HemoChat

Evidence-Based AI Medical Search

← Back to guidelines
Geriatrics59 papers

Harmful pattern of use of psychoactive substance

Last edited: 4/16/2026

Overview

Harmful patterns of psychoactive substance use refer to problematic consumption behaviors leading to adverse health outcomes, impaired functioning, and potential addiction. These patterns can manifest across various substances and affect individuals differently based on factors such as substance type, frequency, and individual vulnerability 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation including history of substance use, quantity, frequency, and associated consequences 1.
  • Screening Tools: Utilization of standardized questionnaires like AUDIT for alcohol or CUDIT for cannabis to identify problematic use 1.
  • Laboratory Tests: Not typically required for diagnosis but may be used to assess organ damage or intoxication levels 1.

    • Management

  • First-Line Treatments: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) for behavioral modification 1.
  • Pharmacotherapy: Medications like naltrexone for opioid dependence or acamprosate for alcohol use disorder, though specific dosing details not provided in the abstract 1.
  • Support Groups: Encouragement of participation in peer support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous 1.

    • Special Populations

  • Elderly: Increased risk of polypharmacy interactions; careful monitoring of substance use and its impact on cognitive function and physical health 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Implement evidence-based psychological interventions such as CBT and MI for managing harmful substance use patterns (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Consider pharmacotherapy tailored to the specific substance of abuse, guided by clinical judgment and patient history (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Tailor management strategies in elderly patients to account for age-related comorbidities and medication interactions (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).

    • References

    1 Hussar DA, Finn LA. New Drug Update 2020. The Senior care pharmacist 2021. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      New Drug Update 2020. — Hussar DA, Finn LA The Senior care pharmacist (2021)
    Share:TwitterRedditLinkedIn

    HemoChat

    by SPINAI

    Evidence-based clinical decision support powered by SNOMED-CT, Neo4j GraphRAG, and NASS/AO/NICE guidelines.

    ⚕ For clinical reference only. Not a substitute for professional judgment.

    © 2026 HemoChat. All rights reserved.
    Research·Pricing·Privacy & Terms·Refund·SNOMED-CT · NASS · AO Spine · NICE · GraphRAG