Drug Dependence
Definition
The body's physical need or addiction to a specific agent.
Virtually no difference between dependence and addiction
Common problem
Common Substances Causing Dependence
PCP
LSD
Heroin
Marijuana
Hallucinogic mushrooms
Smoking tobacco - cigarettes, beedies, marijuana
Injection heroin, morphine, pethidine
Depositing onto the mucosa of mouth or nose - Pan Parag - cocaine
Oral ingestion - alcohol
Athletes - anabolic steroids
Adverse Effects
Over a long term the dependence results in physical harm, behaviour problems and association with people who also abuse drugs
Stopping consumption leads to a specific withdrawal syndrome
Social problems : stealing, quarelling, economical problem, poverty, expenditure on enforcement agencies, loss to the family & community of his services
Pregnant women - birth defects, baby acquiring HIV/AIDS
Cirrhosis of Liver
Clinical Features
Change in level of consciousness
Decreased responsiveness
Bizarre behaviour
Agitated
Short temper
Inability to sleep
Abnormal vital signs
Sleepiness
Coma
Rape
Robbery
Chest pain
Gastritis
Amphetamines and cocaine - impotence
Treatment
Deaddiction therapy
Counselling
Group discussion
Change of friends
Joining suppor groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous
Prognosis
Relapses are common
