What is harm reduction?

Harm Reduction

Harm reduction focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of substance use for those who continue to use. This evidence-based approach provides life-saving tools and practical support to create positive change.

Naloxone

Naloxone (also known as Narcan or ZIMHI) is a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses, including those from heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioids. It comes in easy-to-use forms: nasal spray and injectable. With nearly 50,000 opioid overdose deaths in 2019, bystanders—present in over a third of cases—can help save lives by carrying and administering naloxone.

Source: CDC.

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Peer Support

Harm reduction services can also increase the number of opportunities that peers and/or service providers have with individuals who use substances. This can include connecting individuals with overdose education, counseling, and referral to treatment for infectious diseases and substance use disorders.

Needle/Syringe Distribution

Syringe Service Programs are essential community initiatives designed to prevent the spread of disease and safeguard public health. These programs not only save lives but also offer crucial support to individuals with substance use disorders, help avert overdose fatalities, and minimize the broader impact of drug use on communities.

Colorado law "states that an agency, including a local public health agency, may request approval from its board of health to establish a syringe exchange program operated by the agency or by a nonprofit organization with which the agency contracts."

Participants, volunteers, and staff are exempt from the provisions of paraphernalia laws when they are associated with approved syringe exchange program created according to this law.

Colorado law also allows for an exception to arrest and filing charges for the crime of possession of syringes for substance use if the person, before being searched by a law enforcement officer, informs the officer that they have a needle, syringe, or other sharp object on their person or in their vehicle or home that is subject to a search.

Source: CDPHE, CDC

Wound Care Supplies

Substance use can sometimes lead to accidental injuries or skin infections. Taking care of any wounds properly is crucial to avoid complications and promote healing. Supplies are accessible and commonly readily available at pharmacies, community health centers, and needle exchange programs.

Source: SAMHSA

Safe Sex Supplies

Harm reduction practices can also involve the distribution of safe sex and STI testing supplies. This can consist of distributing FDA-approved home testing kits for viral hepatitis (i.e. HBV and HCV) and HIV, providing education on HIV and viral hepatitis prevention, testing, and referrals to treatment services or vaccinations.

Source: SAMHSA

Overdose Prevention Education

Opioid overdoses are a leading cause of death in the U.S., with illegal fentanyl being a major contributor. Prevention strategies include improving opioid prescribing, reducing exposure, preventing misuse, and treating opioid use disorder (OUD). Acting early can prevent substance use disorders, and prevention efforts are vital to supporting individuals and communities in maintaining health.

Source: CDC

Good Samaritan Laws

The 911 Good Samaritan Law in Colorado protects people from criminal charges related to an overdose if they report the emergency, stay at the scene until help arrives, and cooperate with responders. This protection also covers the person who overdosed, but there are limits based on the amount of substances involved.

Source: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment