How is drug abuse defined?

The definition of drug abuse centers on the misuse of substances either by taking them in a manner not intended by the prescribing physician or by using them for non-medical reasons. This usage can manifest as taking a drug in greater amounts than prescribed or using a drug for purposes other than those it was intended to treat. This misappropriation of a drug often leads to negative consequences, both physically and psychologically.

In this context, using a drug in ways that deviate from medical guidance exemplifies drug abuse, which includes behaviors like recreational use, taking higher doses for intensified effects, or using medications meant for pain relief to achieve a sense of euphoria. Recognizing this definition helps healthcare professionals identify and address potential issues of substance misuse in their practice.

Contrastingly, using a drug exactly as prescribed focuses on adherence and proper utilization, which does not constitute abuse. Enhancing physical appearance can be a gray area, but it is not specifically tied to the concept of drug abuse unless it involves misuse of medications. Similarly, using a drug with alcohol can certainly be dangerous or lead to addiction, but this behavior does not inherently align with the broader definition of drug abuse unless it involves misusing prescribed medications for an unintended purpose.