Drug abuse is the use of illegal drugs or the use of prescription or over-the-counter medications in ways other than recommended or intended. It also includes intentional inhalation of household or industrial chemicals for their mind-altering effects. Tobacco use and problem drinking are sometimes included in the definition of drug abuse. Chemical abuse and substance abuse are terms sometimes used interchangeably with the term drug abuse, or they may be used to refer to a combination of drug abuse and tobacco use or problem drinking.
Many drugs that are abused are also addictive; they cause cravings and a continued desire to use them despite negative consequences. Drug abuse can start in childhood and continue in adulthood. Studies of high school students indicate that approximately 42% drink alcohol, 21% use marijuana, and 3% use cocaine. Approximately 12% have used inhalants, and 20% have abused prescription drugs (Source: CDC).
People who abuse drugs may take them initially out of curiosity, to escape, to feel good, due to peer pressure, or for a variety of other reasons. Drugs can affect a number of different organs, and complications can result from damage to the brain or to other parts of the body. Other negative consequences often result from the effects drugs have on a person’s mind, as well as actions an individual may take while under their influence.
Treatment can be on an inpatient or outpatient basis, depending on the drug being abused, whether addiction is present, and whether there are coexisting health or psychological problems. Supervised withdrawal, also called detoxification (or detox), may be necessary if physical symptoms are common when the drug is stopped. Medications may be used to decrease cravings, counteract the effects of the drug, or to cause unpleasant reactions if the drug is used. Behavioral therapy is commonly an important part of treatment, providing skills, helping change attitudes and behaviors, and helping maintain recovery.
Seek prompt medical care if you think you might have a problem with drugs.
Treatment can be on an inpatient or outpatient basis, depending on the drug being abused, whether addiction is present, and whether there are coexisting health or psychological problems. Supervised withdrawal, also called detoxification (or detox), may be necessary if physical symptoms are common when the drug is stopped. Medications may be used to decrease cravings, counteract the effects of the drug, or to cause unpleasant reactions if the drug is used. Behavioral therapy is commonly an important part of treatment, providing skills, helping change attitudes and behaviors, and helping maintain recovery.
Drug abuse can have serious, even life-threatening, complications, such as drug overdose, alcohol poisoning, trauma, and suicidal or violent behavior. Seek immediate medical care for serious symptoms, including threatening, irrational or suicidal behavior; serious injury; respiratory or breathing problems; rapid, slow or absent pulse; chest pain or tightness; persistent vomiting; cold, clammy, or hot, dry skin; severe abdominal pain; seizure; or confusion or loss of consciousness for even a brief moment.
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