DRUG ABUSE/DEPENDENCE

Drug abuse is the use of illegal drugs, or the misuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs, for at least a year with negative consequences. Drug abuse can lead to drug dependence or addiction.

• Drug dependence: a person needs a drug to function normally. Abruptly stopping the drug leads to withdrawal symptoms.
• Drug addiction: compulsive use of a substance, despite its negative or dangerous effects.

Drugs of abuse include opiates (opium, methadone), cannabis, amphetamine, ecstasy and cocaine. See also Controlled drugs

Drug abusers may present with a variety of dependence-related medical conditions. Seen in primary care, they may admit their dependence or may attempt to obtain drugs by deception.