Changes in substance supply and use characteristics among people who use drugs (PWUD) during the COVID-19 global pandemic: A national qualitative assessment in Canada

Original research
by
Ali, Farihah et al

Release Date

2021

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

The current study examined how COVID-19 has impacted substance use supply and use characteristics among a national cohort of PWUD in Canada.

Findings/Key points

This study demonstrated the impacts of COVID-19 on PWUD, including a significant disruption substance supply. For many, these changes led to increased use and substitution for toxic and adulterated substances, which ultimately amplified PWUD's risk for experiencing related harms, including overdoses. These findings warrant the need for improved supports and services, as well as accessibility of safe supply programs, take home naloxone kits, and novel approaches to ensure PWUD have the tools necessary to mitigate risk when using substances.

Design/methods

n=200 semi-structured interviews with PWUD

Keywords

Overdose
Evidence base
Harm reduction
Policy/Regulatory
Safer supply
Advocacy
About PWUD