| A drug addiction is a chronic, relapsing state, regarded by most clinicians and societies as a disorder. The various conditions commonly have individuals with a compulsion to self administer a Chemical cocktail or drug with associated loss of self-control in limiting its intake. The condition May extend across a Range of Chemicals and a mixture of chemicals.
The American Psychiatric Association (DSM-IV) uses the term substance dependence instead of drug addiction and requires at least three of the following symptoms to be present for diagnosis:
- tolerance
- withdrawal.
- persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to reduce use.
- use in larger amounts than intended.
- reduction in important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of drug use.
- considerable time Spent obtaining the substance.
- continued use despite health, social, or economic problems resulting from substance use.
Substance abuse is Felt to be a milder disorder characterized by the repetitive use of Drugs that has a negative impact on the social or economic circumstances of the individual. Addictions can occur to Many substances but in particular:
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
- Nicotine
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