HIV and Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Substance abuse has long been linked to the worldwide spread of HIV/AIDS. Sharing needles for the injection of drugs is one of the main causes of HIV transmission.

But there are many ways that substance abuse can increase the risk of transmission. People may use drugs or alcohol to deal with depression and the stress of living with HIV. Recreational drug use is not uncommon and may lead to risky behavior, such as unprotected sex, which also is a major cause of the spread of HIV.

Injecting steroids is also a common practice, often used by people to build up their muscles. However, steroid abuse can seriously affect your heart.

That is why substance abuse treatment is such an important part of HIV care. To receive the best care, it is important that you are open and honest with your doctor about your past and current use of drugs and alcohol. They can tell you if you are at risk for any other infection and, if necessary, refer you to a health care professional specializing in substance abuse treatment. Additionally, if you are already in a drug withdrawal program, your methadone dose may need to be adjusted before you begin treatment with antiretroviral medication.

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