IV Drug Use
Using IV drugs, especially when you're sharing needles, can be especially risky. Here are some risks of IV drugs and sharing needles:
Skin infections and abscesses
Blood infections from improperly cleaning the injection site before use
Infections of the heart and lungs
Blood-borne diseases such as HIV or hepatitis
The best way to reduce these risks is to stop using IV drugs. If that's not possible for you right now, making sure that you consistently use a clean needle will reduce your chances of getting some diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV. California does have several options to help you dispose of your used needles and get clean ones:
Syringe exchange programs (SEPs, also known as syringe services programs)
For a complete list of programs, visit https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DOA/Pages/OA_prev_sepdirectory.aspx
Nonprescription syringe sale in pharmacies
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