ATLANTA, G.A, November 21, 2022 — Dedicated to offering critical sex-positive and harm-reduction resources to metro Atlanta, StopHIVATL is a non-profit organization that delivers educational content. As part of our educational resources, we provide a monthly newsletter to complement the range of content on our social media platforms.
With the recent wave of fentanyl-related overdoses in the city of Atlanta, StopHIVATL aims to provide substance users with tools and instructions to use substances safely. A way to achieve safer substance use is by using test strips to detect the presence of fentanyl in any given substance. With the tools necessary to detect the presence of fentanyl in substances, users can make informed decisions about their usage and potentially avoid a fentanyl-related overdose. Read below to learn how to use and obtain fentanyl test strips.
Where Can I Find Fentanyl Test Strips and Naxolone (Narcan) in Atlanta?
You can find fentanyl test strips by exploring the resources StopHIVATL offers in Fulton county and surrounding areas. Obtain free fentanyl test strips by simply filling out our test kit form. Additionally, fentanyl test strips are free in several health centers across Atlanta. They are available in health centers where folks can receive HIV resources, testing, pre-exposure preventative treatment (including PrEP), and post-exposure care options.
Additionally, you can also find local Narcan and training resources here. We are committed to reducing the risk of harm when using drugs, so those who enjoy Atlanta nightlife or struggle with substance abuse can mitigate harm through informed decisions.
What Your Test Kit Should Include
Once you receive your test kit, you should ensure all the kit’s contents are easily accessible and included. The test kit should contain the following:
- five individually wrapped fentanyl test strips
- five cotton swabs
- five test tubes
- five bottles of extraction liquid (do not consume extraction liquid)
- one test tube holder
- instructions and a product insert
A survey should also be included to collect demographic information if you so feel inclined.
How to Test Surfaces, Powders, and Solid Substances For Fentanyl
1: Place your test tube into the holder. Pour an entire bottle of extraction liquid into the test tube.
2: Dip a cotton swab into the test tube for three seconds to moisten the swab.
3: Wipe the moist tip of the cotton swab across the surface, powder, or solid substance. You do not need to use a large amount: a small amount will do.
4: Dip the side of the swab with substance residue into the test tube. Stir for one to two minutes for accurate results. You can discard the swab.
5: Submerge the testing strip into the tube for ten to fifteen seconds. Do not submerge the test strip past the max line noted on the strip since it may render the test invalid. Place the test strip horizontally on a flat surface.
6: Wait for five minutes and read the results. Do not read the results after 10 minutes.
How to Test Liquid Samples for Fentanyl
1: Place your test tube into the holder. Pour an entire bottle of extraction liquid into the test tube.
2: Add a drop of the liquid sample to the test tube.
3: Dip the swab handle into the test tube and stir the liquids for two minutes. Discard the swab.
4: Submerge the testing strip into the tube for ten to fifteen seconds. Do not submerge the test strip past the max line noted on the strip since it may render the test invalid. Place the test strip horizontally on a flat surface.
5: Wait for five minutes and read the results. Do not read the results after 10 minutes.
Reading Your Results
The backside of the fentanyl testing strip wrapper should provide simple instructions on how to read your test results.
Positive: One line – control line C (use at your own risk)
Negative: Two lines – control line C and test line T
Invalid: One line – test line T; or no lines at all (use at your own risk)
About StopHIVATL: StopHIVATL is an organization based on harm reduction and sex positivity, focusing on a range of topics promoting health engagement. They provide inclusive, zero-judgment information and resources on sexual health, drug user health, monkeypox, community events and more. The testing, prevention (PrEP), and treatment resources StopHIVATL refer to interested parties are always confidential, secure and accessible to those living in Fulton, Gwinnett, DeKalb, and Cobb Counties.
Want to learn more about StopHIVATL’s mission and services?
Visit www.stophivatl.org or send a message to [email protected].
