Collateral Damage: A Narrative Review on Epidemics of Substance Use Disorders and Their Relationships to Sexually Transmitted Infections in the United States

Associations between substance use disorders and outbreaks of HIV and acute viral hepatitis have received considerable attention, but less research has focused on links between substance use disorders and sexually transmitted infections, apart from alcohol misuse. This narrative review describes the history of this public health crisis in the United States and direct and indirect effects opioids and specific stimulants have on high-risk sexual behaviors. We also review the epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections associated with opioids and stimulants in the United States and discuss opportunities for integrated interventions.

Automated summary

This narrative review discusses the history of the public health crisis in the United States, the impact of opioids and specific stimulants on high-risk sexual behaviors, and the epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections associated with these substances in the US. Opportunities for integrated interventions are also explored.