Q1. By what criteria do we say that a drug is being misused or abused?

The terms “drug misuse” and “drug abuse” are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different connotations depending on the context (medical vs. general public health). However, the core criteria revolve around using a substance in a way that is harmful or not as prescribed/intended.

Here are the key criteria:

• Use for non-medical purposes: Taking a prescription drug for recreational purposes or to achieve a “high,” rather than for its intended therapeutic effect.
• Using a drug without a prescription: Taking a drug that has been prescribed for someone else, or obtaining it illegally.
• Taking a drug in a way other than prescribed: This includes taking a higher dose than prescribed, taking it more frequently than prescribed, or altering the form of the drug (e.g., crushing pills to snort or inject them).
• Using illicit (illegal) substances: Any use of drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, etc., is considered misuse/abuse because they have no accepted medical use and are illegal.
• Continued use despite negative consequences: This is a hallmark of substance use disorder (SUD). The individual continues to use the drug despite experiencing problems in their life, such as:
  • Health problems: Physical or mental health deterioration.
  • Social problems: Damaged relationships with family or friends.
  • Legal problems: Arrests, fines,