Risk Mitigation For IV #

As stated earlier, injecting (IV) is a terrible idea from a safety perspective. However, if you are using this RoA regardless, specialist websites commonly offer the following tips to mitigate some of the risks. [Note: Consult these sites directly for greater detail.]

Only inject in a clean safe environment and make sure that equipment and other items are clean and are readily to hand.
Prepare in advance for an overdose (e.g. have people around to check on you). If you are using an opioid have some naloxone available, if possible. Also have contact details for the emergency services to hand.
Always prepare for yourself and always inject yourself.
Never share needles or equipment, including with your partner.
Always use a new capped needle.
Make sure that the injection site on your skin is clean.
If sharing a drug, split it before use. Failing this, at least ensure that a fresh container is used for each hit (and no re-use or re-dipping of needles).
Use filters to help remove impurities.
Remove air bubbles (e.g. point upwards, push gently and flick).
Use an unshared tourniquet.
Don’t inject into an artery; only a vein.
If you don’t find a vein straight away use a new needle. Take your time.
Don’t inject into your hands (the veins are too small).
Never inject into an area that’s swollen or sore.
Try to rotate injection sites.
Insert the needle at a 45 degree angle, injecting towards the heart (in the direction of the blood flow).
Make sure that the needle’s hole is facing upwards.
Make sure that you are in a vein (you should see blood if you push slightly and then draw-back a little). [Note: only draw-back minimally]
If the blood is brighter/pink-red, rather than dark/black-red you are injecting into an artery. Abort immediately and stem the bleeding.
Release the tourniquet and inject slowly, keeping arm straight.
Remove the needle slowly.
Apply a light press to the injection site to stem blood flow.
Secure and recap your syringe ready for return or safe disposal.
Clean-up everything (e.g. with bleach) and finally clean yourself.
If you have problems with bleeding or swelling seek medical help urgently.

Remember that this isn’t the solution, but these steps may help to reduce risk. The solution is to stop using this RoA. Please do try. Use whatever support services are available and never be afraid to ask for help. I can’t stress this enough.

Finally, if you think you may have overdosed, or if you encounter any other sort of medical issue, don’t delay: call the emergency services.