A Comprehensive Review on Complications of Intravenous Drug Abuse

The misuse of drugs which are taken through intravenously have been a cause in youngsters which would lead to
major health disorders that could increase the morbidity and mortality rate to an higher ratio following
complications, infections and permanent health disorders. The introduction of mind-altering substances into
body through intravenous needle reports to addiction which is a source for unending complications causing
higher death rates. Certain drugs are injected into muscles, under skin or directly into the vein, where tack marks
can be seen which would be a sign for chronic intravenous drug use. Collapsed vein is the common effect due to
intravenous drug use. Cocaine, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, amphetamines, opiates and prescription drugs
are used among IV users. Prescription drugs are taken via injection illegally including barbiturates to
hydrocodone, consuming them for certain reason other than for what they are prescribed for and with altered
dose along with altered route of administration. Due to rapid onset of action the addicts prefer intravenous
method for induction of drugs into their body. Major complications could be faced by IV drug abusers which
includes severe blood-borne diseases, infections, abscesses, collapsed veins, increased chance of over dose since
intravenous administration has rapid onset of action which bypasses body’s detoxifying system. patient
Counselling remains as best treatment to addicts which would help them to get rid of the habit followed by the
infectious disease that are due to misuse of drug could be treated with appropriate antibiotics along with anti- viral drugs depending on the type of infection they have undergone. A comprehensive literature search has been
carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar, and articles pertaining to complications of intravenous drug use were
selected for review