Advice for safer injecting
Injecting drugs comes with serious risks, and the safest option is to avoid injecting altogether. But if you are injecting, there are ways to reduce harm and look after your health - this guide will help you stay as safe as possible.
Injecting drugs carries higher risks - from infections and vein damage to overdose and long-term health problems. That’s why we always recommend not injecting if you can avoid it. But we also know that everyone deserves to stay safe and informed, whatever stage they are at in their journey.
This article shares practical harm reduction tips for anyone who injects. You’ll find guidance on using clean equipment, choosing the right injection site, and taking steps to protect yourself and others. We aim to help you reduce the risks, stay healthy, and know where to get support when you’re ready.
What are the risks of injecting drugs?
Injecting drugs is one of the most dangerous ways to use them. While harm reduction can make injecting safer. It can never make it safe.
Injecting drugs increases risks of:
- Infections like hep B, hep C, and HIV
- Abscesses, sepsis, or other bacterial infections
- Collapsed veins, scarring, and blood clots
- Overdose
- Tissue damage
- Hitting an artery
Harm reduction when injecting
If you are injecting, there are steps you can take to lower the risks and protect your health. Small changes in how you prepare and inject can make a big difference.
Infected wounds and when to get help
To care for your wound, clean the area gently and apply a sterile plaster or dressing. Try to leave it covered for at least 8 days unless the dressing leaks, gets dirty or has fallen off.
Infections can develop quickly after injecting, and even small wounds can become serious if they’re not treated early, so it’s important to know what to look out for and when to seek help.
Signs of infection include:
- Redness, swelling, or warmth around the area
- Pain or tenderness that gets worse instead of better
- Pus, bleeding, or a bad smell
- Hard lumps under the skin
- Fever, chills, or generally feeling unwell
If you notice any of these symptoms, get medical advice as soon as possible.
Don’t try to drain or pop an abscess yourself. This can push the infection deeper and make it worse. Instead, keep the area clean and covered with a sterile dressing, and seek medical care.
Getting support
Whether you want help to inject more safely, cut down, or stop completely, we’re here to support you - without judgment.
Drop in to speak to one of our team members, pick up clean equipment, or get advice that works for where you’re at right now. Your safety matters, and support is always here when you’re ready.
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