Needle sharing is the colloquialism for the reuse of syringes by multiple illegal drug users to administer intravenous drugs, and is a primary vector for diseases which can be transmitted through blood, including hepatitis and AIDS. A syringe consists of a plunger fitted to a tube with a small opening on one end used either to inject or suck out a liquid. ... An intravenous drug (IV drug) is a drug administered intravenously, either by an intravenous drip or a syringe. ... In medicine (gastroenterology), hepatitis is any disease featuring inflammation of the liver. ... AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, sometimes written Aids) is a global, human epidemic. ...
See also
Needle-exchange programme A needle-exchange programme is a social policy based on the philosophy of harm reduction whereby people can obtain hypodermic needles and syringes without a prescription for little or no cost. ...
A needle-exchange programme is a controversial social policy, based on the philosophy of harm reduction, whereby people can obtain hypodermic needles and syringes without a prescription for little or no cost.
They may require the exchange of a dirty (used) needle for the clean needle, and education on drug abuse and blood-borne diseases may be provided.
The provision of needle-exchange programmes is opposed by certain groups on the grounds that it represents a weakening of the "War on Drugs" and encourages drug use and associated criminality.