Substance Use Disorder and Treatment Options

Substance use disorder (SUD) is an intricate condition that is characterized by an unrestrained use of a substance despite harmful consequences. Until the last few decades, it was assumed that those who struggled with compulsive substance use suffered from nothing more than a lack of willpower. Thus, these individuals were often stigmatized as “addicts” and viewed as having a moral deficiency or character flaw. However, advances in neuroscience have changed this perception. This course discusses substance use disorder, covering the Controlled Substance Act, drug classifications, and types of substances used. It also examines the symptoms of drug overdose, treatment options for opioid use disorder, and essential nursing considerations.