Substance Use Disorder: Medlineplus Medical Encyclopedia 2/21/19, 1 54 PM
Substance use disorder: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia 2/21/19, 154 PM National Institutes of Health / U.S. National Library of Medicine Home → Medical Encyclopedia → Substance use disorder URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001522.htm Substance use disorder Substance use disorder occurs when a person's use of alcohol or another substance (drug) leads to health issues or problems at work, school, or home. This disorder is also called substance abuse. Causes The exact cause of substance use disorder is not known. A person's genes, the action of the drug, peer pressure, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and environmental stress can all be factors. Many who develop a substance use problem have depression, attention deficit disorder, post- traumatic stress disorder, or another mental problem. A stressful or chaotic lifestyle and low self- esteem are also common. Children who grow up seeing their parents using drugs may have a high risk of developing substance use problem later in life for both environmental and genetic reasons. Commonly used substances include: Opiates and other narcotics are powerful painkillers that can cause drowsiness, and sometimes intense feelings of well-being, elation, happiness, excitement, and joy. These include heroin, opium, codeine, and narcotic pain medicines that may be prescribed by a doctor or bought illegally. Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the brain and nervous system. They include cocaine and amphetamines, such as drugs used to treat ADHD (methylphenidate, or Ritalin). A person can start needing higher amounts of these drugs over time to feel the same e"ect. Depressants cause drowsiness and reduce anxiety.