HIV risk behavior in opioid dependent adults seeking detoxification treatment: an exploratory comparison of heroin and oxycodone users

Am J Addict. 2009 Jul-Aug;18(4):289-93. doi: 10.1080/10550490902925821.

Abstract

Heroin users are at high risk for HIV infection, but little is known about HIV risk in oxycodone users. This study examined HIV risk behaviors in heroin (n = 27) and oxycodone (n = 23) users seeking inpatient detoxification at a private psychiatric hospital. Drug use histories were similar, except oxycodone users used marijuana more frequently. Injection drug risk occurred exclusively among heroin users. The rates of sexual activity (66%), unprotected intercourse (69%), sex while intoxicated (74%), and sex with strangers (24%) were similar, but more oxycodone users had multiple partners (39% vs. 6%, p < .05). HIV prevention efforts should target both heroin and oxycodone users.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology*
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • Heroin Dependence / epidemiology
  • Heroin Dependence / rehabilitation
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Inactivation, Metabolic*
  • Male
  • Marijuana Abuse / epidemiology
  • Marijuana Abuse / rehabilitation
  • Middle Aged
  • Narcotics*
  • Opioid-Related Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Opioid-Related Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Oxycodone*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / statistics & numerical data*
  • Prevalence
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Sexual Partners
  • Unsafe Sex
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Narcotics
  • Oxycodone