syringe Exchange Network for an opportunity in your area or NEXT Distro.
- Online and Retail Stores: Many brands of affordable fentanyl test strips are available for purchase online and at major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Please note fentanyl test strips are considered drug paraphernalia in some states. Please check the legal status in your area.

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