The most commonly drug used intravenously is heroin; however, other drugs such as methamphetamines, cocaine, benzodiazepines and barbiturates can also be injected. When injecting a drug, the user usually feels the effects within 15 to 30 seconds and it produces a powerful high. When you think a friend or family member may be using drugs intravenously, watch out for specific signs, because this type of drug use can result in infectious diseases and death.
Responsibilities
Usually someone who is abusing drugs such as heroin will not fulfill his responsibilities at home, work or school. He might come to work late, not be able to focus and end up getting fired for not completing tasks. He could stop going to school and fail his classes. He may neglect his children, come home late on a regular basis and isolate himself when at home. Family members will probably notice issues immediately, but they may deny drug use at first because it's hard to conceptualize that a loved one is abusing drugs.
Finances
Someone who's abusing drugs intravenously will have to pay lots of money to keep up with the habit. She may steal from friends or family members, use all her family's life savings or participate in illegal activities such as prostitution to pay for the drugs. She may ask friends and family members to borrow money and make excuses for needing money. She could end up homeless or selling most of her possessions to pay for the drugs.
Self-Care
People who intravenously abuse drugs may stop taking care of their personal hygiene. If you notice that she wears the same outfit a couple days in a row, hasn't showered and smells, she may be abusing drugs. Another sign is if she normally spends time on her hair and makeup but now no longer finds these things important. These are also signs of depression. Either way, the person probably needs the help of a licensed mental health professional.
Physical and Emotional Signs
The person may have slurred speech, seem drowsy or overly alert and have needle marks on his arms or legs. He may seem irritable on a regular basis and snap at his friends and family members. He could become overly aggressive and hostile. Signs of overdose include shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, dry mouth, discolored tongue, weak pulse and muscle and stomach spasms. Immediately get the user medical attention if you notice these symptoms.
