Makindo Medical Notes"One small step for man, one large step for Makindo" |
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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: The contents are under continuing development and improvements and despite all efforts may contain errors of omission or fact. This is not to be used for the assessment, diagnosis, or management of patients. It should not be regarded as medical advice by healthcare workers or laypeople. It is for educational purposes only. Please adhere to your local protocols. Use the BNF for drug information. If you are unwell please seek urgent healthcare advice. If you do not accept this then please do not use the website. Makindo Ltd. |
💊 Substance misuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription medications. It can lead to addiction (substance use disorder), physical dependence, and a wide range of health, social, and legal problems. Early recognition and appropriate management are essential to reduce harm and improve outcomes.
Substance | Signs & Symptoms of Misuse | Diagnosis | Management |
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🍺 Alcohol | Slurred speech, impaired judgment, liver disease, withdrawal (tremor, seizures, delirium tremens) | 🧪 LFTs, AUDIT tool, blood alcohol concentration | 💬 Counseling, detox (chlordiazepoxide taper), relapse prevention (disulfiram, acamprosate, naltrexone), support groups (AA) |
💉 Opioids | Drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, constipation, respiratory depression, withdrawal (sweating, yawning, myalgia) | 🧪 Urine drug screen, clinical history | 💊 Opioid substitution therapy (methadone, buprenorphine), naloxone for overdose, psychosocial support |
🌿 Cannabis | Impaired memory, anxiety, psychosis risk, red eyes, increased appetite | 🧪 Clinical history, urine drug screen | 💬 CBT, motivational interviewing, support networks |
⚡ Cocaine | Euphoria, agitation, paranoia, dilated pupils, chest pain, nasal damage (snorting) | 🧪 Urine drug screen, ECG (for arrhythmia/MI) | 💬 CBT, supportive management of withdrawal, treat cardiovascular complications |
💤 Benzodiazepines | Drowsiness, ataxia, confusion, dependence, respiratory depression | 🧪 Urine drug screen, clinical history | 📉 Gradual taper (to avoid seizures), psychological support, management of anxiety/insomnia without benzodiazepines |