Substance use disorder

Definition

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a condition where the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home. It encompasses a range of behaviors from mild to severe addiction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SUD often coexists with mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
2. Medications like naltrexone, methadone, and buprenorphine are commonly used in the treatment of opioid use disorder.
3. Anticonvulsant drugs can be used off-label to manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
4. The DSM-5 categorizes SUD based on the number of diagnostic criteria met within a 12-month period.
5. Harm reduction strategies can include needle exchange programs and supervised injection sites.

Review Questions

• What are some common co-occurring mental health disorders with SUD?
• Name three medications used in the treatment of opioid use disorder.
• How can anticonvulsant drugs be utilized in the management of substance use disorders?

Related terms

Naltrexone:

A medication used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids.

Methadone:

A long-acting opioid agonist used in maintenance therapy for opioid dependence.

Buprenorphine:

A partial opioid agonist used to treat opioid addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.