Medical Health Encyclopedia

Drug abuse

These include heroin, oxycodone, hydromorphone, meperidine, propoxyphene, and methadone. All of these substances, natural or synthetic, are considered narcotics. Used as pain-killers, these drugs produce an altered interpretation of painful stimuli, decrease anxiety, and promote sedation.

Because heroin is commonly used intravenously, the associated health concerns specific to IV drug use and sharing needles or using contaminated needles (such as hepatitis, HIV infection, and AIDS) must be considered.

STAGES OF JUVENILE DRUG USE

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There are several stages of drug use. Young people seem to progress more quickly through the stages than do adults.

• Experimental use -- typically involves peers, recreational use; the user may enjoy defying parents or other authority figures.
• Regular use -- increased school or work absenteeism; worries about losing drug source; uses drugs to "remedy" negative feeling; begins to isolate from friends and family; may change peer group to others who are regular users; takes pride in noting increased tolerance and ability to "handle" the drug.
• Daily Preoccupation -- loss of motivation; indifference toward school and work; behavior changes become evident; preoccupation with drug use supersedes all prior interests including relationships; secretive behavior; may begin dealing drugs to help support habit; use of other, harder drugs may increase; legal complications may increase.
• Dependence -- cannot face daily routine without drugs; continued denial of problem; deteriorating physical condition; loss of "control" over use; may become suicidal; financial and legal complications worsen; may have severed ties with family members or friends by this time.

TREATMENT OVERVIEW

As with any other area of medicine, the least intensive treatment should be the starting point.

Comprehensive residential treatment programs monitor and address potential withdrawal symptoms/behaviors; incorporate behavior recognition and modification programs; include psychotherapeutic treatments both for the person (and perhaps family) and in group settings; have a prolonged after-care component; and provide peer support.

Drug addiction is a serious and complicated health condition that requires both physiological and psychological treatment and support. It is important to have an evaluation with a trained professional to determine appropriate care.

CALL YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

• if concerned about the addictive potential of currently prescribed medications
• if concerned about possible drug abuse by self or a family member
• if interested in more information regarding drug abuse
• if seeking treatment of drug abuse for yourself or a family member

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