Needle Exchanges (NEPs)

Needle Exchange Programs (NEPs,) also known as Syringe Service Programs (SSPs,) provide sterile syringes and other supplies to people who inject drugs (PWID.) NEPs help reduce the spread of infections, promote safer drug use, and connect individuals to health and social services.

Benefits of NEPs

• Disease Prevention: Reduces HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C transmission.

• Safer Drug Use: Offers clean syringes and supplies to minimize risks.

• Overdose Prevention: Distributes naloxone (overdose reversal) and provides education.

• Access to Services: Links participants to addiction treatment, testing, and counseling.

NEPs in Ohio and Greater Cleveland

• Local Programs: The Cleveland Syringe Exchange Program and Project DAWN provide essential services.

• Focus Areas: Targeted to areas with high opioid use and health disparities.

• Impact: Decreases HIV/Hepatitis rates, connects people to care, and improves public safety through proper syringe disposal.

NEPs and Recovery

• Trust Building: Encourages users to engage with harm reduction workers and explore recovery.

• Treatment Access: Referrals to addiction treatment and counseling are provided.

• Education: Teaches users safer drug practices and options for recovery.

National Overview

• Widespread Use: NEPs are active in many U.S. states, with major programs in New York, California, and Washington.

• Challenges: Limited federal funding, but local and state support continues to grow.

• Positive Outcomes: Reduced HIV/Hepatitis rates and better access to treatment.

Alternatives to NEPs

• Syringe Vending Machines: Dispense clean syringes in areas without NEPs.

• Mobile Units: Provide harm reduction services in under-served regions.

• Telehealth & Hotlines: Offer overdose prevention and service connections.

• Pharmacy Access: Allows syringe purchases without a prescription.

The Bottom Line/Outside Resources

NEPs are vital in reducing harm from injection drug use, saving lives, and offering a pathway to recovery. In Ohio, they play a crucial role in combating the opioid crisis.

For more information on local resources please visit the following links:

• National Alliance of Syringe Exchange Programs (NASEN)

• Syringe Programs in Ohio by County