September 17th, 2024
Researchers at the University of Otago are calling for the expansion of drug-checking services across Aotearoa, according to a recent study published in the Harm Reduction Journal, highlighting the need to better manage the risks associated with MDMA use.
The big picture: The study, led by Jai Whelan, a PhD candidate in the Department of Psychology, stresses the crucial role of drug-checking services like KnowYourStuffNZ in providing vital information and reducing potential harms associated with drug use.
Zoom in: Data from the 2021/22 New Zealand Health Survey shows that 4.3% of individuals over 15 have used MDMA in the past year. Despite significant engagement in harm reduction behaviours among users, the availability and accessibility of drug-checking services are limited.
Details: The findings from a national survey of over 900 people indicate that many MDMA users implement harm reduction strategies, such as obtaining drugs from trusted sources and planning their usage. However, only 42% have used reagent testing, and 27% have accessed KnowYourStuffNZ, highlighting a gap in service reach.
What they're saying: Jai Whelan points to the benefits of accessible drug-checking services: "Having such information can better inform future harm reduction efforts, including service provision and drug education and messaging," he states. This approach could significantly enhance safety measures for drug users.
Driving the news: Among those who used drug-checking services, 95.9% reported gaining knowledge about harm reduction, and 53.3% altered their behaviour based on the information provided. This underscores the effective role of these services in influencing safer drug use practices.
The bottom line: "Drug-checking services need to be more available and should continue to be developed so that we can better serve all people who use drugs," says Mr. Whelan. His statement reflects an urgent call to broaden the reach of these services to better address public health concerns related to drug use.