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 antiviral 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.