General recommendations for reducing risks and harms
Nine general harm reduction recommendations for people who use substances and/or take HIV treatment or HIV prevention medicines.
General recommendations for reducing risks and harms
Harm reduction recognises that people have the right to access reliable information to take care of their health and make informed decisions.
These recommendations can help protect your health and the health of your community.
01. Stay informed
- Learn about the effects of the substances you use.
- Learn about possible interactions with your antiretroviral medicines.
- Use reliable and updated sources.
02. Know your body and your limits
- Start with low doses if you are going to use a substance.
- Wait for the effects before redosing.
- Not all substances affect every person in the same way.
03. Avoid higher-risk combinations
- Combining substances can increase risk and make effects less predictable.
- Be especially careful with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, and GHB/GBL.
- Check this guide before combining.
04. Hydrate and eat
- Stay hydrated, especially with stimulant substances or in hot spaces.
- Eat something before or during use to maintain energy and well-being.
05. Choose safer environments
- Use in ventilated, comfortable, and familiar places.
- Avoid situations of violence, discrimination, or criminalisation.
- Do not use alone. Having company can save lives.
06. Plan your time
- Some substances may last longer than expected.
- You do not need to rush. Give your body and mind time.
- Plan your return or rest safely.
07. Take care of your antiretroviral treatment
- Take your ARVs every day as prescribed.
- Do not stop your treatment.
- If you have questions about interactions, talk with your healthcare team.
08. Ask for support when you need it
- If you feel physically or emotionally unwell, seek help.
- Your mental health is also part of care.
- Talking can help. You are not alone.
09. Take care of your community
- Share reliable information.
- Support people without judgment.
- Together we can build safer and more caring spaces.
Remember: Every person is different. What works for someone else may not work for you. Stay informed, listen to your body, take care of your health, and ask for support when you need it.
Important: This guide does not promote or encourage substance use. Its purpose is to provide evidence-based information to reduce risks and support informed decisions.