Naloxone Distribution and Overdose Prevention
Knowledge of Use of Xylazine Test Strips
Current Value
80#
Definition
Xylazine test strips are an overdose prevention tool which alerts to the presence of xylazine in a sample. Training on how to use and interpret results is critical in making informed decisions. Participants receiving xylazine test strips are provided instruction on how to use and next steps. To ensure understanding, participants are asked to describe how to use xylazine test strips.
Story Behind the Curve
As the presence of fentanyl in the drug supply has been identifed broadly across the United States, fentanyl test strip distribution & training on use is vital to reducing overdose deaths. The presence of fentanyl and xylazine identified in numerous samples of drugs tested from Randolph County by the UNC Street Drug Analysis Lab indicates a greater risk of overdose if using. Additionally, people who use drugs may be unaware of local overdose prevention programs that provide tools to reduce risk.
Partners
Health care providers, behavioral health providers, community based organizations, faith-based organizations, human service providers
What Works
Effective strategies to reduce the risk of overdose deaths include:
- Provide overdose prevention education (e.g., never use alone, go slow)
- Provide overdose prevention tools to identify presence of fentanyl or xylazine in drug supply (e.g., fentanyl test strips, xylazine test strips)
- Offering drug testing in partnership with UNC Street Drug Analysis Lab
Action Plan
There is no data to be collected at this time. As part of action plans, community partners intend to report this data for FY2023-24.
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