Some harm reduction strategies promote switching from a more harmful addictive substance to a less harmful one. Examples include e-cigarettes (substitutes for combustible cigarettes) and methadone and buprenorphine (substitutes for opioids). These strategies are controversial. Advocates argue that individuals with addictions benefit by transitioning to a less harmful substance. Opponents contend that such strategies might encourage non-users to start using the harm-reduction method or even the original addictive substance. This paper builds on addiction theories to model the introduction of a harm reduction method, illustrating the conditions under which each perspective holds true.
