harm-reduction
What Is Harm Reduction? Strategies That Save Lives
Harm reduction meets people where they are. Learn what harm reduction means, which strategies save the most lives, and why major health organizations support this approach.
Harm Reduction
Practical, evidence-based strategies that reduce overdose deaths, prevent disease, and keep the door to recovery open. Harm reduction saves lives.
Keeping People Alive Is the First Priority
Harm reduction is a set of public health strategies that reduce the negative consequences of drug use without requiring abstinence as a precondition. Major organizations including the World Health Organization, the CDC, and SAMHSA support harm reduction as an essential component of the response to the overdose crisis.
These strategies do not replace treatment. They keep people alive and healthy long enough to access treatment when they are ready. The articles below cover the tools, the evidence, and how to access services near you.
107,941 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2022 Source: CDC
26,500+ overdoses reversed by community naloxone programs Source: CDC
50% reduction in HIV from syringe service programs Source: CDC
6 in 10 counterfeit pills contain a lethal fentanyl dose Source: DEA
Harm Reduction Articles & Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Does harm reduction encourage drug use?
No. Research consistently shows that harm reduction strategies do not increase drug use. Syringe service programs, naloxone distribution, and supervised consumption sites all reduce death and disease without encouraging greater substance use. Many people who access harm reduction services eventually enter treatment voluntarily.
Is naloxone (Narcan) available without a prescription?
Yes. Naloxone is available over the counter at most pharmacies in the United States. Many community organizations and health departments also distribute it for free. The FDA approved over-the-counter Narcan nasal spray in 2023. No medical training is required to administer it.
What are fentanyl test strips?
Fentanyl test strips are small, inexpensive testing tools that detect the presence of fentanyl in drug samples before use. They cost about $1 each, take two minutes, and are over 96% accurate. They cannot measure the amount of fentanyl present but can tell you whether it is there at all.
Where can I find harm reduction services near me?
SAMHSA's treatment locator at findtreatment.gov includes harm reduction programs. The National Harm Reduction Coalition at harmreduction.org maintains a directory of local syringe service programs and naloxone distribution sites. Your local health department can also connect you with services.
Trusted Sources
All content on this page is informed by peer-reviewed research and data from the following organizations.
CDC — Syringe Services Programs
Evidence on the effectiveness of syringe service programs
SAMHSA — Harm Reduction
Federal resources on harm reduction strategies and services
WHO — Harm Reduction
Global evidence on harm reduction for drug use
National Harm Reduction Coalition
Advocacy, training, and resources for harm reduction programs
Need Help Now?
SAMHSA's National Helpline offers free, confidential support 24/7. Call for referrals to treatment and harm reduction services near you.
Call 1-800-662-4357