"Needle Freaks": Compulsive Self-Injection Drug Users
DAVID G. LEVINE M.D.1
1 Director, San Francisco Methadone Treatment Program, 3626 Geary Blvd., San Francisco, Calif. 94118
The compulsive use of hypodermic needles as an end in itself is illustrated two case reports. The author explains this behavior in terms of conditioning theory and psychodynamics and explores the possibilities for treatment. He notes that needle use is in many cases an important component in addiction to narcotics, a component whose significance should be recognized by those engaged in the treatment of addiction.
