Heroin-Safer Use Practices
What is Heroin?
Heroin is an opioid that produces intense euphoria and pain relief but carries high risks of addiction, overdose, and physical harm. Following harm reduction practices is essential to minimize these risks and promote safety.
Safer Use Practices
1. Test Your Heroin for Adulterants
Heroin is frequently adulterated with harmful substances, including fentanyl, which greatly increases overdose risks. Use fentanyl test strips or reagent testing kits to check for contaminants before use.
Learn About Testing on PsychonautWiki
2. Start Low, Go Slow
Heroin’s potency can vary greatly, especially when mixed with unknown substances. Start with a small dose and wait to assess its effects before using more.
3. Use Clean Equipment
Always use clean needles and syringes to avoid infections, abscesses, and transmission of diseases like HIV and hepatitis. Dispose of used equipment safely at designated sharps disposal sites.
Read About Safer Injection Practices
4. Don’t Use Alone
Using heroin alone increases the risk of fatal overdose. If possible, use with someone who can respond in an emergency or use services like Never Use Alone to have someone monitor your use remotely.
5. Carry Naloxone (Narcan)
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. Ensure you and those around you know how to use it. Keep it readily accessible whenever using heroin.
Learn About Naloxone on PsychonautWiki
6. Avoid Mixing Substances
Mixing heroin with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other depressants significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and overdose.
7. Take Care of Your Veins
Rotate injection sites to prevent vein damage and avoid injecting into risky areas like the neck or groin. Use sterile water and avoid reusing or sharing equipment.
Why Harm Reduction Matters
Heroin use carries severe risks, but harm reduction strategies like testing, safe injection practices, and naloxone access can save lives and reduce harm. By staying informed and prepared, individuals can use heroin more safely.
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For more detailed harm reduction strategies and information about heroin, visit: