Read on for more information on needle exchange programs, how to access them, and where to find support for substance abuse.
How Do Needle Exchange Programs Work?
People in need of needle exchange can go to an NEP location and pick up sterile syringes. Locations may be physical storefronts, but others are mobile, such as distributing from a van or the supply bag of NEP outreach workers.
Many programs allow you to take as many supplies as you need, without restrictions or requirements, after returning used syringes.
Safer use supplies, information, and services may also be available to reduce disease risk and harm related to injecting drugs. Program staff or caseworkers may be able to talk you through what is available and make referrals for care.
What Is the Purpose of Needle Exchange Programs?
Reducing disease risk is a primary aim of needle exchange programs.
People new to injecting drugs utilizing a NEP were five times more likely to enter a substance abuse program and three times more likely to stop using drugs than those who didn’t access a NEP. The use of the programs’ services was associated with a 50% reduction in HIV and hepatitis C infections. In a study comparing a city with NEPs vs. a city without, the risk of people disposing of used needles improperly was eight times higher in the city without NEPs. NEPs do not increase drug use or crime.
Sharing used needles that may be contaminated with infected blood can contribute to the transmission of infections from one person to another, including HIV and hepatitis. In fact, 1 in 10 people who inject drugs is diagnosed with HIV.
Safe use supplies (including sterile cookers and tourniquets), safer sex materials (such as condoms), and first aid items for wound care are typically made available to further reduce disease risk.
NEPs also provide links to substance use treatment for people who want to quit.
Services
NEPs may provide a range of services and resources based on community needs, such as:
Provide clean syringes and sterile supplies for injection drug use Collect used syringes Screening for infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and viral hepatitis Safer sex information and supplies Vaccinations Wound care Naloxone and training on how to use it to prevent overdose death Referrals to substance abuse programs and other mental or medical health resources
Benefits
There are a number of benefits of NEP services, including:
Reduction in HIV and hepatitis infections among PWIDCost-effective way to prevent and address HIV outbreaksIncreased likelihood of PWID to reduce, stop, or seek treatment for substance abuseReduction of syringe litter in communities
Who Has Access to Needle Exchange Programs?
People who inject drugs reap the most benefit from accessing NEPs. However, NEPs are not legal in all states. As of this writing, 39 states allow or locally permit NEPs.
Drug useViolenceSyringe waste
Harm reduction strategies are rooted in supporting anyone who may need them. Others may seek out services at NEPs, such as people who:
Use any type of syringe for prescribed or non-prescription medicineWant to learn about and access naloxoneAre family and friends of those who inject drugsEngage in high-risk behaviors, such as sex workersWant safer sex information, supplies, or STI testing
How to Find Substance Abuse Treatment Near You
A number of resources can help you find local treatment, including:
North American Syringe Exchange Program maintains an extensive listing of NEPs throughout the country National Harm Reduction Coalition offers information about where people can access naloxone
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAHMSA) has a Substance Use Treatment Locator and Opioid Treatment Directory. U. S. Department of Health and Human Services FindTreatment. gov has information about substance abuse and lists treatment resources Local health departments may also have substance abuse management services or provide referrals for care
Summary
Needle exchange programs reduce the risk of disease associated with injection drug use and link people with substance abuse treatment. Services include providing sterile syringes, collecting used syringes, and referrals to treatment. NEPs are legal in many states, but not all.
The programs are safe and effective at reducing rates of HIV and hepatitis among PWID, reducing syringe waste, and increasing the likelihood that participants reduce or quit using or seek out treatment for substance abuse. People seeking supplies and information about overdose prevention and safer sex may also use the programs.
A Word From Verywell
Because there is stigma around substance use and laws governing NEPs, it can be hard to navigate available services. These programs provide harm reduction services without judgment to address the needs of people who inject drugs. They aim to meet people where they are to reduce the risk associated with injection drug use and support if and when a person who uses is ready to make a change. Whether you use injectable drugs or are supporting a loved one who does, these programs can provide safe and effective resources.
