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Safer injection action update

January 05 2018
A few tips on safer injecting – and a few alternatives

Alternatives

Always weigh up the pros and cons of injecting – is it worth it? Can you use the drug without injecting? Like sniffing/snorting, smoking or anal insertion?

 

Overdose

If someone...
• is unconscious for 3 minutes
• is breathing erratically
• is starting to turn blue
...then assume they are overdosing.

Dial 999 straight away!

Remember: Don't Panic! – stay calm! Remember your A, B, C: A is for Airway; B is for Breathe; C is for Circulation.

 

Safer injection tips

Always use a clean needle. Try not to inject when alone. Remember, wash your hands first when you're injecting. Don't lick the needle – bacteria from your mouth can get on to it. Do it yourself. Take your time – rushing can mean you make a mistake. If it is sore, take the needle out and start again. Do not swab or clean the area after injecting – just apply some pressure to stop any bleeding.

 

How to prevent vein damage

Repeatedly injecting into the same place does not give you an extra buzz – it causes vein damage, and increases the risk of a blood clot. It is often safer to take the drug a different way. Always inject in the direction of your heart. Try to use the same Works only once – repeated use can cause vein damage. Don't use too much Vitamin C or Citric Acid to dilute tablet or tar – this can cause damage. Never use lemon juice, vinegar or cold water as you can risk injecting fungus into your veins.

 

Needle / Works Exchange

Never share needles or Works with another drug user – not even your partner, boyfriend or girlfriend. Any pharmacy or health centre with this logo will offer you a free needle exchange. Ask them for syringe markers or ID labels to identify your own needles from other users.

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