IV Life

IV Life (also stylized as IV LIFE, IVL) is a lifestyle and subculture term primarily associated with intravenous drug use, particularly heroin and other opioids. It represents a way of life centered around the acquisition, preparation, and administration of injectable drugs, often involving specific rituals, paraphernalia, and social networks. The term can denote a strong attachment to this lifestyle and a prioritization of drug use over other aspects of life, such as personal relationships, employment, and health.

The term "IV Life" often carries a negative connotation due to the health risks associated with intravenous drug use, including infections like HIV and hepatitis, vein damage, abscesses, and overdose. It also frequently implies a cycle of addiction, dependency, and potential involvement in illegal activities to support drug habits.

The use of the term can vary depending on context. While some within the intravenous drug-using community might use it to describe their shared experience, others may use it as a cautionary tale or a critical label. Public health organizations and harm reduction advocates often acknowledge the term's existence while emphasizing the dangers and offering support for those seeking to break free from the cycle of addiction.

The term's appearance in popular culture, particularly in music and film, often portrays the harsh realities and consequences of intravenous drug use, although it can sometimes be romanticized or glamorized, leading to concerns about its potential influence on vulnerable individuals.