Too Much Information on Heroin Use?

Potential heroin users don’t need the government’s help to become addicted. Anyone interested in trying the dangerous drug can find someone willing to help them get started. But a pamphlet put out by the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene is causing some controversy.

The 16-page “Take Charge, Take Care: 10 Tips for Safer Use” brochure was created in 2007 "to help people who are injecting drugs reduce the harm associated with this type of drug use until they are able to get into treatment and recover," according to the agency. At a reported cost of more than $32,000 to taxpayers to produce the 70,000 pamphlets, some take issue with the printed material, calling it a “how-to” manual. Others see it as the government implying there is a “safe” way to inject drugs.

Heroin High In New York

“Heroin use is at epidemic levels in New York, and we should be spending money to address that, not teach first-timers how to use," says New York City Councilman Peter F. Vallone Jr., chairman of the council's Public Safety Committee in an article on CNN.com.

CNN.com goes on to report that, “information in the publication takes the form of ‘ten critical tips for reducing the harm that illicit drug use and especially injection drug use can cause.’” The pamphlet then provides tips under heading including "how to prevent overdose," "prepare drugs carefully" and "take care of your veins." In a nod to treatment, there is also a category titled, "ask for help to stop using."

By offering tips such as “use with someone else,” “use a new syringe every time” and suggestions on how to best find a vein, it’s no wonder the pamphlet is controversial. New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg addressed the issue recently, explaining, "using hard drugs is just not a smart thing to do, but we have an obligation no matter what the people do in this city to make sure they do it as safe as they can."

Vallone has reportedly sent a letter to the city's health commissioner Monday to immediately cease circulation and funding for the pamphlet.

Heroin Addiction Rehab

If you or a family member is struggling with a heroin addiction, call The Canyon at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.