This EUDA miniguide provides an overview of key issues related to the provision of harm reduction equipment for high-risk drug use, including service delivery, guidance and evidence, and considerations for implementation. It also considers implications for policy and practice.

In a nutshell
What is harm reduction equipment? 
Harm reduction equipment refers to a range of items that help to prevent harms related to drug use by allowing the hygienic preparation and administration of illicit drugs. Items include sterile needles, syringes, filters and pipes.

Why is the equipment provided? 
Equipment is provided to reduce a range of risks and harms associated with high-risk drug use, including:

• risk of contracting or transmitting blood-borne viruses and other diseases
• risk of injection-related injury such as skin and soft tissue infections
• risk of overdose.

Who is the target population? 
The target population is:

• people who use drugs and engage in risky drug use behaviours
• people who use drugs and have limited or no access to hygienic equipment for injection, smoking or inhalation.
• How is equipment distributed?

Distribution is generally through integrated harm reduction programmes, usually low-threshold services. It is seldom a standalone intervention.

Alongside the distribution of equipment, guidance is usually provided on the appropriate use of the items, how to safely dispose of them after use and options for transition to less risky routes of administration.