Common Substances of Abuse

Abstract

Adolescent substance abuse remains common, with almost a third of adolescents admitting to ethanol use, and a quarter admitting to illicit drug use. It is essential for pediatricians to regularly screen adolescent patients for substance use, because early initiation of drug use has been associated with physical, behavioral, and social health risks. Adolescents abuse what is common and readily available; this includes ethanol, over-the-counter products, marijuana, and inhalants. The most common and effective clinical treatments for significant toxicity from substances of abuse is symptomatic and supportive care including hemodynamic support, respiratory support, and sedation to control psychomotor agitation.

Substance abuse among children

“…Any SA at early age is likely to interfere with normal development and may have an impact on the child's future [2]. Initiation of SA at an early age has been associated with long-term physical, behavioral, social, and health risks [3]. In addition, the recreational use of drugs is an under-recognized cause of mortality and morbidity in children.…”

Pediatric cannabis intoxication trends in the pre and post-legalization era

“…Cannabis is the most widely misused illicit drug by adults and adolescents [1][2][3][4]. According to a national report from the United States (U.S.), approximately 100 million adults have used recreational cannabis at least once, and an estimated 22.2 million (8.3%) individuals aged 12 years or older are current cannabis users [5].…”

High Social Capital is Associated with Decreased Mental Health Problem Among In-School Adolescents in Eastern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Therefore, exploring the factors associated with adolescent mental health is important from a life course perspective because it affects a nation’s human capital. 14 Studies from around the world have shown that factors such as socio-demographic, family factors, 15 risk behaviors, 16 biological factors, 17 exposure to violence and adversity 18 are predictors of mental health issues for adolescents. In addition, given the positive or negative effect of social factors on the mental health of adolescents, 19 critical investigations into these determinants in adolescent mental health are of the highest importance.…”