OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to identify, from the perspective of crack users, what are the strategies used to minimize or avoid the risks associated with consumption of crack. METHOD: A qualitative research method was used, developed through semi-structured in depth interviews. It was interviewed a criterion sample composed of 30 crack users, selected through key informants and distributed in eight different chains. The interviews were verbatim transcribed, entered and analyzed in NVivo 8 software. Data was analyzed by "content analysis" technique. RESULTS: Respondents believe that the greatest risks of dependence on crack cocaine are related to the psychic effects of the drug like craving, transient paranoid symptoms and depressive symptoms - and those stemming from the illegality of it, such as the police and issues relating to trafficking. However, the risk of physical complications of consumption has hardly been mentioned. The strategies focused on control of the psychic effects, mainly by consumption of alcohol and marijuana. To deal with the consequences of the unlawful drug they showed concern about how to relate to the dealers and police officers. CONCLUSIONS: The strategies developed by crack users are focused on trying to protect their selves against violence and to relief from unpleasant psychic effects - mainly craving and transient paranoid symptoms. These strategies may seem effective in the short term. However, showed long-term risks, such as alcohol and marijuana dependence.
Crack-cocaine; risks; behaviors; qualitative method; Sao Paulo/Brazil
