The disorders range from the taking of a drug of abuse (including alcohol), to the side effects of a medication, and to toxin exposure. In the DSM-IV-TR the Substance-Related Disorders are divided into two groups:
The Substance Use Disorder classified as Dependence can be applied to every class of substance except caffeine. Dependence is defined as a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating the individual continues use of the substance despite significant substance related problems. There is a pattern of repeated self-administration that usually results in tolerance, withdrawal and compulsive drug taking behavior. Where as abuse is a maladaptive pattern of substance use manifested by recurrent and significant adverse consequences related to the repeated use of substances. These problems must occur recurrently during the same 12-month period (as does dependence). Unlike dependence, substance abuse criteria does not include tolerance, withdrawal, or a pattern of compulsive use.
The preceding has been a very brief summary of “Substance-Related Disorders.” Please refer to the DSM-IV-TR for the specific criteria for each disorder and the specifiers, or the following Internet resources:
