F.A.Q.

Does Syringe exchange increase drug use?

No. Research has demonstrated that syringe exchange does not affect the amount of substances people use. On the contrary, folks with access to syringe exchange are more likely to access treatment, reduce harm to themselves through substance use, and access support systems that reduce their risk for HIV & Hep C.

Who accesses syringe exchange?

People who use drugs intravenously (through their veins) need access to sterile syringes. Also, transgender folks who do not have financial or structural access to prescription hormones and therefore acquire hormones without a prescription also need access to sterile, non-prescription syringes.

Does syringe exchange increase the number of dirty syringes in our community?

NO. Syringe exchange provides accessible means to individuals to dispose of syringes in safe ways. Decriminalizing syringe exchange allows people to dispose of dirty syringes safely, instead of hiding them, throwing them in dumpsters, or leaving them in alleys.

Why should I care about syringe exchange?

Without current access to legalized syringe exchange, folks who use drugs intravenously are at an increased risk for HIV and Hep C infection from the use of shared and dirty syringes. Members of our community are infected with HIV and Hep C needlessly because of the current criminalization of syringe exchange. Legalized syringe exchange would reduce rates of HIV and Hep C infection, keep our communities free of inappropriately disposed syringes, and increase support and treatment options for current users.