Miscellaneous Article: PDF OnlyHarm Reduction ResourcesHelfert, Samantha MLS1; Mitchell, Andrea MLS2,1 Author Information 1Logicon/Row Sciences, Rockville, Maryland 2Alcohol Research Group, Berkeley, California Journal of Addictions Nursing: Volume 13 - Issue 2 - p 119-122 doi: 10.3109/10884600109062526 Buy Metrics Abstract A first time non-violent drug offender seen in a drug court is given an option for drug treatment instead of prison. Not only does this mitigate the consequences to the user, it also saves taxpayer dollars. Providing clean needles to drug users decreases the chances of spreading AIDS, and not just between drug users. Methadone maintenance helps people dependent on heroin to readjust to their lives, to enable them to work and live in more satisfying ways. © 2001International Nurses Society on Addictions