Steroid clinic
For people who use Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs (IPEDs)
Thurs 4-7pm, 10 Washington Way, Christchurch
Cost $195 initial consultation and one follow up
Confidential, anonymous, judgement-free
Our steroid clinic provides a confidential, non-judgmental service for people who use, or are considering using, anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) and other image and performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs).
There is a significant unmet need for accessible, evidence-based healthcare for people who use steroids and IPEDs in our community. Many people don’t seek support due to stigma, lack of knowledgeable providers, or fear of judgement. As a result, people are often left to navigate health decisions alone, increasing the risk of harm.
Our service has been developed to address that gap. Led by an experienced Nurse Practitioner and a Peer Navigator with lived experience, we work alongside clients to provide a safe environment with a focus on harm reduction that supports people’s health and overall wellbeing.
Services offered include:
Safer injecting advice
Blood tests with results and interpretation
Harm reduction advice tailored to your use
Blood-borne virus and sexual health screening
Health checks
Side-effect monitoring
Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) advice
Access to sterile injecting equipment
WHEN: Thursdays from 4pm – 7pm (excludes public holidays)
WHERE: 10 Washington Way, Christchurch
COST: $195 (includes your initial consultation and one follow up)
This service is currently not funded. By attending the clinic, you are contributing to the evidence needed to advocate for sustainable funding and expanded access in the future.
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Our booking system requires details such as name, date of birth, and contact information. This information is kept confidential within our service and managed in accordance with privacy obligations.
We understand that privacy is a key concern for many people accessing this clinic. You are able to use alternative details (alias) if you do not feel comfortable providing your full or correct information.
Alternatively, you can phone 0276 344 604 or email info@nznep.org.nz to book an appointment or to ask questions.
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Alongside our service we will be conducting research with support from the University of Otago, Dr Jai Whelan – a drug researcher, and University of Queensland, Dr Tim Piatkowski, an expert in IPED research. Participation in the research is voluntary and choosing not to participate will not affect your care.
By accessing this service, you have the opportunity to contribute to this growing body of knowledge. Any information used for research purposes will be anonymous and handled in line with ethical and privacy standards.
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Q. What does the steroid clinic do?
The clinic provides confidential harm-reduction support for people who use or are thinking about using image and performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs) like anabolic-androgenic steroids. We offer health information, blood tests, health checks, and support without judgement.
Q. Do I have to stop using steroids to come here?
No. The clinic is harm-reduction focused. You can access support whether you are currently using, thinking about using, or stopping.
Q. Is the clinic free?
No. Currently we don’t have funding for the clinic so there is a fee of $195 which covers two consultations. The initial consult will involve a health screen including blood tests and the follow up consult will include results and interpretation.
Q. Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?
You will need to book an appointment to ensure you are able to be seen. This can be done on our online booking system www.disctrust.co.nz , phoning 0276 344 604, emailing info@nznep.org.nz or calling in to RWC in person.
Q. Will my information be kept confidential?
Your information is stored securely, stays within our systems and is protected under the Privacy Act 2020.
Q. Do I have to give my real name?
If you don’t want to give us your name, you can use an alias of your choice as a replacement. You will have to remember what this is so that we can match you in our system for any follow up information. Any information you give us is stored only on our system and is available only by our health professionals. It is not accessible to anyone outside our organisation.
Q. Will my GP or anyone else be told that I came here?
No. All your information is kept confidential and will only be shared with your consent. If there is a serious safety concern, we will seek your consent to share relevant information wherever possible.
Q. Can you tell me if the steroids I have are safe?
We have a drug checking service on site. The team can test your steroids while you are here. They are able to tell you if your steroids are what you expect them to be or if there is another substance present. Further testing via a laboratory is sometimes required.
Q. Can I get sterile injecting equipment here?
Yes. We can supply you with the equipment you need.
Q. Do I have to participate in the associated research to use the clinic?
No, the survey is voluntary, it your choice whether to participate or not. You can also withdraw at any time. It will not affect the service you receive at the clinic.
Q. What if I can't pay the fee?
Speak to us. We may be able to offer alternative options.