Needle exchange programs offer sterile needles in exchange for used syringes as a way to prevent HIV and Hepatitis C infections in people who inject drugs. Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are also provided free of charge as an inexpensive drug testing technology which has been shown to be effective at detecting the presence of fentanyl in drug samples prior to ingestion.
Other services provided by needle exchange programs include confidential, anonymous testing for HIV antibodies, HIV/AIDS prevention education and materials, and referrals for drug and health treatment services.