Harm Reduction Issues
Safer Drug Use
We recognize that using drugs introduces risk – but there are ways to make it safer. People can reduce their risk of HIV, hepatitis C, overdose, and other drug-related harms by applying evidence-based harm reduction strategies around safer drug use.
We offer basic information about drug use and safer-use tips for people who use drugs and providers to get on the same page.
What is safer drug use (and why does it matter)?
Safer drug use is about lessening the risk of adverse outcomes from using drugs. There are many reasons someone may be using drugs – and there are other factors besides just drug use itself that can put people in harm’s way. This is why we provide resources to contextualize drug use, why people use drugs, and ways to make it safer depending on your situation.
These evidence-based harm reduction strategies are proven to reduce the risk of overdose and infections related to drug use.
Safer drug use means using safe supplies
Access to safe supplies and sterile syringes reduces the risk of contracting infectious diseases from injecting drugs.
Advanced Drug Checking Services
The more people know about their drug supply, the safer they can be. Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) have been saving lives through their drug checking work, moving beyond test strips to working with advanced equipment. NHRC, in collaboration with our partners at RTI International and the North American Syringe Exchange Network (NASEN), have published fact sheets in Spanish and English that focus on the experiences 23 SSPs have had implementing advanced drug checking services into their work. The fact sheets include information about how SSPs can administer these services, barriers and opportunities they face in the process, best practices tips, and more.
Learn more about the findings:
Safer drug use means being informed
No one knows what’s best for you better than you. Whatever drugs you use, we want you to be safe and healthy. Here are some guides we’ve put together to help you make safe choices.
Safer drug use means being prepared
If you use drugs, or know people who do, it’s important to be prepared in the event of an overdose. Know what to do if you’re with someone who is overdosing.