DRUG ABUSE & ADDICTION

General Information

DEFINITION--A compulsive and destructive use of mind-altering substances despite adverse medical, psychological and social consequences.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Central nervous system; liver; kidneys; blood.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--All ages, except early childhood.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS--

Depends on the substance of abuse. Most produce:

• A temporary, pleasant mood.
• Relief from anxiety.
• False feelings of self-confidence.
• Increased sensitivity to sights and sounds (including hallucinations).
• Altered activity levels--either stupor and sleeplike states or frenzies.
• Unpleasant or painful symptoms when the abused substance is withdrawn.

CAUSES--

Substances of abuse may produce addiction (a physiological need) or dependence (a psychological need). The most common substances of abuse include:

• Nicotine.
• Alcohol.
• Marijuana.
• Amphetamines.
• Barbiturates.
• Cocaine.
• Opiates, including codeine, heroin, methadone, morphine and opium.
• Psychedelic drugs, including PCP ("angel dust"), mescaline and LSD.
• Volatile substances, such as glue, solvents and paints.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Illness that requires prescription pain relievers or tranquilizers.
• Family history of drug abuse.
• Genetic factors (possibly). Some persons may be more susceptible to addiction.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Fatigue or overwork.
• Poverty.
• Psychological problems, including depression, dependency or poor self-esteem.

HOW TO PREVENT

• Don't socialize with persons who use and abuse drugs.
• Seek counseling for mental-health problems, such as depression or chronic anxiety, before they lead to drug problems.
• Develop wholesome interests and leisure activities.
• After surgery, illness or injury, discontinue the use of prescription pain relievers and tranquilizers as soon as possible. Don't use more than you need.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory blood tests.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Psychotherapy or counseling.
• Hospitalization for drug-withdrawal symptoms.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Sexually transmitted diseases, which are more likely among addicts.
• Severe infections, such as endocarditis, hepatitis or blood poisoning, from intravenous injections with non-sterile needles.
• Malnutrition.
• Accidental injury to oneself or others while in a drug-induced state.
• Loss of job or family.
• Irreversible damage to body organs.
• Death caused by overdose.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Curable with strong motivation, good medical care and support from family and friends.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• Admit you have a problem.
• Seek professional help.
• Be open and honest with your family and good friends, and ask their help.
• Avoid friends who tempt you to resume your habit.
• Join self-help groups.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe:

• Disulfiram (Antabuse) for alcoholism. This drug produces severe illness when alcohol is consumed.
• Methadone for narcotic abuse. This drug is a less-potent narcotic used to decrease the severity of physical withdrawal symptoms.

ACTIVITY--No restrictions. Exercise regularly and vigorously.

DIET--Eat a normal, well-balanced diet that is high in protein. Vitamin supplements may be necessary if you suffer from malnutrition.

Call Your Doctor If

• You abuse or are addicted to drugs and want help.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs in treatment may produce side effects.