APA Dictionary of Psychology

a program to reduce the spread of blood-borne disease, such as HIV/AIDS or hepatitis, through the sharing and reuse of needles by people who intravenously inject illicit drugs or other substances. Drug users are given the opportunity to trade their used needles and syringes for new, unused equipment at no cost without fear of legal repercussions or stigma; in some cases, users can receive the clean equipment without trading anything in. These programs often provide drug use counseling, HIV testing, and other services as well. They have been shown to reduce the transmission of HIV and hepatitis, but they are criticized by people who believe that they encourage drug use. Also called syringe exchange program or needle and syringe program.