Disability income, cocaine use, and repeated hospitalization among schizophrenic cocaine abusers: a government-sponsored revolving door?

Article Abstract:

Many cocaine-abusing people with schizophrenia may spend nearly half of their disability income on illegal drugs, thereby worsening their symptoms, and increasing their rates of hospitalization and of homelessness. Researchers interviewed 105 male schizophrenic hospital patients about their income and expenditures on drugs. During 15 weeks following hospital admission the researchers administered weekly drug tests and psychologic interviews. Among the cocaine-users, the use of the drug, the frequency of hospitalizations, and the severity of psychiatric symptoms were greatest at the beginning of the month. The average participant spent almost half of his income on drugs, thereby decreasing what he could spend on shelter. The cycle of drug use seems clearly linked to the arrival of a disability payment at the beginning of the month.

Social aspects, Cocaine abuse, Drug use, Schizophrenics

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Staphylococcus aureus infections

Article Abstract:

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that normally lives in the nose, vagina, throat and skin of up to 50% of healthy adults. However, it can cause serious disease if it enters the bloodstream via a cut in the skin or a foreign body. The use of intravenous catheters has increased the number of staphylococcal infections, as has antibiotic resistance. The bacterium produces toxins and enzymes that can damage the body. Endocarditis, sepsis and toxic shock syndrome are some diseases caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Penicillin is the usual treatment unless the bacterium is resistant to it.

Analysis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcal infections

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Bacterial infections in drug users

Article Abstract:

Updated information on bacterial infections connected with drug use is reviewed and summarized. The study examines the association between the drug user, the chosen drug and the method of administration, which describes the nature of bacterial infections for which suitable means of prevention and treatment are recommended.

United Kingdom, Drug Addicts, Care and treatment, Prevention, Medical examination, Bacterial infections

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