on the needle

on the needle

slang Currently using, intoxicated by, or addicted to intravenous narcotics, especially heroin or morphine. I assumed he was on the needle because that glassy, vacant look in his eyes. You can tell Tara's back on the needle again—she's been looking really sick and out of it lately.See also: needle, on

on the needle

mod. addicted to injectable drugs. (Drugs.) My sister’s on the needle, and I want to help her. See also: needle, on