People who inject drugs can cause themselves harm from the injecting process. You’re less likely to cause harm if you are using the right equipment and disposing of it safely after each use.
Pharmacies who offer a needle exchange service can give you free injecting equipment, to make sure that if you are injecting, you’re doing so safely. Depending on the area in which you live, you could get different sizes of syringes and needles, citric acid and filters.
Equipment may come in a ready-made pack, or sometimes you can ask for exactly what you need. You will be expected to return used needles back to the pharmacy in the container provided to you.
The pharmacist will also be able to talk to you about how you can reduce the risk of harm when injecting.
This service reduces the risk of you catching infections, such as HIV and Hepatitis B & C, provides you with information on how to inject more safely, and keeps the community safe by encouraging you to return used needles.