Misused Drugs

Understanding Misused Drugs

• Misused drugs refer to substances that are consumed in a manner, dosage, or frequency that strays from medically recommended use.
• These drugs are often psychoactive, meaning they alter brain function, leading to changes in perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, or behaviour.
• Misused drugs can include legal substances, such as alcohol and tobacco, prescription drugs, such as painkillers or sedatives, and illegal drugs, such as cannabis, cocaine, or heroin.

Effects of Misused Drugs

• Chronic misuse of drugs can lead to both physical and psychological health problems, including heart disease, lung disease, mental health disorders, and potentially fatal overdoses.
• These substances can also lead to addiction, often characterised by a compulsive desire to continue taking the drug despite harmful consequences.
• Behavioural changes such as increased aggressiveness, hallucinations, or impaired judgement may result from drug misuse.

Societal Impact of Misused Drugs

• Misused drugs can have significant societal impact, contributing to crime, domestic violence, and work-related accidents.
• It also puts a heavy burden on healthcare systems due to the need for treatment and rehabilitation of individuals suffering from addiction or other drug-related health issues.
• Besides, drug misuse can cause lost productivity, absenteeism, and accidents in the workplace.

Prevention and Treatment of Drug Misuse

• Preventive measures include public education about the harm of drug misuse, regulating access to certain drugs, and providing resources for mental health care.
• Treatment options for those suffering from drug addiction include therapy, medication, and support groups. This is often referred to as rehabilitation.
• Detoxification is usually the first step in treatment, followed by behavioural counselling and long-term follow-up to prevent relapse.

Government Control on Misused Drugs

• Drugs, both legal and illegal, are regulated under drug policy laws. These laws classify drugs into categories according to their abuse potential and their medicinal value.
• The classification defines the legality of possession, supply, and production of these drugs, with penalties varying based on the class of the drug.
• However, legislation and enforcement alone have proven insufficient to curb drug misuse, highlighting the need for comprehensive approaches including public education and access to treatment.