Drug abuse is the nonmedical use of a drug that interferes with a healthy and productive life. Drug abuse occurs at all economic levels of society, from the wealthy to the impoverished, and among young people as well as adults. Any drug may be abused, including tobacco, alcohol, medications, and substances that give off intoxicating fumes. Drug abuse is often called substance abuse or substance dependence, which together are called substance use disorders.
Many young people begin to use drugs or alcohol to experiment with the pleasurable effects of drugs, to fit in with peers, or to try on adult roles and behaviors. Most people who experiment with drugs or alcohol do not become addicted. However, repeated use of nicotine, alcohol, and other drugs may lead to physiological and psychological dependence, commonly known as addiction. Withdrawal is the reaction of the body when regular drug use is stopped.
When a person becomes dependent, the drug becomes so rewarding that it may drive the user to continue taking it despite harmful medical or social consequences. Such consequences include poor motivation, impaired judgment and memory, personality changes, and disrupted family relationships. Drug abusers also may develop health problems such as hepatitis, AIDS, and other serious medical consequences, including death.
Drug abuse patterns vary throughout the world.
