EFFECTS ON BODY

Complications Due to Using Unsterile Needles

• Skin Infections

    • Infection of the skin and tissues underneath the skin near the injection site
    • Common features of an infection are redness, swelling, heat, pain, and tenderness of the infected area

• Hepatitis

    • Inflammation of the liver common in cocaine users
    • Chance of an intravenous cocaine user developing hepatitis is approx. 50% within the first two years of drug use

• Endocarditis

    • Infection of the heart valve that develops when bacteria enter the bloodstream through unsterile needles and are       deposited on       the heart valve
    • High fever and chills are common

• Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

    • Transmitted through needle sharing or blood to blood contact
    • 25-30% of all people with AIDS are intravenous drug users

Complications Caused by Adulterants

Effects on Mind and Body Main Page