Safer Use Practices
Empowering Individuals with Knowledge and Tools
Welcome to the Safer Use Practices Hub, a comprehensive resource for harm reduction strategies tailored to specific substances. At High Hopes Harm Reduction, we believe that informed decisions save lives. This hub is designed to provide practical, evidence-based guidance to minimize risks and promote safety for individuals who choose to use substances.
Why Safer Use Practices Matter
Harm reduction strategies are not about encouraging substance use—they’re about meeting people where they are and empowering them with tools and information to stay safe. Safer use practices help reduce the risk of overdose, long-term health complications, and harm to individuals and communities.
Explore Safer Use Guides by Substance
Opioids
• Fentanyl Safer Use Practices
Learn how to test for fentanyl, carry naloxone, and use opioids safely to reduce overdose risks.
• Heroin Safer Use Practices
Access tips on safe injection practices, testing for adulterants, and overdose prevention.
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Stimulants
• Cocaine Safer Use Practices
Discover safer snorting methods, testing for contaminants, and reducing cardiovascular risks.
• Methamphetamine Safer Use Practices
Guidance on safer use methods, spacing out use, and managing stimulant-induced dehydration.
Hallucinogens
• LSD Safer Use Practices
Learn how to test your substances, manage emotional intensity, and create the ideal “set and setting.”
• MDMA Safer Use Practices
Access tips on dosing, hydration, and testing for purity to enjoy a safer experience.
Dissociatives
• Ketamine Safer Use Practices
Find harm reduction strategies for testing, dosing, and avoiding dependence with ketamine.
What’s Included in Each Guide?
Each substance-specific guide provides:
• Testing Guidance: Information on using reagent kits or test strips to check for contaminants.
• Dosing Recommendations: Practical advice on starting doses and avoiding overuse.
• Safe Administration Methods: Tips for reducing harm based on how the substance is consumed.
• Emergency Preparedness: Overdose prevention tips, including how to use naloxone or seek help.
• Self-Care Strategies: Advice on hydration, nutrition, and recovery.
General Harm Reduction Tips
For all substances, the following harm reduction strategies apply:
1. Test Your Substances: Use test kits or strips to identify adulterants like fentanyl or NBOMe.
2. Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a small dose and wait to gauge effects.
3. Avoid Mixing Substances: Combining drugs increases the risk of adverse reactions.
4. Don’t Use Alone: Have someone present who can assist in case of an emergency.
5. Carry Naloxone: This life-saving medication can reverse opioid overdoses.
6. Practice Safer Methods: Use clean equipment, and never share needles or other tools.
7. Allow Recovery Time: Space out use to reduce tolerance and give your body time to recover.
Get Started
Choose a substance-specific guide to learn more about safer use practices:
Opioids | Stimulants | Hallucinogens | Dissociatives
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