What is a Needle Exchange Program?

The term ‘needle exchange program’ is a broad term we’ll use in this guide, but there are a number of different programs and services that would fall under the general umbrella of needle exchange programs. These programs may often be referred to as Syringe Services Programs (SSPs), Syringe Exchange Programs (SEPs), and Needle Exchange Programs (NEPs).

Simply put, IV drug users can bring used needles/syringes to designated locations and exchange them for clean, unused needles.

These programs are community-based, and some locations may offer additional services. The primary goals of needle exchange programs are:

—Provide Clean Needles to Drug Users: This practice can reduce the transmission of communicable diseases and harmful infections. A reduction in communicable diseases benefits everyone, even those who do not inject drugs. HIV, in particular, can be contracted via tainted needles AND sexual intercourse. Providing clean needles for IV drug users can have the downstream impact of reducing exposure of infectious diseases to non-drug users.

—Safe Disposal of Used Needles: Used needles that are not discarded safely pose a threat to the community and the environment. Needle exchange programs help reduce these dangers by ensuring that used needles are disposed of in accordance with local biohazard disposal laws.