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Citation
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Rahimi-Movaghar A, Noroozi A, Page K, Mohraz M, McFarland W, Malekafzali H, Malekinejad M. Iran. J. Psychiatry Behav. Sci. 2016; In Press(In Press): ePub. |
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Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Iran has a large population of non-injection opioid users potentially at risk of initiation of drug injection. We implemented a qualitative study to characterize the factors facilitating transition from non-injection drug use (NIDU) to injection drug use (IDU) and vice versa.
Methods: We conducted 42 in-depth interviews among purposefully selected groups of injecting and non-injecting drug users and health workers, in 2011 in Tehran, Iran. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and coded using OpenCode 3.6 software.
Results: The predominant factor for transition from NIDU to IDU was a high level of drug dependence. IDU decreased the cost associated with drug use by several fold in the short-term. The influence of other injectors, either by learning directly from, encouraged by, feeling coerced by, or identifying with a lifestyle was also mentioned as a causal factor in the transition to IDU. Pleasure-seeking or desire to experience an immediate rush were rarely reported; rather, themes of the need to maintain functionality, reduce pain, and overcome financial difficulties emerged. Vein damage and other IDU-related physical health problems, as well as pressure from family were reasons for reverse transition (IDU to NIDU).
Conclusions: New harm reduction approaches could focus on blocking the transition from NIDU to injection and promoting the return to less harmful routes of administration.
Language: en |