Syringe vending machines as a form of needle syringe programme: Advantages and disadvantages

Abstract

In a bid to increase the anonymous and non‐stigmatized access to sterile injecting equipment for injecting drug users (IDUs) and provide extended hours availability, syringe vending machines were introduced into needle syringe programmes (NSPs) in several countries. This article examines, based on existing international experience, the observed advantages and disadvantages of these machines. Despite the disadvantage associated with their lack of ability to establish contact between health staff and IDUs, syringe vending machines appear to largely enhance access to sterile equipment, in particular to the hidden and high‐risk group of IDUs, who for several reasons cannot or do not use existing staffed NSPs. Vending machines that dispense Fitpacks mechanically may also help reduce unsafe disposal of used equipment. As these machines make services more accessible and acceptable to the users and complement other modes of NSPs, they are gradually gaining widespread acceptance in an increasing number of countries.