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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  • Unpleasant or painful symptoms when the abused substance is withdrawn.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.
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