5toLife- Respond to Opioid Overdose with naloxone. PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION 5 T o Life Steps continued from HRVic opioid reversal kit instruction sheet REVERSE OPIOID OVERDOSE How To Videos: Ampoules- Injectable Nyxoid- Nasal Spray Prenoxad- Injectable 5 to Life: Naloxone Instructions Click to enlarge AMPOULES-Naloxone Instructions FAQs Frequently Asked Questions ABOUT NALOXONE THE PRODUCT: What is naloxone? Naloxone is a TGA approved medicine thats ONLY use is to quickly (but temporarily) reverse an opioid overdose. What else is naloxone used for? Naloxone, also known as it's brand names Narcan, Nyxoid or Prenoxad, can be administered as a nasal spray or by injection. It quickly but temporarily reverses an OPIOID overdose only. Examples of opioids are heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine and nitazenes. It will not work on ove rdoses from cocaine, methamphetamine, or other non-opioid drugs. page under construction......

Drugs List DXM Read More 2C-B Read More Nangs Read More GHB Read More ' Poppers ' Read More Nitazenes Read More Cocaine Read More LSD Read More MDMA Read More Heroin Read More

HARM REDUCTION Vs. HARM MINIMISATION Harm reduction is a way of promoting health and preventing drug related harm that meets people where they are at. Harm reduction focuses on reducing the risks and adverse health consequences associated with unsafe drug use, in particular HIV and viral hepatitis. Harm reduction programs have been shown to lower risk of HIV and hepatitis transmission for drug users by offering information and assistance in a non-judgmental manner. Important Principles of Harm Reduction Include: A non-judgmental approach that treats every person with dignity, compassion, and respect. Use of evidence-based and cost-effective practices to prevent and reduce drug related harm Active and meaningful participation of drug users and community stakeholders in shaping sensible policies and practices around drug use Focus on enhancing quality of life for individuals and communities, rather than promoting cessation of all drug use Recognition of the determinants of health and the complex interplay of social factors that influence vulnerability to drug-related harm, including poverty, social inequality and discrimination Empowerment of drug users as the primary agents in reducing drug related harms Commitment to defending universal human rights. Harm reduction activities and interventions to improve the health and quality of life for people who use drugs and their communities, include: Peer education- people who use drugs informing and educating people who use drugs Needle and syringe programs (NSPs); Pharmacotherapies (ORT) for drug dependence, including methadone and suboxone; Voluntary testing for HIV, viral hepatitis and other STIs or blood borne infections; Confidential pre and post-test discussion and counselling Access to treatment for HIV and hepatitis C & B and other STIs Provision of primary health care including wound care and vein care Overdose prevention activities, including peer distribution of Naloxone and first aid training; Referral to drug treatment programs as requested. Some other forms of Harm Reduction include: Seatbelts in vehicles Cancer Screening Wearing bicycle helmets Using condoms Sun screen and sun protection Nicotine patches/gum ALL IN A NAME. Harm Reduction Victoria recognise that abstinence (i.e. quitting drugs altogether) isn’t realistic or possible for everyone who uses drugs. This should not disqualify drug users from the same chances and choices about their health care as non-users. By learning about drugs and ways to reduce the possible harms associated with drug use, we empower ourselves to make informed choices. HRVic’s aim is to provide non-judgmental, relevant, accurate and up to date information. HARM REDUCTION VS HARM MINIMISATION Aren't they the same thing? In a word? No. Since 1985 Australia’s documented drug strategy has aimed to address the harmful use of licit drugs (tobacco, alcohol and pharmaceutical drugs) , illicit drugs (heroin, cannabis, cocaine and amphetamine-type stimulants) and other psychoactive substances (e.g. inhalants) , using a harm minimisation approach. The principle of ‘harm minimisation’ provides the overarching framework for drug policy in Australia [1, 2] . There are multiple ways to minimise the harms to individuals and communities from drug use – reflecting this, the framework of harm minimisation encompasses the three pillars of demand reduction , harm reduction , and supply reduction [3] . Harm minimisation seeks a balance between these elements, and is regarded as an evidence-based and pragmatic approach [4] . This approach has facilitated collaboration across health, law enforcement and education, as well as partnerships between governments and with non-government agencies and community stakeholders. Ritter A, Lancaster K, Grech K, Reuter P (2011) Monograph No. 21: An assessment of illicit drug policy in Australia (1985-2010): Themes and trends. Sydney: National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre Ritter A, Lancaster K (2013) Policy models and influences on policy processes. In: Ritter A, Hamilton M, King T, eds. Drug Use in Australian Society. South Melbourne: Oxford University Press Ministerial Council on Drug Strategy (2011) National Drug Strategy 2010-2015: A framework for action on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia Ritter A, Cameron J (2006) A review of the efficacy and effectiveness of harm reduction strategies for alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs. Drug and Alcohol Review;25:611-624

DXM Dextromethorphan APPEARANCE Sold in syrup, tablet, spray, & lozenge forms. In its pure form, dextromethorphan occurs as a white powder ADMINISTRATION Ingested orally, Inhaled nasally DURATION Total: 4-6 hours DESCRIPTION Dextromethorphan hydrobromide (‘DXM’ or ‘DM’) which, when taken at doses exceeding the recommended therapeutic range, becomes a powerful dissociative drug with psychedelic properties. Part of the morphinan class of substances, DXM has sedative, dissociative, and stimulant properties (at higher doses). Dissociatives are mostly NMDA receptor antagonists, these substances are hallucinogenic but different than psychedelics. As per the name, these substances create a distance between the user and reality. It is also the cough suppressant in many overthe-counter (‘OTC’) cold and cough medicines especially in those with ‘DM’ or ‘Tuss’ in their names. Dextromethorphan has numerous other uses in medicine, ranging from pain relief (as either the primary analgesic, or an opioid potentiator) and psychological applications to the treatment of dependence. DXM is not to be confused with Dextrorphan or Dexamethasone. Sold in syrup, tablet, spray, & lozenge forms. In its pure form, dextromethorphan occurs as a white powder. Examples include Robitussin, NyQuil, Dimetapp, & Vicks. It is IMPORTANT to make sure DXM is the only active ingredient in the preparation. EFFECTS THE FIRST PLATEAU(1.5-2.5mg/kg): mild stimulant effect with a little bit of a buzz, / has been compared to MDA THE SECOND PLATEAU(2.5-7.5mg/kg): more intoxicating, been compared to being drunk & stoned at the same time THE THIRD PLATEAU(7.5-15mg/kg): is dissociative, like a lower dose of ketamine. THE FOURTH PLATEAU(15-20mg/kg): fully dissociative like a higher dose of ketamine. You should AVOID higher plateau doses unless you have someone with you who can take care of you in case you get sick or freak out. It happens on DXM. Many things can happen unexpectedly on upper plateaus, such as spontaneous memory recall, complex delusions, hallucinations, out-of-body experiences, near-death experiences, and perceived contact with spiritual or alien entities. You need a strong foundation of support and experience to navigate this space. *WARNING: Death has occurred in the 25mg/kg range. PHYSICAL • Urinary Retention • Increased Heart Rate • Increased Blood Pressure • Sweating • Itchiness • Lethargy • Slurred Speech • Red/Blotchy Skin Rashes • Hyperactivity • Nystagmus (Rapid Eye Movement) • Difficulty Communicating • Nausea/Dizziness • Allergic-Like Responses EMOTIONAL • Euphoria • Happiness / Mood Lift PSYCHOLOGICAL • Visual / Auditory hallucinations • Dissociation • Reduced or increased anxiety • Introspection • Music enhancement • Confusion • Depression/fatigue • Talkative • Short term memory loss or confusion • Disorientation • Paranoia • Altered time perception It is Not recomendded that you use DXM if you have: Respiratory (breathing) issues, Liver issues, Heart issues. LONG TERM EFFECTS The toxicity and long-term health effects of recreational DXM use in humans has not been studied in any scientific context and the exact toxic dosage is unknown.illness, but it is important to be aware of this possibility. Many chronic users report significant issues with memory, attention, and mood that persist for many months after stopping usage. SAFER USING: Harm Reduction Tips • AVOID using any preparation of DXM that has ANY other active ingredients, as they can make you sick and/or dead. • General rule of thumb for DXM : 1 plateau/week. In other words, If you take a Third Plateau Dose, wait 3 weeks before using again. If you use a Second Plateau dose, wait 2 weeks before using again. • Try to use in comfortable environments with people you trust to look out for you • Watch out what you are mixing DXM with, as mixing with certain drugs can cause serotonin syndrome, or Ataxia, • Some people can’t use DXM due to a genetic mutation in an important enzyme. Do your research.

Bloody Serious Facts is the original Hep C workshop developed by people with lived experience of hep C & healthcare professionals specifically designed for AOD workers, nurses, NSP workers, community health staff, students of health professions BLOODY SERIOUS FACTS Online & Face To Face Hepatitis C Training St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne and Harm Reduction Victoria have partnered to provide an interactive workshop on hepatitis C. Learn about prevention, transmission and the latest treatment available. Hear, from lived experience about the impact of living with the virus Bloody Serious Facts is a hands-on workshop that was developed and is run by healthcare professionals and people with lived experience of Hep C. This training is suitable for AOD workers, nurses, NSP workers, community health or anyone who works with people who are affected by hepatitis C. All welcome. The 2.0 hour session covers: Back to Basics of Hep C : Testing, Transmission, Diagnoses and Treatment-Everything you wanted to know about this amazingly resilient but treatable virus. Treatments - Then and Now : Keeping up to date with the direct acting anti virals that are changing people's lives. The Impact & Meaning of Being Hep C + : An insight into living with Hep C and the treatment journey by a person with lived experience. A Practical Exercise : The not so obvious risks of transmission during the mixing up and injecting process. *f2f Training Location: Harm Reduction Victoria 299-305 Victoria St. Brunswick Cost: FREE Places are limited so please register now to secure your spot. Register By Clicking On Link Below 8th APRIL online 10am - 12pm REGISTERAPRIL8 19th MAY f2f* 9:30am - 12:30pm REGISTER MAY19 14th JULY online 10am - 12pm REGISTERJULY14 15th SEPT f2f* 9:30am - 12:30pm REGISTERSEPT15 17th NOV online 10am - 12pm REGISTERNOV17 Please contact janed@hrvic.org.au if you are unsure about your event date or Be sure that you have booked the correct date for you! FAQs Q: What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event? A: For people who need to drive in, there is a small amount of free and paid parking surrounding the HRVic Office however, if you can avoid bringing a car, there is ample public transport options. We are directly across from Brunswick train station and 1 block down from Sydney Rd. trams. Q: Could I get something to prove I have completed the training for my work or personal resume, like a certificate? A: If you or your work require proof of attendance or completion of the training, please ask Jane prior to the date of your training. Q: "My organisation is located in rural Victoria and it's difficult for us to reach the city for the start time or we want to run one of these sessions for more than 10 of our workers at our location, do you do Bloody Serious Facts training on other sites for organisations?" A: Just like we do with our communities, we can work with you where you are at! We can travel to you or offer an online option. Email us for details and enquiries at janed@hrvic.org.au or call (03)9329 1500

💊 We want your voice! Help shape Victoria’s new drug checking service by joining our Service User Reference Group (SURG). Share your experiences, give feedback, and make sure drug checking meets the needs of our community. Encrypted Expression of Interest form here: We’re looking for the next group of people with living/lived experience to help us make drug checking services in Victoria the best they can be. The 'Victorian Pill Testing Service' is being run by a consortium made up of YSAS, The Loop Australia and Harm Reduction Victoria, with support from the Victorian Department of Health. It’s part of an 18-month trial, offering drug checking at events (mobile) and at our fixed site in Brunswick St. We’ve successfully formed a Service User Reference Group (SURG) to make sure the service reflects the needs and voices of the community. The group has been meeting regularly with support from Harm Reduction Victoria staff and community members. The first group has finished their 6 month contract and as per their contract they must now step aside for another group of people who use drugs to share their voices as part of the SURG. What you’ll do in the group: Share your feedback on how drug checking is working so far – at events and at the fixed site Advise the consortium and the DoH on how they can improve the design, feel and overall experience of the service Look at service data and give input into quality improvement Extra opportunities for members: Bring community perspectives into broader conversations about drug checking policy and planning in Victoria Meet and ask questions of the service providers and other key stakeholders Interested? Fill out this encrypted Expression of Interest form by July 31 to apply. Expressions Of Interest

Recent ALERTS Substance Info Cannabis Opioids Nitrous Ketamine Methamphetamine LSD

Harm Reduction Victoria event listings Event at HRVic International Overdose Awareness Day (AUG 31) On FRIDAY 29th AUGUST, We'd love you to join us to celebrate the lives of our friends and family we've lost with some training, followed by a feed and a movie! Open for everyone to attend, At 4pm we'll be doing Overdose RECOGNITION and RESPONSE Training- including Overdose for Amphetamine type substances and Overdose for Opioids with naloxone administration. Rarely does overdose training include drugs other than opioids but not all overdoses look like someones asleep! How do you recognise an 'uppers' overdose?? COME FIND OUT!! Then at 6pm we'll have a hot, free dinner put on by the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and cozy up to watch an old cult movie classic- "Smoke 'em if you got 'em!" at 7pm. See you Friday! If you have any questions, call 93291500. YOSHI Remembering one of our own... Stay Up to Date Here HRVic Events International Drug Users Day HRVic Scavenger Hunt and Community Dinner Fri, 07 Nov Brunswick More info Free Event Int. Overdose Awareness Day Event Fri, 29 Aug Brunswick More info Free Event Registrations Closed In Celebration of Yoshi Fri, 01 Aug Welshmans Reef More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed HRVic Support. Dont Punish. TRIVIA NIGHT Thu, 26 June Online and At HRVic Office More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed Celebrating Yoshi Tue, 24 June North Ryde More info Registration Closed Multiple Dates 'Fixed Ideas'- Community Consultation on the Drug Checking Fixed Site service Fri, 28 Feb Brunswick More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed Drug Checking in Victoria - Community Info Sesh Thu, 20 Feb Brunswick More info Registration Closed Sold Out International Drug Users Day 2024- Back in The Day... Fri, 01 Nov Brunswick More info Sold Out Registrations Closed HRVic Community Dinner - Grill n Chill Cookout- 05 July 2024 Fri, 05 July Brunswick More info Registration Closed "CHECK,Please!" - Mon, 25 Mar Zoom More info Free Event Registrations Closed FREE Webcast. Entheo Genesis Australis presents Garden States Webcast - Cubensis Rising: Wed, 24 Jan https://www.youtube.com/live/JTrg1yWiX40?si More info Sold Out SAVE THE DATE: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2023 Wed, 06 Dec Brunswick More info Free Event International Overdose Awareness Day @ HRVic HQ Thu, 31 Aug Brunswick More info Free Event Registrations Closed ONLINE EVENT: AIVL CONSUMERS FORUM: ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT CHANGES TO OPIOID DEPENDENCE MEDICATIONS ANSWERED Fri, 30 June AIVL CONSUMERS FORUM: ODT FEE CHANGES AUS More info Registration Closed Registrations Closed Support Don't Punish Day | HR23 Post Conference Summary Gathering Mon, 26 June HRVic More info Sold Out Registrations Closed HRVic's Drug Law ReforUm-Put The 'U' In Drug Law Reform! Fri, 14 Oct Coming Soon More info Registration Closed

INTERNATIONAL DRUG USERS DAY 1:11:20 On this day we remember not only all those we have lost to the drug and all the years we have lost in prisons around the world but all the amazing positive difference we make – from overdose response to drug checking to peer support and education to hep C treatment navigation. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit our communities globally very hard. While Harm Reduction Victoria has been affected, the team have continued much of our work, despite being less able to engage in face to face & peer to peer work. We rallied quickly to reach out to community when the Flemington / North Melbourne Housing hard lockdown came down. We worked with close partners to do on the ground outreach in truly awful circumstances. We have worked with service providers and allies to provide naloxone and needle and syringe outreach to the hotels in central Melbourne. We have delivered naloxone training online and PAMS has assisted hundreds of people to start or remain on opioid substitution treatment over their phoneline. Our ace designer and Health Promotion Team have pushed out awesome info about COVID-19 and DanceWize has not missed a beat in supporting their community. Today we are so proud to release a new video in partnership with SSDP and Pill Testing Australia. "Pill Testing Explained" -2020

Updates on Frankston Healthcare clinic for patients and Pharmacotherapy consumers. IMPORTANT NOTICE: FRANKSTON HEALTHCARE CLINIC PATIENTS: JOIN HRVIC HRVic is a community organisation. It is peer led- meaning it is run and governed by people with lived and current living experience of drug use who live in Victoria. Stay Up to date with new information and what's happening for our community around pharmacotherapy and drug law reform. Join HRVic

Want to join the team at HRVic? Find out how here. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES POSITION VACANT Event Services Coordination Lead This position has been established following the completion of an 18-month drug checking implementation trial. Due to the specialised technical and operational expertise required, the unique complexities of mobile service delivery, relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks, funding considerations, and the evolving nature of the DCS over the next 12 months., this position encompasses two primary functions: · Providing leadership in event planning, coordination and operational delivery of the mobile drug checking service; and · Progressively enhancing skills and experience, (with mentoring and support) to become a key management contact for HRVic and the mobile drug checking service if deemed necessary in the future. For more detailed information and a full position description, click the link below. All Applicants must submit their applications along with the required selection criteria as mentioned in the attachment by August 30, 2026 at midnight. FAIRNESS STATEMENT: Some parts of this position have been filled on a short-term basis and is now being advertised through our standard EOI process. The incumbent is eligible to apply and will be considered alongside all other applicants. The incumbent may use examples gained through undertaking the position as evidence of capability. However, all applicants will be assessed against the same criteria, and selection will be based on merit against the advertised requirements. Incumbent status alone will not determine the outcome of the process. If you have any questions or queries about this role, please contact Harm Reduction Victoria on 03 9329 1500. View Application Details POSITION VACANT Drug Trends & Notifications Project Lead Applications CLOSED. CLOSED POSITION VACANT Harm Reduction Peer Workforce Educator Applications CLOSED. CLOSED POSITION VACANT Harm Reduction Peer Worker for Events: Victorian Pill Testing Service CLOSED POSITION VACANT Fixed Site Operations Lead CLOSED 12.03.2025 POSITION VACANT: Hepatitis C Peer Outreach Worker CLOSED 29.01.25 POSITION VACANT: Project Worker(s), Fuse Initiatives CLOSED 31.10.2024 POSITION VACANT: Program Support Officer, DanceWize (Casual) CLOSED POSITION VACANT: Coordinator, Fuse Initiatives (Fulltime) CLOSED 28.02.2024 POSITION VACANT: PAMS Services Officer CLOSED DanceWize Coordinator APPLICATIONS CLOSED PAMS Service Officer - Pharmacotherapy Advocacy Mediation and Support 2022 APPLICATIONS CLOSED Fuse Projects- LLE (living/living experience) Educator 2022 APPLICATIONS CLOSED Fuse Projects- LLEW Policy Officer APPLICATIONS CLOSED Health Promotion Officer – Workforce Focus 2022 APPLICATIONS CLOSED Health Promotion Officer – Community Focus 2022 APPLICATIONS CLOSED Organisational Services Support Officer 2022 APPLICATIONS CLOSED EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES ELSEWHERE AIVL : https://aivl.org.au/employment-opportunities Ethical Jobs: www.ethicaljobs.com.au

The aim of the Peer Network Program© is to reduce the spread of hepatitis C and other blood borne viruses like HIV and hepatitis B. The plan is to recruit, train and support Peer Networkers© to distribute needles and syringes to their friends and associates as well as providing education about safer drug use and ‘modelling’ safer injecting practices. By increasing access to sterile needles/syringes and passing on important information and education related to reducing the harms of injecting drugs. In Melbourne, we have excellent Needle Syringe Programs (NSPs), but when you look closely at NSP statistics, a number of groups including young people who inject and particularly young women, people from CALD backgrounds and aboriginal injectors are under-represented. These are exactly the groups of people who inject that the Peer Network Program© seek to recruit as ‘peer networkers’. We know that peer education and distribution is already happening – despite the fact that it is technically illegal in Victoria to give a fit* to someone else unless you are authorised to do so. Even the regular stat sheet that you fill out every time you go into an NSP asks how many other people you are picking up for! HRVic believes a change in legislation is long overdue! Once recruited, the peer networkers will attend a comprehensive training program. On completion of training they will be registered as HRVic volunteers and authorised Needle Syringe Program (NSP) Outreach Workers. *fit= outfit ie. syringe/needle