Did you know that something as simple as a sterile syringe can save lives? The vital role of harm reduction equipment in reducing the health risks associated with high-risk drug use, is explored today in a new EUDA miniguide. The resource forms part of the agency’s Health and social responses to drug problems: a European guide and is the second in a bundle of miniguides dedicated to drug-related interventions (1).
Harm reduction equipment is designed to minimise a range of drug-related risks, by allowing the hygienic preparation of illicit drugs and reducing the risks of their administration. Provision of harm reduction materials, adapted to local needs, allows people who use drugs to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading blood-borne infections and to lower their likelihood of experiencing injection-related injury and fatal overdose.
In recent years, harm reduction materials have developed to reflect new drug-related trends and patterns of use. Equipment today can be loosely grouped into three categories associated with: drug preparation (e.g. filters, cookers), drug administration (e.g. sterile needles, syringes) and client care and prevention interventions (e.g. fentanyl test strips, wound care and naloxone kits).
Availability of harm reduction tools is typically ensured through integrated harm reduction services (e.g. low-threshold services), fixed sites (e.g. shelters, prisons) or through tailored delivery models, such as mobile units, pharmacies, peer-based outreach sites and vending machines. Accompanying guidance on the safe use and disposal of materials is usually provided at the point of delivery.
While harm reduction measures are offered across the EU, their coverage and accessibility vary considerably by country. A lack of practical guidance on the provision of harm reduction equipment in many EU Member States, and at European level, complicates decision-making in the areas of policy and practice.
The miniguide stresses that expanding the provision of harm reduction equipment is a basic principle to be encouraged, and that service providers and people who use drugs should be involved in designing programmes and evaluation research. The guide also lists opportunities, such as making the most of mobile apps and digital tools, to extend the reach and effectiveness of harm reduction interventions.
Although strong evidence exists for the effectiveness of needle and syringe and take-home naloxone programmes, broader research on harm reduction equipment provision is limited. Nevertheless, observational studies suggest that such provision can be a valuable contact point for broader engagement, including access to treatment and social reintegration measures.
