title: Substance abuse: new numbers are a cause for action.
abstract: Substance abuse is a highly prevalent problem. Results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions show that about 1 in 10 Americans will have a substance use disorder in their lifetime. Pharmacists are critical professionals in addressing this problem; they will care for patients with substance use issues on nearly a daily basis. Prescription drug abuse is epidemic. Because substance abuse and dependence are complex problems and treatment requires a multifaceted approach, long-term treatment plans that often require psychotherapeutic and pharmacotherappeutic interventions are now being used. Armed with treatment guidelines and other available information, pharmacists need to play a central role. The results of this recent study are described here and suggestions for educational efforts and interventions are provided to help pharmacists address this national problem.
authors.forename: William A
authors.initials: WA
authors.lastname: Kehoe
mesh_terms: D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology
chemical_list: D013287:Illicit Drugs