ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we will discuss (1) the basic conceptualization of the disorder; (2) an understanding of basic pharmacologic concepts relevant to substance abuse; (3) diagnostic issues and problems unique to adolescents; (4) intoxication, tolerance, and dependence, as they relate to the adolescent population; (5) drugs as reinforcers; (6) treatment strategies for withdrawal, reinforcement reduction or aversion development, and pharmacologic attenuation of craving; (7) pharmacotherapy of concomitant psychiatric disorders in adolescent substance abusers; (8) other concerns, such as teenage steroid use/abuse and the effects of prenatal exposure to alcohol, opiates, and other substances; and (9) alternative treatment options.
