This study successfully produced a prototype filter designed to filter bacterial spores from heroin samples. No or negligible amounts of active ingredients in heroin were retained by the PES membrane. This membrane had the shortest filtration time while efficiently removing bacterial spores. The most suitable membrane was polyethersulfone (PES). Efficient filtration of heroin samples was achieved by combining a prefilter to remove particles and a 0.22 μm filter to remove bacterial spores. To remove these bacteria, a prototype filter was designed to fit insulin-type syringes, which are commonly used by people who inject drugs (PWIDs). ResultsHeroin samples that were tested contained up to 580 bacteria per gramme, with the majority being Bacillus spp., which are spore-forming soil bacteria. Binding of active ingredients of heroin to different types of membrane filters was determined using a highly sensitive analytical chemistry technique. MethodsA prototype filter was designed and different filter membranes were tested to assess the volume of liquid retained, filtration time and efficiency of the filter at removing bacterial spores. These are, most likely, caused by injecting contaminated heroin, and our aim was to develop a filter that efficiently removes these bacteria and is also likely to be acceptable for use by people who inject drugs (i.e. In heroin injectors, there have been a number of outbreaks caused by spore-forming bacteria, causing serious infections such as anthrax or botulism. Further work could determine the prevalence of these techniques. It highlights areas of injection preparation that can be targeted in harm reduction information and research. The equipment chosen and the proportions of drug, acid and water used varied.Ĭonclusions This work indicates that the basic steps used by the sample of injectors were similar, but the details within each step varied. Heroin and ‘speedball’ injections were heated crack injections were not. Each participant used acid in the preparation. The steps to prepare injections were similar in the majority of cases.
The preparation of heroin, crack cocaine and ‘speedball’ injections was characterized. Results Sixty‐five injectors were interviewed at three needle exchanges. The preparation steps, materials and equipment used were recorded. This incorporated a semi‐structured questionnaire in combination with a practical demonstration of preparation of fake drug material. Methods A novel interview design was used. A better understanding would inform safer injecting research and practice.Īim To investigate the preparation of insoluble illicit drugs for injection with identification of the common procedures, materials and equipment used. There is little information in the literature examining the preparation steps in detail. To accomplish this, users add weak acids, for example citric acid, lemon juice or vinegar. They require conversion to a soluble form before they can be injected. Background In the UK, most heroin and crack cocaine is not soluble in water alone.