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Drug Dependence and Abuse

Drug Dependence and Abuse


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which specialist doctor should I consult for drug addiction?

A General Physician treats patients based on signs and symptoms, while a Psychiatrist provides counseling for addiction and behavioral changes.

2. What are the drugs used for abuse and dependence?

Commonly used drugs for abuse and dependence are opioids like heroin and morphine, sedatives including barbiturates and Valium, stimulants like amphetamine and cocaine, hallucinogens like LSD and PCP, volatile hydrocarbons like gasoline and paint thinner, cannabinoids like marijuana and hashish, and finally, alcohol(2 Trusted Source
Substance Abuse

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).

3. What are the characteristics of drug dependence?

When someone is using drugs, you might notice risky behaviors like driving dangerously or neglecting responsibilities. Physical changes, such as red eyes or strange smells, could also be signs. Changes in behavior, like doing poorly in school or acting secretively, and psychological shifts, like sudden mood swings or feeling anxious, may indicate drug use(5 Trusted Source
Warning Signs of Drug Abuse

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).

4. What is drug dependence for Adolescence?

Teenagers may try drugs and alcohol during adolescence due to temptations. Common substances include alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis. Excessive use can harm development, lead to accidents, suicide, or overdose, and increase the risk of HIV/AIDS. To prevent this, laws, education, and support for parents and young people are essential(11 Trusted Source
Children and addictions (drugs, alcohol...)

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).

5. When is World Drug Day followed?

June 26th is World Drug Day, dedicated to raising awareness about the global issue of drug abuse. Individuals and organizations come together to promote a world free of drugs and highlight the negative consequences they have on society(12 Trusted Source
People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention

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, 13 Trusted Source
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

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).

6. What is a substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable mental illness where people lose control over their use of substances like drugs, alcohol, or medications. This can range from mild to severe, with addiction being the most extreme form(14 Trusted Source
Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders

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).

7. What are Psychoactive drugs?

Psychoactive drugs are substances that can change how your mind works, like how you see things or feel. This group includes things like alcohol and nicotine. Just because a substance is psychoactive doesn't always mean it causes dependence, and people often refer to it simply as "substance use" or "drug use"(15 Trusted Source
Drugs (psychoactive)

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).

8. What is Drug Dependence Treatment Centre?

AIIMS's National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), which opened in 1988, serves advanced treatment for drug and substance abuse. It has been operating in Ghaziabad since 2003, providing treatment, conducting research, and contributing to policy creation, with accomplishments including WHO recognition and addiction psychiatry teaching programs. The center treats hundreds of patients each year, provides numerous treatment methods, and is involved in capacity building, research, and policy planning.

9. What is alcohol dependence?

Drinking too much alcohol can make you dependent, causing withdrawal symptoms when you try to cut down. These symptoms, like anxiety, increase the risk of going back to heavy drinking, but researchers are exploring medicines to help control it(16 Trusted Source
Alcohol Dependence, Withdrawal, and Relapse

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).

10. What are the different classifications of drugs used for abuse and dependence?

Opioids, hypnotics and sedatives, cannabinoids, hallucinogens, alcohol, and volatile hydrocarbons are the classes of drugs used for abuse(2 Trusted Source
Substance Abuse

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).
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