Consumption and advice

Beware of lip wounds before “passing around.” There is a risk of viral contamination by blood (especially HCV). Inhaling smoke obtained from combustion is a risk factor for many cancers, cardiovascular and respiratory tract diseases.

Repeated use of products like cocaine are very irritating to the nasal mucosa, causing hidden lesions (micro bleeding) which can spread hepatitis viruses (VHC especially). With direct blood contact, the hepatitis C virus spreads way easier than AIDS. What’s more, it can survive in the air for a long time. Do not share or trade your straw or any gear with anyone. Make sure the objects you are using as straws are clean. Also make sure that the support of your lines is clean: avoid banknotes, found or dirty papers, toilet rims… If you have a straw dedicated to snorting, make sure you clean it every time.
Crush your product in the finest powder you can obtain. Wash your nose with water before and after snorting. Regularly switch nostrils. Over time, snorting can lead to perforation of the nasal septum. Pain while snorting is a warning sign that you must not neglect.
Finally, remember that snorting does not prevent overdose or intoxication.

If you inject products, do not share any injection gear (needle, cotton wool, water and spoon) because of the risk of spreading diseases including AIDS or hepatitis viruses… Always use new and sterilised gear for each injection. Disinfect the spoon and wash your hands with soap before handling sterilised gear. Use sterilised or mineral water, never use toilet water. Disinfection of the injection site with alcohol swab assures you with maximal protection from infection risks.
After the injection, keep a clean and dry cotton at the injection point for at least 30 seconds. In the absence of a needle collector nearby, neutralize your used gear and throw it all (needle, bag, cotton wool and water) in a can that you will crush and throw in the trash. In France, needle selling is legal in pharmacies.
Furthermore, prevention kits (Stéribox 2®, Kit+®) and Stérifilts® (filters that replace cotton wool filtering 90% of the impurities) are sold in pharmacies or freely distributed by risk reduction associations. The kits in a sterile bag include two insulin syringes, two alcohol swabs, two heating and dilution containers, two dry swabs, two sterile water vials for injection and one condom.