A Comparative Study of Sociodemographic, Clinical, and Psychosocial Parameters Between Injecting and Non-injecting Opioid-dependent Males

Background: Opioid use disorder (OUD), particularly injection drug use (IDU), is on the rise and is associated with complications such as blood-borne infections, overdosing, and seizures, among others. Understanding factors distinguishing non-injecting opioid users (NIOU) and IDUs is essential for the development of effective prevention and management strategies. This study aimed to compare sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors between IDUs and NIOUs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care center in North India, including 100 opioid-dependent males (50 NIOUs and 50 IDUs). Sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial variables were assessed using structured interviews and validated instruments, including the Maudsley Addiction Profile, the severity of dependence scale (SDS), the high-risk behavior scale (HRBS), the sensation seeking scale (SSS), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), and the WHO-ASSIST. Results: IDUs had significantly higher histories of alcohol use, duration of cannabis use, and family history of substance use, and significantly higher scores on HRBS, BIS, and the SSS ( p < .05). WHO-ASSIST and SDS scores were comparable between the groups. IDUs had a substantially higher number of days of heroin use in the last month and days of conflicts with relatives ( p < .05). Mean duration of the transition period from NIOU to IDU was 4 ± 3.3 years. Conclusions: Family history of drug use, higher sensation seeking, impulsivity, and risk-taking behavior were found to be important factors related to IDU. Interventions targeting these factors are essential for preventing the transition from NIOU to IDU.