Overdose Among Heroin Users: Evaluation of an Intervention in South Australia

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Abstract
An evidence-based intervention addressing overdose among heroin users was developed and evaluated in South Australia. The intervention comprised three strands: information materials, peer educator training and achievement of structural change through the establishment of partnerships with user groups, police and ambulance services. Liaison with police and ambulance services resulted in new guidelines being developed for police attendance at overdoses. Pre- and six months post-intervention surveys showed an increase in awareness of risk factors associated with overdose including the concomitant use of other central nervous system depressants with heroin and using heroin while alone. Amongst respondents exposed to the intervention, more rang an ambulance to the most recent witnessed overdose and indicated less fear of police involvement if an ambulance was called. It is concluded that heroin users will respond to appropriate, targeted health education messages developed in conjunction with the user community and implemented using an intersectoral approach.