African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 4 (13), pp. 1588-1590, Special Review 2005          
ISSN 1684–5315 © 2005 Academic Journals

Review

The relationship between drug abuse and microbial infections

INABO, H. I.

Department of Applied Science, C.S.T., Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna, Nigeria. E-mail: heleninabo@yahoo.co.uk.

Accepted 11 October, 2005

Drugs of abuse such as cocaine, opiates, alcohol, and marijuana among others alter the neuropsychological, pathophysiological responses as well as the immune functions. Studies have shown that there are correlative observations between the use of these drugs and increased levels of microbial infections among drug users. These correlations appears to have effects on the immune system and are receptor mediated, directly or indirectly. The numerous drugs of abuse and the attendant infectious diseases are discussed.

Key words: Drug abuse, microbial infections, immune system.