What are intravenous drugs?

Substances delivered directly to the bloodstream, so their effects are felt more quickly and with more intensity. This method is used in medical settings, as well as for injection of illicit drugs with a syringe. 

 

What risks come with injecting illicit drugs?

• Bloodborne diseases (HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, etc) from sharing needles or other drug preparation supplies
• Higher chance of dependency and, because of this, withdrawal symptoms when drug is not present
• Open wounds that can lead to infection, amputation, or other complications
• Seizure, stroke, and heart failure depending on injection site
• Societal ostracization due to visible signs of drug use
•  Overdose and/or death

 

Who is most at risk of using?

• Those prescribed with opioid drugs
  • 80% of current heroin users report having started by misusing prescription drugs
• Those suffering from mental illness
  • Around a third of people who die from overdose had a diagnosis
• Men have higher rates of intravenous drug use and death from overdose
  • This is only the case for people over the age of 15
• Anyone can suffer from a substance use disorder

 

How can I stay as safe as possible when using illicit intravenous drugs?

• Do not inject into the wrist, groin, head or neck
• Do not share or reuse any drug preparation/injection supplies
• Test your supply before using
• Know your tolerance: injecting more than usual can easily lead to overdose
• Disinfect injection sites before and after using
• Remain close/in contact with people you trust when using
• Know the signs of overdose and carry Narcan just in case

Sources

https://deserthopetreatment.com/addiction-guide/administration-methods/injection/

 

https://www.phila.gov/media/20220705104801/CHARTv7e1_u.pdf

 

https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/drug-and-alcohol-use/reduce-drug-overdose-deaths-su-03/data#group=Age%20group%E2%80%A0%20%C2%A7&populations=_amp_lt%3B18_years&data-table