[Harm reduction--on the paradigm changes in drug dependence treatment]

Until the mid 80's drug aid in Germany was characterized by the orientation towards abstinence as the decisive goal in treatment and advising of drug addicts which had to be reached directly. The process of change in psychiatry, the work of the Aids-centres and the international discussion about harm reduction have been taken into account in Germany more and more in the face of growing problems in the field of drug aid and increasing poverty among drug addicts. Harm reduction is orientated on the real problems and resources of drug addicts. The historical background and the future demands of harm reduction are discussed.