Applying the Infectious Diseases Literature to People who Inject Drugs

Abstract

People who inject drugs (PWID) presenting with injection drug use-associated infections are an understudied population excluded from most prospective infectious disease (ID) clinical trials. Careful application of the existing ID literature to PWID must consider their unique medical, psychological, and social challenges. Identification and treatment of the underlying substance use disorder are key underpinnings to any successful ID intervention.

Keywords: Antibacterials; Endocarditis; Harm reduction; Injection drug use; Opioid use disorder; Osteomyelitis; Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy.