Harm Reduction Guide
Harm reduction focuses on minimizing negative consequences associated with drug use. This guide provides essential safety information, overdose prevention, and emergency procedures.
OVERDOSE PREVENTION & RESPONSE
IF SOMEONE IS OVERDOSING
- Call emergency services immediately (911 or local emergency number)
- Stay with the person until help arrives
- If unresponsive, check breathing and pulse
- If not breathing, begin CPR if trained
- If opioid overdose suspected, administer naloxone if available
- Place person in recovery position if breathing but unconscious
- Do not leave the person alone
- Provide accurate information to emergency responders
NALOXONE (NARCAN)
Naloxone can reverse opioid overdoses. It's available without prescription in many areas. Keep naloxone available if using opioids. Learn how to administer it properly.
EXTERNAL RESOURCES
DRUG TESTING
Testing substances before use can identify dangerous adulterants and verify contents. Many substances sold on darknet markets may be mislabeled or contain harmful additives.
TESTING METHODS
- Reagent testing: Color-changing tests for substance identification
- Fentanyl test strips: Detect fentanyl contamination
- Laboratory testing: Professional analysis services
- Start with small test doses when possible
EXTERNAL RESOURCES
OPIOIDS
SAFETY INFORMATION
- Start with extremely small doses
- Never use alone - have someone present
- Keep naloxone available
- Be aware of tolerance changes
- Avoid mixing with other depressants (alcohol, benzodiazepines)
- Test for fentanyl contamination
OVERDOSE SIGNS
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue or gray skin/lips
- Slow heart rate
STIMULANTS
SAFETY INFORMATION
- Stay hydrated but avoid overhydration
- Take regular breaks to rest
- Monitor body temperature
- Avoid mixing with other stimulants
- Be aware of cardiovascular effects
- Test substances for purity
OVERDOSE SIGNS
- Rapid heart rate or irregular heartbeat
- High body temperature
- Agitation or paranoia
- Seizures
- Chest pain
PSYCHEDELICS
SAFETY INFORMATION
- Use in safe, comfortable environment
- Have a sober sitter present
- Start with low doses
- Be aware of set and setting
- Avoid mixing with other substances
- Test substances for identification
RISK REDUCTION
- Research substance effects and duration
- Prepare safe environment beforehand
- Have emergency contact available
- Be aware of potential for psychological distress
- Allow time between uses for integration
BENZODIAZEPINES
SAFETY INFORMATION
- Start with low doses
- Never mix with alcohol or opioids
- Be aware of blackout potential
- Avoid operating vehicles or machinery
- Be cautious of dependence potential
- Test substances for identification
RISKS
- Respiratory depression when combined with other depressants
- Memory impairment and blackouts
- Physical and psychological dependence
- Dangerous withdrawal symptoms
CANNABIS
SAFETY INFORMATION
- Start with low doses, especially with edibles
- Be aware of delayed onset with edibles
- Avoid mixing with alcohol
- Use in safe environment
- Be aware of potency variations
GENERAL HARM REDUCTION PRINCIPLES
BEST PRACTICES
- Test substances before use when possible
- Start with small doses
- Never use alone
- Stay hydrated appropriately
- Be aware of interactions between substances
- Know emergency procedures
- Keep naloxone available if using opioids
- Research substances before use
- Use in safe environments
- Have emergency contacts available