Substance Use Differs Between Club and Injection Drug Users

A recent study of club drug users and injection drug users in Victoria and Vancouver reveals diverse patterns of substance use between the two 'at risk' groups. Club drug users almost all report using alcohol (91%). The most frequently used illicit drugs reported by club drug users are cannabis (71%), ecstasy (51%) and cocaine (37%). Use of heroin, crack and crystal meth by club drug users is relatively uncommon. On the other hand, the illicit drugs most frequently used in the past month by injection drug users are: crack (87%), cocaine (69%), cannabis (62%), heroin (56%), and crystal meth (33%). Just over half of injection drug users consume alcohol.

Problems Experienced by Club and Injection Drug Users Related to their Illicit Drug Use

Both club drug users and injection drug users experience problems or harms related to their illicit drug use. The most commonly reported problems experienced over the past year for both groups are related to their financial position or physical health. Two-thirds of injection drug users report problems related to their finances and 60% experience harms related to their health. In comparison, 53% of club drug users report harms related to their health and 39% experience financial issues. The greatest difference between the two groups  is related to their legal standing. Approximately 31% or injection drug users experience legal issues related to their use of illicit drugs compared to 3% of club drug users.

Data: 2009 Source: AOD Monitoring Project