Apr 26, 2017
Author: Don Stader, M.D
Educational Pearls:
- It is important for providers to know how to use IV drugs properly so that they can instruct their patients on how to avoid injury. Heroin use is increasing.
- Hepatitis, HIV and infection are possible complications of improper IV drug use
- The first step of heroin use is to dissolve the solid heroin in water using heat - a spoon and lighter are often used for this step. Next, the heroin is drawn into the syringe through a filter (cotton is often used).
- Heroin concentration often varies widely - counsel patients to test their heroin first.
- Sterility of the needle, water, cooker, cotton and syringe is paramount. Refer patients to a needle exchange program where they can get clean supplies.
- Hepatitis C can live outside the body for 4 days - NEVER share ANY supplies.
- Sterile procedure is important - needles should not be licked.
References: http://drugsense.org/flyers/10_tips_for_safer_use.pdf