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- Title
Unmet needs and harm reduction preferences of syringe services program participants: differences by co-use of illicit opioids and methamphetamine.
- Authors
Sun, Rachel; Sauda, Tonazzina H.; Hoopsick, Rachel A.
- Abstract
Background: The current fourth wave of the United States opioid overdose epidemic is characterized by the co-use of opioids and stimulants, including illicit opioids and methamphetamine. The co-use of these two drugs, known as "goofballing," is associated with higher risk for several adverse outcomes, including more frequent injections, greater health risks, and higher morbidity. Considering these differences, this unique subpopulation of people who inject drugs (PWID) may also have unique unmet needs and harm reduction preferences. Methods: We collected self-reported data from participants (N = 50) of a syringe services program (SSP), including basic needs and harm reduction preferences. Using bivariate analyses, we examined differences between SSP participants who do and do not co-use illicit opioids and methamphetamine. Co-use was defined as reporting the use of both drugs, which may or may not have been used simultaneously. Results: In the overall sample, the mean level of need was highest for bus passes or other transportation, a person who can help you get the services you need, medication for opioid use disorder, and a job or job training. Additionally, all participants reported being either interested or very interested in fentanyl test strips, safe consumption sites, delivery of syringe service supplies, and delivery of naloxone. Those who endorsed co-use had a greater need for food, healthcare, substance use disorder treatment, a support person to help them access needed services, and bus passes or transportation. Conclusions: Unmet needs were prevalent, and the desire for more harm reduction services was high among these PWID. Results also suggest people who co-use illicit opioids and methamphetamine may have the greatest unmet needs and desire for additional harm reduction services.
- Subjects
UNITED States; HARM reduction; SAFE injection sites (Community health services); METHAMPHETAMINE; OPIOID abuse; OPIOIDS; NEEDLE exchange programs; DRUG abuse treatment
- Publication
Harm Reduction Journal, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 1, p1
- ISSN
1477-7517
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1186/s12954-024-01038-2