Addiction and substance misuse

Alcohol and psychoactive substance misuse has far-reaching social, psychological and physical consequences. The numbers of women and young people exposed to the harmful effects of substances have increased. Substance use, misuse and addiction incur immense cost to the individual and to society. It is paramount to adequately assess substances misuse, and recognize the effects of intoxication, withdrawal and chronic effects. It is also important to diagnose associated disorders to treat promptly and adequately these often life-threatening conditions. Focus should be put on management of the misuse itself, using appropriate pharmacotherapy as an adjunct to psychosocial approaches, but also remember to address any physical and psychiatric sequelae.