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Drug Abuse

- Summary
- About drug abuse
- Types and differences
- Risk factors
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis methods
- Treatment options
- Prevention methods
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Tahir Tellioglu, M.D., APA, AAAP

Diagnosis methods for drug abuse

Drug abuse may be determined during a physical examination that includes a medical history and list of medications. Visits to physicians are sometimes prompted by family members’ concerns about drug use.

Some questions physicians may ask patients regarding drug use include:

  • How often does the patient use drugs?
  • Has the patient missed school or work due to drug use?
  • Has the patient been criticized because of drug use?
  • Has the patient ever tried to quit taking drugs?
A patient may be given a urine or blood test to determine whether drugs are present in the body. Patients suspected of being addicted to drugs may be referred to a substance abuse specialist (e.g., psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor) for further evaluation and treatment.

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Review Date: 03-27-2007

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