Millions of people in the United States live with substance use disorder (SUD). Abusing illegal or prescription drugs can change the way a person’s body and brain function, making it nearly impossible to stop using them.
Any drug abuse can cause severe, life-threatening harm. Intravenous (IV) drug use has additional risks. It is crucial to seek treatment at the first sign of IV drug use. Knowing what to look for can help you identify IV drug abuse and seek substance abuse treatment quickly.
This article will explore common signs someone is shooting up drugs.
- Commonly-abused IV drugs
- Signs someone is using injection drugs
- The effects and risks of using IV drugs
- Where to find comprehensive substance abuse treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with IV drug abuse or other substance abuse, you are not alone. Contact The Best Treatment specialists to explore our comprehensive treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What are Commonly-Abused IV Drugs?
Intravenous (IV) drug use delivers substances directly into the bloodstream. Some of the most commonly abused IV drugs include:
- Heroin
- Prescription opioids
- Methamphetamines
- Prescription stimulants
- Cocaine
People who inject drugs typically begin by injecting into veins in the forearms. Over time, people may move to other sites.
IV drug users generally choose discreet injection locations. They may want to keep their drug use hidden from others. They may inject drugs into areas of the body typically covered by clothing.
IV drug use is the most invasive method of drug use. People may choose this method because it delivers drugs directly into the bloodstream, resulting in the strongest, quickest effects. Some refer to this as the “rush.”
People who inject drugs may have a higher risk of overdose, dependence, and other severe complications. Generally, people do not begin using a substance by injecting it. Most people start using a drug in a less-invasive method, such as snorting or smoking.
IV drug use can indicate a serious drug abuse problem. People who use IV drugs require quick, intensive treatment to safely stop using drugs, manage withdrawal, and avoid relapse.
5 Signs of IV Drug Use
Recognizing IV drug use is the first step in getting help. People who inject drugs may have changes in their appearance, mood, and behaviors that can help others identify a problem.
Here are five signs someone is shooting up drugs.
1. Skin infections
Injecting drugs into the same area over and over again can cause serious damage to the skin and veins. Needle tracks–called “track marks”–are one of the telltale signs of IV drug abuse. Track marks may look like bruises or scars.
IV drug use increases the risk of infections and other problems, too. People may have ulcers, open wounds, abscesses, or scar tissue at the injection sites. Track marks and other skin problems are some of the clearest physical signs of IV drug abuse.
2. Appearance changes
Drug abuse can harm a person’s mental and physical health. Over time, the effects of IV drug abuse may affect the way a person looks. People may stop paying attention to their hygiene. They may experience rapid weight loss or gain weight quickly due to poor diet. People may wear dirty clothing, stop showering, and stop paying attention to their appearance.
3. Dressing differently
People with IV drug addiction may take steps to hide their drug use. They may wear clothing to cover up track marks and other skin issues. They may wear long sleeves or pants, even when it is warm outside.
If someone suddenly starts dressing differently or seems concerned about covering up at all times, it may be a sign of IV drug abuse.
4. Behavioral changes
Friends and family members may notice changes in their loved one’s behaviors that may indicate IV drug abuse. Some of these changes may include:
- Irritability or frequent mood swings
- Being secretive or sneaky
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Noticeable changes in energy levels–much more or less energy than usual
- Neglecting hygiene or not taking care of their appearance
- Becoming isolated or having a new group of friends all of a sudden
- Losing interest in the activities they once enjoyed
- New financial trouble
It can be stressful to see your loved one acting differently because of drug use. However, it is important to remember that recognizing a problem can be the first step in getting help.
5. IV paraphernalia
The presence of drug paraphernalia is one of one of the clearest signs someone is using IV drugs. Common IV drug paraphernalia includes:
- Cotton balls
- Burnt spoons
- Needles/syringes
- Lighters
- Rubbing alcohol
- Tourniquets
People who abuse IV drugs may take steps to hide these items. Finding them is a sign that someone is using IV drugs and requires help to stop.
Risks of IV Drug Abuse
IV drug use is hazardous. Using drugs in this way puts people at additional risk of life-threatening harm, including:
- Nerve damage
- Infection of the heart lining
- Bloodborne diseases
- Abscesses and skin infections
- Addiction
If you recognize the signs of IV drug abuse in a friend or family member, seek support and treatment as quickly as possible.
Find Addiction Treatment Now
If you or someone you love abuses IV drugs, you must seek treatment right away. Reach out to the specialists at The Best Treatment to explore our addiction treatment and support programs. Contact our intake team with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.