Substance Use Disorders

Abstract

A substance is any legal or illegal psychoactive material used by an individual with the potential for producing negative social and health concerns. Substances may be medically prescribed (i.e., hydrocodone) or recreational (i.e., marijuana). Substance use, misuse, and use disorder are part of a spectrum as discussed below. Substance misuse can reasonably be considered a lifestyle problem that may lead to harm. Effective preventive measures exist that may significantly reduce this harm and associated cost. Prolonged, repeated use of any addictive substances at high doses or frequency (quantity/frequency thresholds vary across substances) may lead to Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Disorders can range from mild and temporary to severe and chronic [1].