Podcast #195: How to Properly Inject Heroin

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