7 Different Types of Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders (SUDs), previously called drug addictions, are mental health conditions wherein the individual exhibits a problematic substance abuse pattern, impairing their quality of life and health. These substances alter long-term brain functioning by releasing a neurochemical called dopamine, which is responsible for feeling pleasure.
Eventually, the effects of the substance wear off, and the body/brain wants to continue this “feel good” sensation—even if the result is unhealthy. Unfortunately, to receive the same high, the person needs more of the substance.
Substance use disorders can be mild to severe. Yet, no matter where you rank on the spectrum, the condition is fully treatable, and you can get help when you are ready at our Ontario addiction treatment centre.
Types of Substance Use Disorders
Clients receive a diagnosis based on the primary substance they misuse. However, many people misuse several different kinds of substances. In this case, it is labeled as a polysubstance use disorder.
1. Opioid use disorder
The opioid grouping consists of the following:
- Heroin
- Prescription pain relievers (oxycodone)
- Synthetic opioids (fentanyl)
- Codeine
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
- Morphine
Consequences
Chemically, these drugs are similar as they interact with the brain’s opioid receptors. They alter the brain’s functioning when repeatedly used by generating long-lasting hormonal systems and brain-circuit imbalances. These imbalances are not easily reversed.
Substances like heroin quickly produce tolerance and dependency. When the body becomes physically dependent, it adapts to the drug’s presence. Withdrawal ensues if the use is abruptly decreased. Effects happen within several hours after cessation. Withdrawal symptoms can include muscle and bone pain, restlessness, diarrhea, insomnia, cold flashes, and vomiting.
The withdrawal symptoms peak around 24–48 hours and typically decrease after one week. Withdrawal can also produce mood changes like anxiety, depression, irritability, and fatigue, which can persist for several months.
Treatment
There are approved treatments to deal with opioid use disorder. These include buprenorphine, methadone, and extended-release naltrexone. When combined with recovery support and behavioural counselling, individuals can recover from the disorder.
2. Alcohol use disorder
Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) arise when a person has challenges controlling their drinking despite experiencing negative consequences like job loss, poor health, and poor relationships. Severe AUD is a relapsing, chronic brain disease, causing compulsive alcohol consumption.
Consequences
Heavy drinking damages the liver, heart, and pancreas. It also increases cancer risk and decreases the immune system’s functioning.
Treatment
Treatment is provided in residential, outpatient, and inpatient settings. We recommend starting with outpatient treatments. Treatments should be tailored to the person’s needs and disorder severity, and an evidence-based approach should be taken. The best treatment for AUD is a combination of behavioural counselling and medications.
3. Stimulant use disorder
Stimulants make people more alert, energetic, and attentive. They elevate heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure. Stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine, and prescription drugs like Adderall, Ritalin, Modafinil, and others.
Consequences
Stimulants increase dopamine release, which is steady and slow. Dopamine is associated with movement, pleasure, and attention. When consumed using methods other than prescribed or in doses, the result is more rapid and stronger, generating euphoric feelings and increasing addiction.
Short-term effects are more activity, erratic or violent behaviour, talkativeness, and decreased sleep and appetite. Physically, it can cause heart attacks, disruptions in heart rhythm, and neurological concerns. Over the long term, usage can increase the risks of receiving infectious diseases.
Treatment
The most effective treatment is behavioural therapy (specifically, contingency-management intervention and cognitive-behavioural therapy).
4. Sedative use disorder
Sedatives are central nervous system depressants. This category encompasses sedatives, tranquillizers, and hypnotics. They are known to slow brain activity and are prescribed as a treatment for sleep and anxiety disorders.
Consequences
While long-term effects are unknown, sedatives can decrease breathing and heart rate. However, tolerance soon develops, and side effects lessen.
Continual use generates dependence and withdrawal symptoms if you abruptly stop. Combining them with other depressants like opioids and alcohol can further slow breathing and heart rate, which can become fatal.
Treatment
The only treatment is often lowering the dosage, which should be done with the assistance of a healthcare provider. Other treatments may include behavioural therapy.
5. Hallucinogen use disorder
Common hallucinogens in this group are:
- Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
- Ayahuasca
- D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
- Peyote
- Dextromethorphan (DXM)
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Ketamine
- Salvia divinorum (salvia)
Consequences
The long-term effects of hallucinogens are unknown. Research does indicate they disrupt chemical communication between the spinal cord and brain, and interfere with serotonin (regulates sensory perception, mood, hunger, sleep, perception, sexual behaviour, body temperature, and muscle control).
Repeated consumption of PCPs can produce effects that continue for over a year after cessation. Effects can include memory loss, speech challenges, anxiety, weight loss, depression, and suicidal ideation.
Treatment
No approved medications exist to treat hallucinogen use disorders. So far, behavioural and inpatient treatments have been used to combat this SUD. Yet, more research is needed regarding treatment for this disorder.
6. Marijuana use disorder
Also called cannabis, marijuana is the most commonly used substance after tobacco and alcohol.
Consequences
Smoking cannabis causes breathing issues similar to tobacco (such as phlegm, frequent cough, and an increased risk for lung infection). If consumed while pregnant, there is a risk of lower birth weight, with an increased risk of behavioural and brain issues in infants.
Furthermore, long-term consumption can cause mental illness, like increases in depression, social anxiety disorder, and worsening bipolar disorder and schizophrenia symptoms.
Treatment
Marijuana use disorders are like other SUDs with a less severe long-term clinical outcome. Treatments include contingency management, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and motivational enhancement.
7. Nicotine use disorder
Smoking and vaping affect all bodily organs. They can generate respiratory disorders, stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and other issues. Nicotine is an addictive ingredient, which is why people find quitting difficult.
Consequences
Smoking can lead to everything from pneumonia to cataracts. It generates 90% of all lung cancer cases and comprises one-third of cancer deaths. In addition to lung cancer, it causes cancer in the pharynx, mouth, larynx, esophagus, pancreas, stomach, kidney, cervix, and bladder. It can also result in acute myeloid leukemia.
Treatment
While some people can quit without assistance, most require help. Benefits occur within 24 hours of cessation, with decreased risk of heart attacks and high blood pressure. Medications to treat smoking include:
- Bupropion (for cravings and withdrawal)
- Nicotine replacement therapy (such as patches, gum, etc.)
- Varenicline
In addition to medication, mindfulness training and cognitive behavioural therapy are conducted over the phone, through online resources, and in clinical settings.
Contact New Dawn Medical to Discuss Your Treatment Options
At New Dawn Medical, our Ontario addiction treatment centre can assist you in breaking free of substance abuse. An initial assessment by one of our experts can help us tailor the appropriate treatments for your situation to take you down a positive path to recovery. We offer various types of programs, ranging from suboxone to methadone treatments.
Contact us at 1-833-456-DAWN (3296), info@newdawnmed.com, or fill out our online form to book an appointment.
