Understanding why people switch from injecting to smoking fentanyl and methamphetamine

Determinants of transitioning from injecting to smoking fentanyl and methamphetamine and implications for harm reduction implementation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10951411

This study looks at why some people in the San Diego-Tijuana area switch from injecting drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine to smoking them, and it aims to understand their experiences and the support they need to improve services for those who use drugs.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10951411 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind the transition from injecting to smoking drugs, particularly fentanyl and methamphetamine, among individuals in the San Diego-Tijuana border region. By examining various factors such as personal experiences, peer influences, community resources, and local policies, the study aims to identify trends that can inform better service delivery for people who use drugs. The research will utilize a comprehensive framework to analyze these determinants and their implications for harm reduction strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who currently inject drugs or have recently transitioned to smoking drugs in the San Diego-Tijuana area.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use drugs or are not involved in the San Diego-Tijuana border region may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved harm reduction services and resources for individuals who use drugs, potentially reducing overdose rates and the spread of infectious diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding drug use behaviors and harm reduction strategies, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome VirusBacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.