OHIO — The state of Ohio has distributed one million fentanyl testing strips as part of efforts to fight the ongoing opioid crisis, according to a press release from the governor’s office.

“By providing access to fentanyl test strips, we empower individuals to make informed decisions and potentially avert tragic consequences associated with opioid use," Gov. Mike DeWine said in the release.

These strips are able to test substances for fentanyl, “a potent synthetic opioid that has been increasingly found laced in various street drugs, contributing significantly to overdose fatalities.”

The release states that overdose deaths in Ohio saw a 5% decrease in 2022, despite a 1% increase nationally, with fentanyl involved with 81% of such cases.

A number of state agencies and organizations have been working in conjunction for the last year to distribute these testing strips, also working with local organizations.

The release cites that the Ohio Department of Health-coordinated Project DAWN, which stands for deaths avoided with Naloxone, had ordered 795,300 testing strips by the end of 2023 and distributed 292,419 Naloxone units.

“This landmark distribution of fentanyl test strips aligns with Ohio's broader initiative that includes providing wide access to the life-saving drug Naloxone,” the release reads. “Naloxone, when administered during an opioid overdose (from heroin, fentanyl, or prescription pain medications), blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and quickly restores breathing.”

Free doses of Naloxone are in cabinets at 48 college/university campuses and 65 rest areas throughout Ohio. Naloxone and fentanyl test strips, according to the release, can also be ordered for free online here, and more information about resources can be found here.