A Narrative Review of Harm Reduction Interventions for Women and Gender Minority Individuals Who Use Drugs

The author synthesizes outcomes of harm reduction interventions designed for women and gender minority individuals who use drugs. PubMed and PsycInfo databases were searched for interventions designed for these groups. Gender-responsive harm reduction programs, with particular attention to overlapping drug use and sexual health risks, have been shown to promote positive health outcomes. Studies of harm reduction interventions should prioritize women and gender minority populations, and clinicians should consider the multifaceted experiences of stigma, criminalization, and violence that affect these groups. Provision of mental health care and harm reduction services should aim to meet these needs as clinicians engage their patients in appropriate services.