I injected methamphetamine in my ankle, now I'm in extreme pain. What can I do?

Injecting any drug into your ankle is a bad idea, especially so if it is methamphetamine. You really do need to see a doctor but if that isn't an option right now there are a few things you can try...

Is the site swollen? What could have happened is that you haven't entered the vein correctly, or have entered it but gone too deep and out of the other side.

If you have a miss like this, try the following:

• Apply a hot compress to the injection site as soon as possible. This will dilate the blood vessels and make the blood flow faster and move the drug which will have gathered in the tissue around the site. Massage with the hot compress for around 20 minutes.
• To remove the remaining swelling, apply an ice pack to the site for a further 20 minutes.
• The heat and ice should help significantly within 24 hours. If after this time you think it is getting worse, you should go to the ER immediately.

I know you probably want to stay away from doctors and hospitals but please seek advice if the above method does not help, as this is your life on the line and nothing is worth risking it for!