Needle exchange rations syringes amid surge in Kiwis injecting unapproved peptides
New Zealand health officials are rationing syringes at needle exchange programs due to a massive surge in the use of unapproved injectable peptides. The Ministry of Health warns that users are engaging in a 'guinea pig culture' by purchasing unregulated substances online, which carry risks of contamination and long-term health damage.
Why it matters
The rise of unregulated injectable drugs poses a significant public health risk, highlighting the dangers of social media-driven health trends.
The number of people buying 1ml insulin needles through the NZ needle exchange programme’s online shop has more than quadrupled in the past year.
From January to June 2025, a total of 26,731 needles were purchased online through the scheme. In the same six months this year, 141,523 needles were purchased.
The massive increase has led to needle exchange services having to sometimes ration supplies, such as limiting clients to 6-10 syringes.
The spike comes as the Ministry of Health warns of a “guinea pig culture” with dire consequences, as a growing number of people purchase unapproved injectable drugs online without a clear understanding of what’s in them.
A Ministry of Health briefing to Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey, obtained by Newstalk ZB under the Official Information Act, warns that injectables known as peptides carry significant health risks.
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