DVT (deep vein thrombosis)
Injecting into the femoral vein (or the veins of the leg) can cause a blood clot - a deep vein thrombosis - to form against the lining of the vein. These clots can be big and not stuck well to the side of the vein.

Signs and symptoms of a DVT forming include the leg becoming:

• Swollen
• Hot and red
• Sore (especially in the calf).

If they break off they can carry on up through the veins and get stuck in the lungs, causing pain, breathlessness and, possibly, heart attack and death.

So, anyone who gets these symptoms should call an ambulance.

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