A survey of drug dependence: Speciac reference to clinical dose dependence

Abstract

The magnitude of drug dependence and abuse problems has increased in recent years. In particular, problems related to stimulant drugs are said to have entered a third peak of abuse. Meanwhile, although most patients we encounter clinically are dependent on stimulant drugs and volatile solvents the types of drugs addicted patients depend on are increasingly varied. This paper discusses drug abuse and dependence on those drugs prescribed by doctors at hospitals' general departments, not drugs prescribed psychiatric departments or drugs sold over the counter at drug stores. The terminology of drug-related problems includes : abuse ; acute poisoning : dependence and chronic poisoning. These words should be accurately used and properly distinguished from one another. When we look at the dependence on sleeping pills, anti-anxiety drugs and tranquilizers, we are concerned mainly with bromides, barbiturates, non-barbiturates and benzodiazepine (BZ) that are used to treat insomnia or to reduce anxiety and pain. BZ-type drugs are widely prescribed because these are effective and safe when used as directed. When we deal with the dependence on these BZ-type drugs, we should separately discuss the following three different types of the problems : 1) high dose dependence; 2) clinical dose dependence and 3) the use of the drug along with alcohol and/or other drugs.