Experiences of the changing illicit drug supply among racial and ethnic minoritized people in three US states: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Amidst a national surge in overdose deaths among racial and ethnic minoritized people and people who use stimulants (cocaine or methamphetamines), our objective was to understand how these groups are adapting to a rapidly changing illicit drug supply.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 64 people who use drugs and who self-identified as Black, Hispanic, Multiracial, or other Non-White race in three states (Michigan, New Jersey, and Wisconsin). Transcribed interviews were coded thematically.

Results

Most respondents used stimulants alone or in combination with opioids. Respondents perceived that the drug supply had become more unpredictable and dangerous but differed in their personal perception of risk and their adaptations. For example, re

SUBMITTER: Saloner B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11577715 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature