ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces seven commonly misused types of psychoactive substances, beginning with an explanation of what psychoactive means and how these substances might be classified. Mode of administration is introduced as a significant factor, as well. Several important principles of pharmacokinetics (how drugs work), psychopharmacology (tolerance, withdrawal), and polydrug use are presented. The substance types discussed in this chapter include: alcohol, sedative-hypnotics and central nervous system depressants, cannabis, hallucinogens, stimulants, opioids, and inhalants; prescription drug misuse is addressed where relevant. Each substance type is briefly described in terms of what it is, its actions, and some use/misuse statistics. The chapter goal is to provide an orientation for social workers and other professionals to better understand the nature of substances discussed throughout this handbook and which they may encounter in their work with individuals, families, and communities.
