Drug addiction has many negative consequences for the user and the people closest to them. One of many is the risks that users expose themselves to such as increasing their likelihood of contracting or transmitting viral infections.
Sadly, many people with an addiction to drugs do go on to develop a viral infection because they may either inject drugs and/or share needles with other users or, they may engage in unprotected sex while under the influence – potentially exposing themselves to a number of sexually transmitted diseases.
Due to their serious nature, the viral infections of greatest concern are HIV and hepatitis.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) damages the cells in our immune system which weakens our ability to fight everyday infections and disease. HIV can develop into Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) which can be life-threatening. Although there currently isn’t a cure for HIV, with an early diagnosis and effective treatment, most people can live a long and healthy life.
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. It’s usually the result of a viral infection or damage which has been caused by drinking excess alcohol. There are several types of hepatitis and while some don’t cause any serious problems, others can be chronic or cause cirrhosis, loss of liver function or cancer of the liver.
The relationship between drug use and viral infections
Viruses such as HIV and hepatitis are spread through blood or bodily fluids. This can happen when people share needles or other drug equipment or engage in risky behaviors such as having unprotected sex.
Not only can frequent drug use increase the likelihood of contracting a viral infection, it can also make HIV and its consequences worse – especially in the brain. Research has shown that HIV causes more harm to nerve cells in the brain and greater cognitive damage to those who use methamphetamine compared to those who don’t use drugs.
Drug and alcohol use can also directly damage the liver which increases the risk of developing chronic liver disease and cancer among those who are infected with hepatitis B or C.
Preventing viral infections among drug users
There are a number of ways that the drug addiction risks associated with viral infections can be minimized. Not using drugs is of course the most effective prevention technique but those who are at high risk of infection or think they may have been exposed, should take PrEP.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) involves taking anti-HIV medications which can help to reduce the chances of someone becoming infected with HIV by more than 90%. Among those who inject drugs, it can help to reduce the risk by more than 70%.
Other methods which can help to minimize the risk of infections include:
- Get tested regularly. If you know you are HIV positive or have hepatitis, you shouldn’t share needles with other users or have unprotected sex with anyone.
- Ensure you’ve had a hepatitis vaccination.
- One of many drug addiction risks is contracting viral infections. Educate yourself about what these are, how they’re contracted and how you can protect yourself.
- Warn others about the dangers of risky needle use and sexual behaviors.
- Ask your doctor or counsellor about syringe exchange programs. This will ensure that you’re only ever using clean needles which will dramatically decrease the likelihood of you catching or spreading an infection.
- If you have been exposed to HIV, take your PrEP medications. Missing pills makes them less effective, putting you at greater risk of developing HIV.
If you would like help for drug addiction in Toronto, please feel free to contact Toronto Trauma and Addiction Counselling in the strictest of confidence and we will be more than happy to help.
