Introduction Several drugs and chemicals are known to be teratogenic to the human embryo when administered throughout pregnancy, especially during the period of organogenesis. The evidence for their teratogenicity has…

Introduction Substance abuse and dependence are considered significant problems in society, warranting identification and treatment. However, substance misuse, abuse, and dependence in older adults are complex issues that are often…

Introduction Substance abuse is being increasingly appreciated for contributing to overall mortality and morbidity in the United States. Yet, at the same time, substance use continues to be criminalized, especially…

Introduction Adolescent behavioral health problems are on the rise worldwide, particularly for impulse control disorders (ICDs) including substance abuse, delinquency, obesity, and HIV/sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) for genetic and environmental…

Introduction Stereotypes and judgments about people with substance misuse problems are extremely prevalent and negative. The content of these stereotypes varies, with examples including “people who use drugs are immoral,”…

Introduction Comorbid substance use disorders (SUDs) and other psychiatric disorders (dual diagnosis) in individuals who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are common. Prevalence…

Mechanism of Action Methamphetamine is an indirect monoamine agonist that increases intracellular and extracellular levels of the monoamine neurotransmitters, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Methamphetamine gains entry into neurons either as…

Acknowledgments The authors greatly appreciate the editing assistance of medical student Sean Doherty of Cardiff University School of Medicine. Historical Perspectives Psychoactive substances derived from botanicals have been used ritualistically…