Harm Reduction
Harm Reduction is:
A public health approach that works to minimize the health and safety risks associated with substance use for individuals and the community.
A set of evidence-based practices that support safer behaviors, connect people to care, and promote overall well-being.
An approach grounded in respect and accountability that encourages engagement, treatment readiness, and healthier outcomes.
Sharps Disposal
Disposing of used sharps reduces the risk of blood-borne viruses such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and other diseases that can be contracted through used sharps like needles. There are a number of locations in Onondaga County where you can safely dispose of used sharps. Please see the map below. In addition, the Onondaga County Syringe Services Program will accept used sharps for disposal.
Drug Disposal
Is your medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no longer use? Your medicine is for you alone. What’s safe for you might be harmful for someone else. The best way to dispose of your expired, unwanted, or unused medicines is through a drug take-back program — or you can do it at home. Click here to find a disposal location near you.
Disposing Medicines in Household Trash
If a take-back program is not available, almost all medicines, except those on the FDA flush list (see below), can be thrown into your household trash. These include prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in pills, liquids, drops, patches, and creams.
Follow these steps:
- Remove the drugs from their original containers and mix them with something undesirable, such as used coffee grounds, dirt, or cat litter. This makes the medicine less appealing to children and pets and unrecognizable to someone who might intentionally go through the trash looking for drugs.
- Put the mixture in something you can close (a re-sealable zipper storage bag, empty can, or other container) to prevent the drug from leaking or spilling out.
- Throw the container in the garbage.
- Scratch out all your personal information on the empty medicine packaging to protect your identity and privacy. Throw the packaging away.
Additionally, we have free Drug Disposal bags to simplify the process, reach out to us to request them at 315.418.5365
Overdose Reversal Training and Naloxone
Naloxone (also known as Narcan) is a medicine that acts quickly to reverse an opioid overdose. This will restart the brain signals that tell the body to breathe, and the person should start breathing again.
You can learn how to use Naloxone by scheduling a training with the Onondaga County Health Department, or taking our online training. Learn more on our Naloxone page.
Naloxone is also available at local pharmacies and overdose prevention programs. You can find these programs here.
Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips
- The OCHD has free Fentanyl and Xylazine Test strips for community members who will use them.
- Request these by calling or texting (315) 418-5365!
- These strips are used to test substances to see if they contain Fentanyl and Xylazine.
- Knowing this information can help inform what is in a substance and help make decisions about what to do next.
Learn how to use these strips by watching our video!
What is an SSP, aka syringe services program?
- An SSP is a confidential program that provides free sterile syringes and other harm reduction supplies.
Why are SSP’s important?
- Reduces risk of bloodborne illness and skin infection among people who inject drugs.
- Reduces syringe waste within the community.
- Provides linkages to treatment and recovery services, as well as other harm reduction resources.
How can I get enrolled in the SSP?
- Call or text (315) 418-5365 OR
- Come to one of our SSP locations, schedule posted below with day, time and location.