Substance Abuse Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Summary: The assessment of substance use in children and adolescents is discussed in the context of current global and local epidemiological data. Factors that differentiate adolescent substance use from that in adults, and common markers of addiction in this population are described. Management of common substance use disorders, including those related to use of alcohol, cannabis, inhalants, tobacco, opioids and psychostimulants are discussed. For each, investigations, monitoring and treatment options for various phases of the illness (intoxication, withdrawal, abuse or dependence) are recommended. The approach to associated conditions such as substance-induced mental illness and dual diagnosis are also laid out.

Authors: Navendu Gaur, Manaswi Gautam, Shubhmohan Singh, Siddharth Sarkar, V Venkatesh Raju

Year of Publication: January-2018