35th AM (2024) - Poster Session-Complications of “Muscling” in Persons Who Inject Drugs

Complications of “Muscling” in Persons Who Inject Drugs

Pdf Summary

The research poster addresses complications associated with "muscling," or intramuscular (IM) injection, among persons who inject drugs (PWID), highlighting the health issues it poses, especially in rural and marginalized communities. "Muscling" is increasingly common as individuals face difficulties with intravenous (IV) access due to scarring and damage from repeated injections. Unlike IV use, IM injections provide a slower onset, lower peak concentration, and longer duration of effects, potentially easing withdrawal symptoms but introducing new risks. <br /><br />The study showcases cases from the West Virginia University Rural Family Medicine Residency's Street Medicine team, which provides healthcare to marginalized populations, including those who are homeless, in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Two patients, both long-term opioid users with poor venous access, resorted to IM injections, leading to abscesses requiring medical intervention. These patients faced significant complications: one needed multiple surgeries and skin grafts, with a hospital stay lasting 44 days.<br /><br />Risk factors for abscesses from IM injections include contaminated drugs or needles and polysubstance use. The abscesses can involve bacteria like S. aureus and require costly surgical and antibiotic treatments. Barriers to harm reduction, such as needle exchange restrictions and limited access to substance use treatment, exacerbate these complications, especially in rural areas.<br /><br />The poster calls attention to the need for understanding emerging trends in drug use practices, addressing barriers in harm reduction, and improving treatment options for vulnerable populations like the homeless. Enhanced education on safe injection practices and increased accessibility to harm reduction resources are crucial in mitigating these health risks.

Keywords

intramuscular injection

persons who inject drugs

health complications

rural communities

opioid use

abscesses

harm reduction

needle exchange

substance use treatment

safe injection practices

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