Profile of injectable opioid users in a tertiary care hospital

Introduction. The global burden of opioid misuse has been increasing, with injectable opioid users (IOUs) facing heightened risks of infectious diseases, overdose, and psychiatric disorders. In Telangana, India, opioid dependence is a growing challenge, with limited regional research on the demographic and clinical profiles of IOUs. This study aims to analyze the demographic characteristics, co-morbid substance use, and health conditions of IOUs attending an Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) center in a tertiary care hospital in Telangana. Material and methods. This retrospective observational study reviewed case records of 200 patients under­going OST at Gandhi Hospital between January 2024 and August 2024. Data were collected on demographic factors, substance use history, and co-morbid conditions. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests and logistic regression, were conducted to assess associations between demographic variables and substance use patterns. Results. The study population had a mean age of 40 years, with males constituting 61.23%. A significant proportion belonged to lower socioeconomic backgrounds (41.11%). Co-morbid substance use was prevalent, with high usage of alcohol (21.40 days/month), tobacco (28.91 days/month), and benzodiazepines (8.76 days/month). Mental health disorders were common, with 29% experiencing depression and 48% anxiety. Logistic regression indicated that higher education and employment reduced the risk of co-morbid substance use. OST treatment for more than 12 months was associated with an 86.14% recovery rate, while dropouts were primarily due to relapse (28.62%) and lack of family support (15.37%). Methadone (78.12% effectiveness) slightly outperformed buprenorphine (71.73%). Conclusion. This study shows the need for targeted interventions addressing socio-economic disparities, mental health support, and long-term OST adherence. Education and employment play critical roles in reducing substance co-morbidities. Strengthening harm reduction strategies, community-based interventions, and psychiatric care integration into opioid treatment programs is essential for improving outcomes among IOUs. Future research should explore long-term follow-ups and relapse prevention strategies.