drug research paper topics

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• A Research Guide
• Research Paper Topics
• 40 Drug Abuse & Addiction Research Paper Topics

40 Drug Abuse & Addiction Research Paper Topics

Drug Abuse and Sociology

Drug abuse and medicine, drug abuse and psychology.

• Drug abuse and the degradation of neuron cells
• The social aspects of the drug abuse. The most vulnerable categories of people
• Drugs and religion. Drug abuse as the part of the sacred rituals
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
• Drug abuse as the part of human trafficking and as psychological defence of victims
• Reversible and irreversible consequences of drug abuse
• Drug abuse and minors
• Ethnic and cultural traditions that may lead to drug abuse
• Medical marijuana. Can legalizing it lead to drug abuse?
• The ethical questions of abusing painkiller drugs or other drugs that ease the state of a person
• The “club culture”. May it enhance the danger of drug abuse?
• Preventing drug abuse. Mandatory examination or voluntary learning: what will help most?
• The abstinence after the drug abuse. Rehabilitation and resocialization of the victims of it
• The harm done by drug abuse to the family and social relations
• The types of drugs and the impact of their abuse to the human body
• The positive effects of drugs. May they be reached without drawbacks of drug abuse?
• Alcoholics Anonymous, similar organisations and their role in overcoming the dependency
• Is constant smoking a drug abuse? Quitting smoking: government and social decisions
• Exotic addictions: game addiction, porn addiction etc. Do they have the effects similar to drug abuse?
• Substance abuse during pregnancy and before conceiving. What additional harm it causes?
• The correlation between drugs and spreading of HIV/AIDS
• Drug abuse and crime rates
• History of drug abuse. Opium houses, heroin cough syrup and others
• Drunk driving and drunk violence. The indirect victims of alcohol abuse
• The social rejection of the former drug abusers and the way to overcome it
• The main causes of drug abuse in the different social groups
• Drug abuse and mental health
• LGBTQ+ and drug abuse
• The development of drug testing. The governmental implementation of it
• Geniuses and drug abuse. Did drugs really helped them to create their masterpieces?
• Shall the laws about drug abuse be changed?
• Health Care Information Technology
• Drug abuse and global health throughout the 20-21 centuries
• Personal freedom or the safety of society: can drugs be allowed for personal use?
• Legal drinking age in different countries and its connection to the cultural diversity
• The different attitude to drugs and drug abuse in the different countries. Why it differs so much?
• Teenage and college culture. Why substance abuse is considered to be cool?
• Drugs, rape and robbery. Drugging people intentionally as the way to prevent them defending themselves
• 12-Step Programs and their impact on healing the drug addiction
• Alcohol, tobacco and sleeping pills advertising. Can it lead to more drug abuse?

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Substance Use Disorders and Addiction: Mechanisms, Trends, and Treatment Implications

Information & authors, metrics & citations, view options, insights into mechanisms related to cocaine addiction using a novel imaging method for dopamine neurons, treatment implications of understanding brain function during early abstinence in patients with alcohol use disorder, relatively low amounts of alcohol intake during pregnancy are associated with subtle neurodevelopmental effects in preadolescent offspring, increased comorbidity between substance use and psychiatric disorders in sexual identity minorities, trends in nicotine use and dependence from 2001–2002 to 2012–2013, conclusions, information, published in.

• Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
• Addiction Psychiatry
• Transgender (LGBT) Issues

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CONTENT TYPES

Hot Topics in Pharmaceutical Research

In this virtual issue, we highlight some of the most impactful recent articles in the journal as reflected by citations in 2022. Highly cited articles provide insight into which research topics are attracting the most attention and reflect innovative new discoveries, or timely reviews and perspectives on areas of contemporary interest. An accompanying editorial by the Editor-in-Chief introduces the issue.

Virtual Collections

Published research on topics of current scientific interest.

In this Virtual Issue:

Covid and rna delivery, nanoparticle drug delivery, polymer-based systems, mechanistic studies, sub-category, highly cited articles in molecular pharmaceutics : hot topics in pharmaceutical research.

• Lynne S. Taylor *

This publication is free to access through this site. Learn More

COVID-19 Transmission, Current Treatment, and Future Therapeutic Strategies

• Vrishali S. Salian
• Jessica A. Wright
• Peter T. Vedell
• Sanjana Nair
• Mahathi Kandimalla
• Xiaojia Tang
• Eva M. Carmona Porquera
• Krishna R. Kalari
• , and 
• Karunya K. Kandimalla *

The Effect of Size and Charge of Lipid Nanoparticles Prepared by Microfluidic Mixing on Their Lymph Node Transitivity and Distribution

• Takashi Nakamura *
• Minori Kawai
• Yusuke Sato
• Masatoshi Maeki
• Manabu Tokeshi
• Hideyoshi Harashima *

Nanomedicine-Based Approaches for mRNA Delivery

• Satoshi Uchida
• Federico Perche
• Chantal Pichon
• Horacio Cabral *

Intranasal Delivery and Transfection of mRNA Therapeutics in the Brain Using Cationic Liposomes

• Harkiranpreet Kaur Dhaliwal
• Yingfang Fan
• Jonghan Kim
• Mansoor M. Amiji *

Lipid-Based Nanoparticles for Delivery of Vaccine Adjuvants and Antigens: Toward Multicomponent Vaccines

• Despo Chatzikleanthous
• Derek T. O’Hagan
• Roberto Adamo *

This publication is Open Access under the license indicated. Learn More

siRNA Therapeutics for the Therapy of COVID-19 and Other Coronaviruses

• Muhammad Imran Sajid
• Muhammad Moazzam
• Sandeep Lohan
• Rakesh K. Tiwari *

The Uniqueness of Albumin as a Carrier in Nanodrug Delivery

• Alessandra Spada
• Jaber Emami *
• Jack A. Tuszynski
• Afsaneh Lavasanifar *

Engineered Human Adipose Stem-Cell-Derived Exosomes Loaded with miR-21-5p to Promote Diabetic Cutaneous Wound Healing

• Junfeng Deng
• Yizhen Wang

Nanomedicine in Healing Chronic Wounds: Opportunities and Challenges

• Shahriar Sharifi
• Mohammad Javad Hajipour
• Morteza Mahmoudi *

Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery System: The Magic Bullet for the Treatment of Chronic Pulmonary Diseases

• Sheersha Pramanik *
• Sourav Mohanto
• Rahul R. Rajendran
• Sijo Joy Edapully
• Triveni Patil

In Vitro and In Vivo Comparison of Curcumin-Encapsulated Chitosan-Coated Poly(lactic- co -glycolic acid) Nanoparticles and Curcumin/Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes Administered Intranasally as Therapeutic Strategies for Alzheimer’s Disease

• Ling Rong Wong
• Paul Chi-Lui Ho *

Recent Advances in Microfluidics for the Preparation of Drug and Gene Delivery Systems

• Mhd Anas Tomeh
•  and 
• Xiubo Zhao *

Bilirubin Nanomedicines for the Treatment of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-Mediated Diseases

• Zhejie Chen
• Chi Teng Vong
• Caifang Gao
• Shiyun Chen
• Shengpeng Wang *
• Yitao Wang *

Treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Is Enhanced When Norcantharidin Is Encapsulated in Exosomes Derived from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells

• Ying Wang *

Design and Validation of Liposomal ApoE2 Gene Delivery System to Evade Blood–Brain Barrier for Effective Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease

• Sanjay Arora
• Buddhadev Layek
• Jagdish Singh *

Ligand-Modified Erythrocyte Membrane-Cloaked Metal–Organic Framework Nanoparticles for Targeted Antitumor Therapy

• Yuping Zhong
• Yongda Chen
• Guoping Chen
• Jiaxian Zhang
• Chunhua Zhou
• Yangwen Sun
• Zhiyong Xie
• Qiongfeng Liao *

Smart Responsive Quercetin-Conjugated Glycol Chitosan Prodrug Micelles for Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

• Cuiyun Shen
• Luqing Zhao
• Jiaxin Tian
• Rong Zeng *
• Renzhong Qiao *

Combining Gemcitabine-Loaded Macrophage-like Nanoparticles and Erlotinib for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy

• Hongqiao Cai
• Ruobing Wang
• Xingren Guo
• Yahui Liu *

Synergistic Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Brain Metastases via Paclitaxel-Loaded Oleanolic Acid Nanoparticles

• Shenqi Zhang
• Zeming Chen
• Ann T. Chen
• Jiangbing Zhou
• Zhi-Qiang Yu
• Guangyu Yao *
• Jianjun Chen *

Characterizing Different Probiotic-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as a Novel Adjuvant for Immunotherapy

• Masaki Morishita *
• Maho Horita
• Ayaka Higuchi
• Hidemasa Katsumi
• Akira Yamamoto

Ophthalmic Nanoemulsions: From Composition to Technological Processes and Quality Control

• Agnieszka Gawin-Mikołajewicz
• Karol P. Nartowski *
• Aleksandra J. Dyba
• Anna M. Gołkowska
• Katarzyna Malec
• Bożena Karolewicz *

Hyaluronic Acid-Coated Camptothecin Nanocrystals for Targeted Drug Delivery to Enhance Anticancer Efficacy

• Nazim Muhammad
• Tongtong Li
• Bingnan Liu
• Honglei Zhan *

Edaravone-Loaded Macrophage-Derived Exosomes Enhance Neuroprotection in the Rat Permanent Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model of Stroke

• Liang Zhao *
• Yijie Shi *
• Jia Liang *

Celastrol-Loaded Galactosylated Liposomes Effectively Inhibit AKT/c-Met-Triggered Rapid Hepatocarcinogenesis in Mice

• Xinyan Chen
• Xianxian Hu
• Zhenpeng Qiu
• Guohua Zheng *

Intranasal Delivery of Temozolomide-Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Anti-EphA3 for Glioblastoma Targeting

• Liangxiao Wang
• Shengnan Tang
• Aiping Wang *
• Nuannuan Li
• Chunjie Sha
• Kaoxiang Sun
• Youxin Li *

Hydrophilic and Electroneutral Nanoparticles to Overcome Mucus Trapping and Enhance Oral Delivery of Insulin

• Jingxin Gou
• Haibing He *
• Xing Tang *

Hydrogel-Based Controlled Drug Delivery for Cancer Treatment: A Review

• Chengjun Song
• Yiqiao Hu *
• Jinhui Wu *

Development of Hydrogels with Self-Healing Properties for Delivery of Bioactive Agents

• Wing-Fu Lai *

Novel DEK-Targeting Aptamer Delivered by a Hydrogel Microneedle Attenuates Collagen-Induced Arthritis

• Jingjing Su
• Mengchen An
• Nan Zhang *
• Yongxing Zhao *

ICG/ l -Arginine Encapsulated PLGA Nanoparticle-Thermosensitive Hydrogel Hybrid Delivery System for Cascade Cancer Photodynamic-NO Therapy with Promoted Collagen Depletion in Tumor Tissues

• Zhiting Sun
• Xiaoxiao Wang
• Zhihong Wang
• Weiwei Wang
• Deling Kong *
• Xigang Leng *

MTX-Loaded Dual Thermoresponsive and pH-Responsive Magnetic Hydrogel Nanocomposite Particles for Combined Controlled Drug Delivery and Hyperthermia Therapy of Cancer

• Aylar Najafipour
• Ali Gharieh
• Afshin Fassihi
• Hojjat Sadeghi-Aliabadi
• Ali Reza Mahdavian *

Electrospun PVP-Core/PHBV-Shell Fibers to Eliminate Tailing Off for an Improved Sustained Release of Curcumin

• Xiaohong Chen
• Deng-Guang Yu

Poly(caprolactone)-Based Coatings on 3D-Printed Biodegradable Implants: A Novel Strategy to Prolong Delivery of Hydrophilic Drugs

• Sarah A. Stewart
• Juan Domínguez-Robles
• Victoria J. McIlorum
• Zoilo Gonzalez
• Emilia Utomo
• Elena Mancuso
• Dimitrios A. Lamprou
• Ryan F. Donnelly
• Eneko Larrañeta *

Congruent Release of Drug and Polymer from Amorphous Solid Dispersions: Insights into the Role of Drug-Polymer Hydrogen Bonding, Surface Crystallization, and Glass Transition

• Sugandha Saboo
• Umesh S. Kestur
• Daniel P. Flaherty

Drug Release and Nanodroplet Formation from Amorphous Solid Dispersions: Insight into the Roles of Drug Physicochemical Properties and Polymer Selection

• Ruochen Yang
• Amanda K. P. Mann
• Tu Van Duong
• James D. Ormes
• Grace A. Okoh
• Andre Hermans

Potential Roles of the Glass Transition Temperature of PLGA Microparticles in Drug Release Kinetics

• Kinam Park *
• Andrew Otte
• Farrokh Sharifi
• John Garner
• Sarah Skidmore
• Haesun Park
• Young Kuk Jhon

Effect of Manufacturing Variables and Raw Materials on the Composition-Equivalent PLGA Microspheres for 1-Month Controlled Release of Leuprolide

• Jennifer Walker
• Rose Ackermann
• Justin K. Y. Hong
• Steven P. Schwendeman *

Tumor-Associated Macrophages Promote Oxaliplatin Resistance via METTL3-Mediated m 6 A of TRAF5 and Necroptosis in Colorectal Cancer

• Huanrong Lan
• Jinlong Liu
• Xuanwei Wang
• Zhonghai Guan
• Jinlin Du *
• Ketao Jin *

Challenges and Opportunities of Deferoxamine Delivery for Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Intracerebral Hemorrhage

• Amy Corbin Farr
• May P. Xiong *

Characterization of Differential Tissue Abundance of Major Non-CYP Enzymes in Human

• Abdul Basit
• Naveen K. Neradugomma
• Christopher Wolford
• Peter W. Fan
• Bernard Murray
• Ryan H. Takahashi
• S. Cyrus Khojasteh
• Bill J. Smith
• Scott Heyward
• Rheem A. Totah
• Edward J. Kelly
• Bhagwat Prasad *

Nitric Oxide Releasing Delivery Platforms: Design, Detection, Biomedical Applications, and Future Possibilities

• Soumya Paul
• Swagata Pan
• Arindam Mukherjee *
• Priyadarsi De *

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• Int J Environ Res Public Health

Substance Abuse and Public Health: A Multilevel Perspective and Multiple Responses

Substance abuse has been a thorny public health concern throughout human history. Manifestly, prevention and treatment are the two main strategies commonly adopted to tackle the problem of substance abuse. They are in fact cross-disciplinary, and they relate to the various domains of heredity, biology, psychology, cognitive science, family, social development and cultural structures. This special issue, “Substance Abuse, Environment and Public Health,” has published empirical studies from different regions and countries globally to enhance the international exchange of latest views and findings on the etiology, processes and influences of substance abuse across different domains, through which a multilevel perspective is considered more helpful for analyzing its complex nature, courses and consequences. This in turn suggests the possible need to employ multiple responses dynamically and integratively in the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

1. Introduction

It is apparent that substance abuse is a cross-disciplinary topic of research and concern [ 1 , 2 ], which involves the need to employ concomitantly various theoretical explications and empirical evidence in collaborative efforts to strive for more optimal solutions to limit its contagiousness, and to curb any direct and indirect harm [ 3 , 4 ]. Substance abuse has been described as a “chronic relapsing disease”, with extremely high relapse rates that range from 56.8% to 81.8% [ 5 , 6 ]. Recently, the United Nations reported that “(i)n 2017, an estimated 271 million people, or 5.5 per cent of the global population aged 15–64, had used substances in the previous year” ([ 7 ], p.7). This is 11.5% higher than the estimated number of substance-using people in 2012 [ 8 ]. Due to the nature of recurrence and the rising number of substance users globally, a continuing upsurge in human, social, health and economic costs in the form of substance-related violence, criminal acts, health care needs, legal orders, rehabilitative services, reduced labor productivity and judicial expenditure is evident [ 4 , 6 , 9 ]. Undoubtedly, prevention and treatment are two main intervention approaches that have been commonly adopted to tackle substance abuse [ 2 , 10 ], in which the former focuses primarily on enhancing public awareness of the dangers of substance misuse and addiction, and the latter mainly emphasizes helping substance abusers to attain complete abstinence and avoid relapse. Both prevention and treatment of substance abuse are pertinent to public health, as the two approaches need to employ a multilevel perspective to conceptualize and solve fallout generated from drug trafficking, misuse and harm [ 11 , 12 ]. This points to the need to investigate human hereditary, biological, and psychological needs, cognitive and mental conditions, social development and cultural structures simultaneously and interactively.

For a comprehensive understanding of the nature, processes and impact of substance abuse on human individuals and societies as a whole, an international exchange of the latest scholarly views and empirical research findings is needed. This special issue, “Substance Abuse, Environment and Public Health,” aims to promote international exchange of empirical academic works on substance abuse and its related concerns. It includes 14 empirical research articles and one intervention paper from Bosnia, Croatia, Hong Kong, Italy, mainland China, Norway, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Slovenia, Sweden and the United States, and covers the topics of substance misuse and addiction amongst various social groups, different types and forms of illicit and legally approved substances and multiple research methods and designs. Importantly, the scholarly works published in this special issue are expected to present an opportunity to enhance the international exchange of cross-disciplinary research and academic inquiries in the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

2. Substance Abuse and Different Social Groups

When researching substance abuse and its harmful effects, researchers predominantly focus on certain social groups with a higher tendency towards substance taking and misuse, such as adolescents and male adults [ 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ]. This is valid, as they may encounter various demanding life and social challenges, expectations, interpersonal alienation and biological impulses, all of which are relevant to the triggering of their initiation into drug experimentation as a form of self-medication. Substances may also act as a comforting “soul mate” to help users evade hard realities [ 19 , 20 ]. In this special issue, Zubak et al. [ 21 ] examined the effects of scholastic factors—for example, grade point averages, school and other unexcused absences and poor behavior—in relation to illicit drug misuse (IDM) and its initiation among adolescents in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Jee et al. [ 22 ] investigated the trajectories of different smoking groups of young South Korean male adults and the implication of the habit in their atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in middle age. However, substance takers are never restricted to any specific social groups; they can be found in communities of professionals, social talents, elders and university students. Devcic et al. [ 23 ] examined socio-demographics, sports-related factors, factors of hesitation, doping-related factors, consumption of dietary supplements, knowledge of doping and predictors of doping behavior in terms of misusing performance-enhancing substances among high-level competitive swimmers in Slovenia. Wang et al. [ 24 ] investigated how gender, residential areas and study majors were related to misconceptions about antibiotic use among Chinese university students, which in turn linked to their antibiotic misuse behavior. Through the use of a community-based participatory research design, Walter et al. [ 25 ] inquired how work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and injuries among US fishing industry workers affected their use of prescription opioids to treat their pain, which in turn exposed them to increased risk of developing substance disorders. Apparently, different social groups are equally susceptible to the risk of substance abuse and addiction [ 3 , 4 , 12 ], and this is likely to be affected by their specific personal characteristics and environmental conditions. Hence, there is a need for researchers to discover both common and unique precursors germane to different social groups which lead to their substance using behavior.

3. Substance Abuse and Its Types and Forms

Substances that are misused or abused can be categorized into two forms. These include illicit and legally approved substances of various types. The most common illicit types of substances include cannabis, amphetamines, ketamine, methamphetamines, cocaine, ecstasy and heroin [ 2 , 6 ], which are largely banned in most countries. However, marijuana products have recently been legalized and commercialized in some northern American and Western states and regions under the umbrella of “control of reasonable use,” which casts a contemplative doubt over the original intent of reducing cannabis-related criminality and public health problems; hence, more research is needed on this subject [ 26 , 27 , 28 ]. Tobacco and alcohol are two legally approved types of substances that have been widely used by different social groups across different societies and cultures [ 6 , 11 , 29 ]. Some legally prescribed drugs, such as cough medications and the antibiotics mentioned above, can also be easily misused and abused by the general public, and these too merit the further attention of researchers [ 2 , 30 ].

In this special issue, Lo et al. [ 31 ] explored how far using illicit drugs, smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol predicted sexual misconduct among Macau youths, while simultaneously adjusting for the effects of susceptibility to peer influence and school attachment/commitment. Assari et al. [ 32 ] attempted to assess the impact of subjective and objective socioeconomic status on the cigarette smoking and alcohol use of older African Americans by controlling the effects of pertinent covariates, which included demographic factors (age and gender), living arrangement and family type, health insurance status, chronic medical conditions, self-rated health, sick days, depression and chronic pain. Muller et al. [ 33 ] investigated changes in exercise and nicotine use among 1464 Norwegian prison inmates by classifying them into harmful and non-harmful substance use pre-incarceration groups, according to the Drug Use Disorders Identification Test (DUDIT) and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), both of which are commonly used by healthcare practitioners and researchers to assess the severity of illicit drug and intoxicant use. Wang et al. [ 34 ] analyzed the sources of antibiotics leftovers in the home and the risk factors of keeping them in relation to antibiotic self-medication among Chinese university students. Taken together, the relationships between the use of illicit drugs and legally approved substances are complex and intertwined or mutually reinforcing [ 35 , 36 ]. They may be affected by the personal circumstances and environmental conditions of the abusers, and may cause other forms of behavioral maladjustment [ 17 , 37 , 38 ]. Nevertheless, our current understanding of this complicated phenomenon of substance abuse is limited, and so more cross-disciplinary research is again recommended.

4. Researching Substance Abuse: Methods and Designs

As has been mentioned, substance abuse is a public health concern that involves human biological and physical needs, psychosocial demands, cognitive and spiritual fulfillment, and environmental formulations. Therefore, cross-disciplinary research using different methodologies and designs is much needed to scrutinize substance abuse in respect of etiology, maintenance, consequences, abstinence and relapse. Generally speaking, empirical studies using quantitative methods are more common than research involving qualitative inquiry, analysis of secondary data and/or documentary inspection [ 16 , 39 , 40 ]. In fact, research based on a range of methods and designs is useful in enhancing our comprehension of the nature and impact of substance abuse from different perspectives. This special issue incorporates empirical studies conducted by quantitative, qualitative and documentary methods. For quantitative research designs, study findings based on a representative sample or any of the random sampling procedures are desirable, and can strengthen empirical evidence and provide greater external validity [ 41 ]. For example, Oh et al. [ 42 ] investigated whether those who had current or previous experience of facial flushing would drink for different primary reasons, compared with those who had no experience of facial flushing. The sample comprised 4590 college students who were recruited by stratified random sampling procedures proportionately in 82 colleges in South Korea. There are other empirical studies in this special issue that similarly used a representative sample [ 21 , 24 , 31 , 34 ]. However, using quantitative methods to survey empirically the attitudes and behaviors of certain health and human service professional groups is less likely to require a representative sample, and so it is necessary to use non-probabilistic sampling procedures such as quota, purposive or snowballing sampling designs. Molina-Mula et al. [ 43 ] analyzed the attitudes and perceptions of emergency and mental health nurses with regard to alcoholics. Their findings will hopefully help to develop appropriate professional and clinical responses to substance abuse.

Qualitative research methods can help reveal in-depth and formative information related to the processes and development of substance abuse. For their qualitative study, Chan et al. [ 44 ] interviewed 67 drug abusers to explore how their psychological experiences—with special emphasis on interpersonal relatedness—affected their drug taking and relapse behaviors. Walter et al. [ 25 ] used qualitative interviewing to examine knowledge of and attitudes towards opioid use among 21 fishing industry workers in the US. In addition, use of secondary data or documentary information can efficiently and objectively assist in the transition processes of substance users. For example, Asharani et al. [ 45 ] employed and analyzed recorded data from the Registry of Birth and Death, Immigration and Checkpoint Authority of Singapore to investigate the unnatural deaths of 42 treatment seekers of substance addiction between 2011–2015. Their findings provide evidence of the lethal consequences of substance abuse in an unobtrusive manner. Moreover, Chmielowiec et al. [ 46 ] examined the relationship between the mesolimbic dopamine system and addiction in a group of 299 addicted subjects and another group of 301 non-addict controls by analyzing two polymorphisms in their genes (a variable number of tandem repeats in DRD4 and DAT1), which are mainly responsible for dopaminergic transmission, representing a human reward system that is closely related to substance abuse and misuse. It is clear that research using different methods and designs is useful in fortifying and enhancing currently established concepts and knowledge of substance abuse. Therefore, more novel research methods and designs should be encouraged, so that patterns of substance abuse can be more efficiently dissected.

5. Conclusions

Substance abuse has been an issue of public health for hundreds of years [ 47 ]. Nevertheless, professionals and researchers of different domains tend to adopt a one-dimensional view based on their particular expertise when examining, explaining and trying to find solutions to this complex problem [ 10 , 48 , 49 ]. Thus, various and often competing perspectives rooted in the paradigms of heredity, biology, psychology, cognitive science, family, social development and cultural structures can exist simultaneously, thereby unwittingly compounding the problem [ 1 , 2 , 39 , 50 ]. However, as substance abuse is composed of layers of individual development, family and social influences, cultural values and environmental conditions, a multilevel perspective is needed to analyze its etiology, maintenance and consequences. Various theories and models from different scholarly paradigms at different levels of social systems should be employed concomitantly to help examine and resolve the issues as part of a dynamic and comprehensive process [ 2 , 3 , 12 ]. Employing such a multilevel perspective requires researchers and practitioners to explore the interaction of hereditary, physical, psychological, cognitive, mental, family, social, cultural and environmental factors, and to show exactly how such synergy leads to and/or maintains substance use and addiction. Doing so will help in the design of improved multiple responses to the fallout from substance abuse.

As substance abuse is never limited to particular social groups in human societies, it is essential to understand the unique psychological, personality, cognitive, socioeconomic, familial and cultural differences of various social groups, and to explore what common and unique characteristics they hold in terms of the initiation, processes and consequences of substance abuse [ 4 , 6 ]. If researchers, service practitioners, educators and policy makers were able to understand the common and unique etiological causes and stimulants that incur experimentation and the subsequent maintenance of substance abuse, more effective prevention and treatment strategies and programs could be introduced. Furthermore, because each society or nation is comprised of multiple differing social groups, a knowledge and understanding of their unique cultural and ethnic structures would be empirically useful for researchers trying to unearth the common and distinct etiological causes and stimulants of substance use and abuse. This is a largely unchartered area of research.

The abuse of different types and forms of substances may generate different levels of addiction and harm [ 2 , 51 ], which in turn may trigger distinct social maladjustment and craving behaviors [ 12 , 52 ]. Therefore, future research should discern and clarify the effects of different types and forms of substances on the progress, abstinence and relapse of addicts; this would lead to a better comprehension of the nature and impact of substance abuse. Quantitative methods and designs should be adopted to this end, in addition to other methods and designs that will broaden our perspectives on the topic. In other words, future addiction research should consider the employment of mixed-method designs to investigate the nature of different types and forms of substances and their effects on different social groups. Furthermore, the interaction between the biological, individual, family, social and cultural factors that lead to substance abuse is worthy of research, but will require more advanced methodological designs and mathematical and statistical procedures.

The processes and consequences of substance abuse can be seen to evolve in step with social, technological and cultural developments [ 4 , 39 ]. The patterns and forms of substance abuse can vary according to different social groups. Therefore, comparative and longitudinal research is more useful and insightful in helping to reveal its precarious and dynamic influences. In fact, polysubstance abuse—in which substance addicts expect to achieve higher substance-synergy effects of enjoyability by simultaneously abusing multiple types of drugs and substances—has become more common in the past decade [ 53 , 54 ]. This apparently presents an even greater challenge to treatment and healthcare services. In the face of this new phenomenon, the role of empirical research becomes more pivotal in helping to configure effective approaches and solutions.

In conclusion, substance abuse has long been a thorny public health problem, and it continues to evolve. Multiple responses supported by the employment of a multilevel research perspective are needed. Cross-disciplinary collaboration and concerted research are urgently required if we are to optimize our current strategies and remediation.

Author Contributions

T.W.L., J.W.K.Y., and C.H.L.T. conceived the topic for the Special Issue and were the guest editors. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

This research received no external funding.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Forms of Drug Abuse and Their Effects

• February 2018
• Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly 1(1):13-19

• University of Kashmir

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• Drug Addiction: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Impacts of Drugs on the Society
• Drug and Alcohol Abuse among Young People
• Drug Abuse among Teenagers Causes and Effects
• The Consequences of Drug Abuse
• Ethical and Legal Implications of Prescribing Drugs
• Shoppers Drug Mart: History, Founder, SWOT Analysis
• Causes and Effects of Drug Addiction Drug abuse entails constant and excessive usage of drugs to create feelings of happiness and blot out reality despite its well-known harmful effects.
• Adolescent Drug Abuse, Their Awareness and Prevention This essay provides a critique of an article written by Chakravarthy, Shah, and Lotfipour about adolescent drug abuse prevention interventions.
• Alcohol, Tobacco, and Illegal Drugs: Use Consequences Although tobacco, alcohol, and drugs cause severe physical and mental health problems and spoil a person’s social life, the image created for them contributes to harm devaluation.
• Drug Abuse and Theories Explaining It This paper aims to examine several theories explaining drug addiction. The theories for analysis are biological, psychological, and sociological.
• Drug Abuse and Its Effects on Families Because of the lack of control that a substance abuse patient has over their actions, families of the people that develop chemical dependency are under constant threat.
• How Drugs Influence the Crimes This essay discusses five major questions about ‘Drug and Crimes’, namely, what is the extent to which the drug subculture influences criminal behavior?, etc.
• Canadians’ Reaction to Alcohol as a Newly-Invented Illicit Drug The possible reaction of Canadians to alcohol, if it was a newly-invented illicit drug, will differ depending on their personal characteristics and external circumstances.
• Drug Addiction in America: Effects and Solutions The problem of illegal drug use is a major health issue in the United States, it affects thousands of people, the specified concern must be handled on the level of state policies.
• Drug Testing Problem Reflection The paper discusses a need for the maintenance of a drug test policy. In the present world, this issue is further exacerbated by the legalization of marijuana in all states.
• Drug Abuse and Alcohol-Related Crimes in Adolescents The current paper focuses on the topic of drug abuse and alcohol-related crimes among teenagers, showing that substances remain the most notable factor in juvenile crime.
• Drug Use and Heroin Addiction: Informative Speech The illegality of drugs makes it impossible to research the actual numbers of people using drugs and situations making these persons initiate drug abuse and harm their health.
• The Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs The information herein identifies particular risk factors that expose the global community to the objectionable concerns linked with the goods.
• Adderall Drug’s Impact on Cognitive Performance By exploring the effects of Adderall on cognitive performance, this research will contribute to an understanding of how this drug affects the brain and behavior.
• Case Study of Drug Addiction The case study provides a platform for evaluating treatment priorities and agencies crucial for the full recovery of substance abuse patients.
• Social Factors of Substance Drug Abuse Substance abuse refers to the pattern of continued use, despite adverse consequences. Socio determinants of substance abuse imply social factors that affect the outcome of drugs.
• Drug Abuse Relation to the Violent Behavior Various groups of drugs greatly vary and relate to violence in different ways. Any person with heavy drug habits may act negatively and involve in violent acts punishable by law.
• Teenage Drug Addiction Problem The modern world is full of diverse activities and hobbies that can have both positive and negative effects. This essay aims at discussing the phenomenon of teenage drug addiction.
• Drug Theme in “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin In the story “Sonny’s Blues” by Baldwin, Sonny’s friend felt responsible for what was happening to Sonny because he told him that taking heroine felt great.
• Drug Legalization from the Utilitarian Perspective The focus of the paper will be mainly on marijuana use, and such utilitarian principles as the principle of utility and the felicific calculus will be primarily applied.
• Shoppers Drug Mart Company’s Retail Networks The paper presents the analysis of business concept applications on the example of the Shoppers Drug Mart company. It suggests ways to maintain the market share of retail networks.
• Monopoly Drugs Versus Generic Drugs When a pharmaceutical company creates a new drug it may apply for and be granted a patent that is a legal protection that shelters an invention from being used, copied, or traded without permission.
• Drug Misuse and Its Effects on Children Health and body functioning are negatively affected, and the condition may manifest itself in drug dependence or an array of other harmful and problematic behaviors.
• Miami Drug Wars of the 70s and 80s Drug use is a subject that has raised controversies for decades. This paper focuses on the drug wars in Miami outlining their social, political, and economic impacts.
• Drug Dealing on College Campuses Regardless of the attention given to the issue, the effects of drugs on students are always understated. It is typical because the entire scope of the problem is rarely understood.
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse in the Workplace Alcohol and drug abuse is one of the major causes of accidents in the workplace. Random alcohol and drug tests would discourage employees of organization from abusing alcohol or drugs.
• Brain Gain: The Underground World of Neuroenhancing Drugs In “Brain Gain: The Underground World of Neuroenhancing Drugs” published in The New Yorker, Talbot describes the harsh reality of young people in academia who take off-label drugs to keep up with their hectic schedules.
• Drug Addiction and Best Treatment Practices This paper will determine the role of treatment in the recovery process and analyze the best evidence-based practices.
• Assessment and Therapeutic Approaches for Drug Addiction Clients The paper uses various drug addiction assessment methods to examine the severity, give clinicians insight into the problem and assist in psychotherapy.
• Drug Dependency: Construction of a Rehabilitation Center Creating a program that would act as a foundation to help drug addicts recover from drug usage would help lessen drug dependency.
• Drug Abuse in Homeless Community The number of homeless people is continuously increasing, creating a severe threat to a country’s general well-being.
• Food and Drug Administration History The paper provides a brief introduction, background, and history of the FDA and the ways in which it operates, and the practices implemented.
• Criminal Justice System: Drugs and Crime The main objective of the criminal justice system is ensuring delivery of justice for all. It mainly concentrates in detection of crime.
• The Crisis of Drug Addiction This essay will focus on the crisis of drug addiction in general. It will also include some factors that lead to drug abuse. The paper will cover the dynamics of drug addiction in the USA.
• Public Policies Related to Drug Addiction Public policies related to drug addiction need to be enforced in a compassionate manner that pays attention to the unique needs of American society.
• Overcoming the Drug Abuse Addiction The use of narcotic drugs brings irreparable harm to health and diminishes the quality of life. Opioid abuse is a predominant problem that continues to be a concern.
• A Spontaneous Reporting System for Drug Safety Surveillance Post-marketing in clinical trials uses a spontaneous reporting system for drug safety surveillance where potential AEs induced by the drugs are detected.
• The Influence of Drugs and Alcohol on Date Rape While drugs can affect mental health and make the victim forget everything, the perpetrators indulge in alcohol abuse to escape the blame and deny non-consensual sex.
• The Influence of Drugs and Social Media Limitless online resources are used to search for helpful information and to harass, torment anonymously, or provoke others.
• Drugs and Alcohol Influence on Drivers Excessive amounts of alcohol and drugs deprive the driver of conscious control over the vehicle, leading to catastrophic consequences.
• Doctors’ Knowledge on Drug Prescription The reason why doctors have little knowledge of the drugs they prescribe is misplaced priorities during clinical trials.
• How Can Illegal Drugs Be Prevented From Entering Prison?
• Can Economic Aid Make a Difference in the Flow of Drugs?
• Are Novel Drugs Riskier for Patients Than Less Novel Drugs?
• Can the Drugs Problem Be Tackled Primarily Through Legal Enforcement?
• Do Drugs Are Barriers to Our Future?
• Are Anabolic Steroids Really Pernicious Deleterious Drugs?
• How Can Kids Best Be Convinced Not for Do Drugs?
• Have Newer Cardiovascular Drugs Reduced Hospitalization?
• Are Illegal Drugs Inferior Goods in the U.S.?
• How Dangerous Are Drugs?
• Are Psychotherapeutic Drugs Overprescribed for Treating Mental Illness?
• How Dangerous Are Drugs and What Can We Do About the Drug Problem?
• Are Drugs Taking Away the Excitement in Sports?
• How Antidepressant Drugs Work Effect Us?
• Does Medicaid Pay Too Much for Prescription Drugs?
• Are Drugs More Detrimental to Educational Attainment?
• Are Diet Drugs Are Safe for People?
• Can Pharmacogenomics Improve Drugs Safely?
• Does Price Reveal Poor-Quality Drugs?
• How Are Biosimilar Drugs More Extensive Than Those of Generic?
• Are Illegal Drugs Inferior Goods?
• Does Previous Marijuana Use Increase the Use of Other Drugs?
• How Are Drugs and Alcohol Affecting the Teenagers?
• Are Any Drugs Derived From the Ocean Presently Approved?
• Are the More Educated More Likely to Use New Drugs?
• Does Coffee Contain Drugs?
• Has the Time Come to Legalize Drugs?
• How Cost-Effective Are New Cancer Drugs in the U.S.?
• Are Adolescents With Abusive Parents at a Greater Risk of Abusing Drugs?
• Can Production and Trafficking of Illicit Drugs Be Reduced?
• Trade and Usage Control: Drug Enforcement Administration The paper looks into the history of the drug enforcement agency, the factors that led to its formation, its goals, and its comparison with the federal bureau of narcotics.
• Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) Assays Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) refers to the measurement of chemical or biochemical parameters in the lab to inform drug prescribing procedures.
• “Addicts Who Survived” by David Courtwright: Crucial Work on Drug Addiction The purpose of this paper is to identify the main issues raised by David Courtwright and to discuss the content of the book “Addicts Who Survived”.
• “Should Drugs Be Legalized?” by William Bennett The war against drugs in the United States has reached a new level. Such an outcome is conditional upon the recent measures that politicians are discussing.
• Juvenile Drug Abuse Problems Analysis This essay describes the problem of juvenile drug use and applies the relevant delinquency theory. Additionally, the interventions or programs to fix the issue will be highlighted.
• Drug Abuse Among Teenagers Before analyzing the causes of addiction among teenagers, we have to look at this issue from sociological point of view.
• Pharmacology: Drug Licensing Opportunity Obtaining a license for a new drug is a very costly and time consuming affair. Any pharmaceutical company would have to weigh all its options before embarking on such a process.
• Nurse Misconduct and Drug Diversion as Legal Issue The paper analyzes the case of nurse misconduct associated with drug diversion and identifies improvement strategies to avoid the problem in the future.
• Shoppers Drug Mart Corporation’s Retail and Services Shoppers Drug Mart pays significant attention to the development of an efficient retail network that makes the business attractive to customers.
• The War on Drugs: Unsuccessful Efforts and Prison Overpopulation The War on Drugs, which was conducted from the 1980s to 1990s, is considered to be a massive failure in almost every way. It has affected the prison population and correctional facilities in the US.
• Drugs and Jazz in James Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues” In his short story Sonny’s Blues, James Baldwin uses drugs and jazz music as both literal concepts and metaphorical images to portray the suffering of African Americans.
• Drug Criminalization: Causes and Effects A comparison of the points made by opponents and proponents of drug decriminalization shows the differences between their overviews of the causes of drug crimes.
• Drugs and Substance Abuse in College: Effects and Treatments The paper will give a review of a treatment approach to drug abuse and describe the effects of substance abuse on a person who is in college.
• Male Health Drugs:Overview and Effects Adverse effects of androgenic drugs could be observed in livers in the form of blood-filled spaces known as peliosis of the liver.
• The Practice of Nursing Research: Drug Round Tabards The study has several implications for hospitals and nurses involved in medication distribution. It demonstrates that the implementation of drug round tabards is worth attention.
• Pharmaceutical Industry: Drug Development Drug development is a lengthy process but rightly so since the result should be playing a curative role and not disease inducer.
• The Control the Availability of Illicit Drugs The purpose of this paper is to discuss that has the federal legislation has been effective in reducing the trafficking, sale, and use of drugs.
• Social Problems Related to Alcohol and Drugs The present paper will explain the content of three articles relating to the issue of Alcohol and drug use while also providing a personal reflection on the readings.
• Ilaris(R)-Drug Usage in U.S. and Australia Ilaris(R) has been approved for use in humans by the Food and Drug Administration (US) and The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (Australia).
• The Relationship Between Drugs and Addiction to Crime Systemic crime emerges from the arrangement of drug circulation. It includes conflicts over the region in rival drug traders, attacks, and executions committed in involved groups.
• Drugs and Drug Related Crimes Obviously the current strategy of the government isn’t working and it is backfiring. The government needs to do something new.
• Drug Trafficking Reduction in the United States Drug trafficking is a serious menace to society. A deeper look into how this menace can be reduced is a logical and necessary endeavor towards securing a better tomorrow.
• Drug Interactions Prevention in Nursing Guidelines The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention developed new guidelines to dictate how and when medications should be provided.
• Drug-Drug and Food-Drug Interactions Drug-drug interactions occur when a medicine interferes or affects the activity of a second drug when administered together.
• The History of Drug Addiction and Control The paper states that drug initiation can be considered a system of relations between the adolescent, family, drug culture, and society.
• Drug Errors: Enhancing Care Quality and Safety Though numerous new technologies have been developed to improve healthcare delivery, drug errors continue to be an issue in the United States.
• Drugs: Myths and Misconceptions Starting from the very beginning of the twentieth century and ending even today, drugs as a topic have been surrounded by a mass of myths and misconceptions.
• Psychotropic Drugs Usage, Effects, Consequences Numerous aspects determine the effectiveness of drug therapy with psychotropic medication, for example, the appropriateness of the choice of pills for the disease.
• Victimless Crimes: Drug Abuse and Sex Work This work’s primary objective is to research and analyze victimless crimes, namely drug abuse and sex work, from the viewpoint of criminology.
• Forensic Drug Analysis Course: Reflection The most interesting part of the course is the study of various techniques for the analysis of substances and their impact on forensic research.
• Analysis of Drug Classification The article argues drug reactions depend considerably on patients and administration methods, that’s why employees must know the basics of drug classification.
• Drug Addiction: A Choice or a Medical Disease? This article examines two opposing points of view on the problem of drug addiction – does a person have a choice to be a drug addict or is drug addiction a medical disease?
• Psychotherapy and Counseling for Drug Abuse Treatment Drugs are the biggest vice of humanity, along with the mental and moral deviations, horrible diseases of modern times, social neglect and abuse it causes and goes along with.
• The Business Ethics Workshop: Sex and Drugs at Work Employees should not sleep with their bosses to get promotions and pay raises because it does not conform to honesty and fairness.
• Drug and Prostitution Issues in the Local Community The present scenario concerns a patrol officer assigned to a truck stop near a major highway encountering crime and disorder problems.
• What Are the Costs of Drug Addiction to Society? The essay will explore the overwhelming economic and social costs of drug addiction to society and outline how can confront and reduce the costs of drug addiction.
• The Drug Legalization Debate: A Complex Issue With Compelling Arguments Numerous social issues and concerns require close attention from the American government, including the problem of drug legalization.
• The Aspects of the Drug Use and Media The paper states that it is true when the media portrays drug and alcohol use in a glamorous light or when characters do not experience negative consequences.
• Drug Abuse in Pregnant Women: Effective Ways to Combat Several policies have been proposed to tackle the problem, namely financial support for therapy, voluntary sterilization, and criminal persecution.
• Monitoring Analysis of Drug Courts: The Value of Drug Courts The value of drug courts is expressed in their positive impact on drug-related crime statistics in the first years after completion of a drug treatment program.
• The legalization of recreational marijuana: pros and cons.
• Should drug users be criminalized or treated?
• Are drug companies liable for the opioid crisis?
• Are safe injection sites effective in preventing drug overdoses?
• The gateway drug theory: reality or a myth?
• Are mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses justified?
• The impact of zero tolerance drug policies in schools.
• The therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances.
• Why is drug testing essential in the workplace?
• Should drug education programs be mandatory in schools?
• Solutions to Drug Misuse in the United States Drug abuse is a major cause of concern in the United States, with a consequential impact on people’s health and societal psychosocial and socioeconomic problems.
• The Issue of Misuse of Prescription Drugs The paper discusses the growing problem of prescription drug abuse in the United States, its consequences such as addiction and overdose, and possible solutions.
• Drug Abuse During Pregnancy: Policy Options Heated discussions on whether or not drug abuse during pregnancy should be illegal due to the potential risks to the developing fetus or child persist.
• Disclosure and Nondisclosure in Drugs Prescription The case focuses on the ethical and legal implications of prescribing new medication currently in the development stage for a child under the age of 12.
• Illegal Drug Use in Nurses: Discussion There are reasons why nurses are at risk of developing a drug addiction, which means that there is a high chance for practitioners to work with nurses who illegally use drugs.
• Leadership in Drug Abuse Program Development Within the context of a potential intervention for drug abuse, the roles and competencies of leaders are the primary emphasis of this paper.
• Drugs and Violence Go Hand in Hand From the point of view of American researchers, substance abuse increases the chances of subjects being drawn into conflict relationships.
• Alcohol in the Drugs and Behavior Context It is no secret that alcohol and human health are incompatible things. The most significant influence of alcohol falls on the cerebral cortex.
• Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Public Relations The campaign conducted by Alcohol and Drug Foundation is a vivid example of how the theories and practices of PR can help alter people’s behavior.
• Illegal Drugs: Types and Influences Illegal drugs include substances that affect the body and the brain of a person. They are divided into several groups, depending on the method of use and the impact on the brain.
• Drug Addiction: A Disease or a Choice? Drug addiction remains a serious health concern for contemporary society. The problem of whether drug addiction can be viewed as a disease or a choice remains topical.
• Wellbutrin and Lexapro: Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitters Wellbutrin and Lexapro are effective drugs in the fight against depressive disorder. However, the drugs are addictive.
• Drugs and Behavior: History of Alcohol in America The ordinary colonial American drank roughly twice as much alcohol in 1770 as it does today—about three and a half gallons annually.
• Incretin Mimetic Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes In patients with type 2 diabetes, there is a significant decrease in the incretin effect and a decrease in insulin secretion in response to an oral load.
• Drug Abuse and Its Impact on Creativity The boosting effect of drugs on creativity is a myth because changes in thinking are a brain reaction to a narcotic that is temporary yet severe.
• Drug Addiction: The Brain Disease Drug addiction acts similarly to neurological diseases. Substances directly affected the brain, with addiction being the most acute phase of substance use disorder.
• Random Drug Testing at the Workplace Employees in law enforcement, public health and safety, and national security should all be subjected to random drug testing.
• Drug Repurposing in Cancer Treatment This article examines the concept of drug repurposing in the context of pharmaceutical companies’ innovation policy: the methods and economic feasibility of repurposing drugs.
• Ethics of Using Experimental Drugs It is necessary to examine whether terminal patients have a moral right to the experimental treatment and suggest possible outcomes for this type of cure.
• Economic Evaluation: Prevention of Suicide and Drug Overdose The economic evaluation of the provided scenario was conducted in four dimensions: cost-of-illness, programmatic, benefit-cost, and cost-effectiveness analyses.
• The War on Drugs in the United States The United States government’s combat with substance abuse is called the “War on Drugs,” addressing the campaign initiated by President Nixon.
• Zero Discrimination for People Who Use Drugs From all of the above, it follows that HIV-infected prisoners should have the same access to timely and high-quality medical care as the population.
• The Drug Abuse Problem in Indiana Drug usage is one of Indiana’s most serious societal problems, affecting the state’s health, economy, behavioral, and criminal elements.
• The Effect of an Antimicrobial Drug on Gene Expression This paper critically evaluates methods and techniques that can be used to assess the effect of an antimicrobial drug on global gene expression.
• Drug Addiction as Moral Failure The paper shows that drug abuse cannot be viewed as a moral failure. Kuhar’s scientific examinations made him come to that conclusion.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases Transmission Involving Drug Use Preventive techniques need to target drug addicts and sex workers to combat the STD epidemic and offer interventions to reduce risky sexual behaviors and drug use.
• Effects of Drug Use on Society Every society encounters a variety of problems that it needs to address, and one of the most common is drug use among the population.
• The Problems of Drug Misuse and Abuse and Their Management This research aims to determine the best ways to prescript drugs, the importance of drug interactions, and the potential dangers of drug abuse.
• Drug Misuse, Abuse, and Their Factors Addiction is a recurrent, chronic disorder characterized by compulsive substance seeking and use despite harmful consequences.
• The Anti-Drug Programs in Boston The history of drug abuse across the US has been a challenge for decades. There were various anti-drug programs introduced in Boston to curb the spread of its use in the city.
• Drug Prescription Issues and Abuse This paper aims to determine the best ways to prescript drugs, the importance of drug interactions, and the potential dangers of drug abuse.
• History of Drug Use in Incarceration The history of drug use in prisons go beyond 2008 with some documents indicating a steady rise in drug use between 1980 and 2008.
• Rohypnol and Illegal Drugs in Clinical Trials The current paper discusses Rohypnol. It is a generic drug known as flunitrazepam which contains lorazepam, diazepam, and alprazolam.
• Media Misinformation About Drug Use The United States is one of the countries with the strictest policies, rules, and regulations against the peddling and abuse of illicit drugs.
• Drug Abuse Demographics in Prisons Drug abuse, including alcohol, is a big problem for the people contained in prisons, both in the United States and worldwide.
• Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Strains As with any other infectious disease, TB exhibits specific signs and symptoms that help distinguish it from other illnesses.
• Correlation of HIV, AIDS in White Males Who Are Injection Drug Users The testable hypothesis for this work states that socioeconomic status is correlated with HIV/AIDS in white males who are injection drug users.
• COVID-19 Epidemic and Alcohol and Drug Addiction The sudden life changes during the COVID-19 epidemic make it difficult for people who suffer from alcohol and drug dependence to fight their addictions.
• High-Level Drug Trafficking in Australia Media articles explain the problem of narcotics trafficking across the Australian border. Australia is an effective participant in international drug trafficking organizations.
• Drug Addiction and Stigmatization The horrifying nature of stigmatization is one of the perplexing factors of drug addiction, so society should understand the role of mental and physical help for such people.
• The war on drugs: the causes of its failures.
• The impact of the war on drugs on minorities.
• The link between the war on drugs and mass incarceration.
• Alternatives to the war on drugs.
• The war on drugs and human rights violations.
• The economic costs of the war on drugs.
• The effects of the war on drugs on drug prices and availability.
• The impact of drug prohibition on drug use patterns.
• The influence of the war on drugs on drug-producing countries.
• Unintended adverse effects of the war on drugs.
• Drug Addiction: Analysis of Goeders and Guerin Research Goeders & Guerin (1994) point out that anxiety and stress may be involved in drug use and increased risk of dependency, as these are involved in the etiology of cocaine use.
• COVID-19 and Drugs at Schools as Public Health Issues This paper discusses two articles on community and public health issues, specifically, concerning COVID vaccination and drugs at schools.
• Drugs for Neglected Disease Initiative There is a significant unmet need for the treatment of many neglected diseases, as well as for patient groups impacted by these.
• Negative Effects of Drugs on Voice The essay explores the influence of drug intake on the singer’s voice and illustrate the importance of the topic for the singer’s vocal cords maintenance.
• Drug Abuse at the Workplace and a Policy to Address It In this proposal, a policy to address worker substance abuse and addiction, will be discussed, with both its major goals and potential benefits being outlines.
• Drug and Substance Abuse: Sociological Causes and Explanations It is normal to think that drug and substance abuse affects only consumers. However, it also affects various aspects of society.
• Drugs and Social Life in Iceland The nature of drug use in Iceland can be described as experimental — young people see something new in them and decide to try it out.
• Drug Legalization: Arguments For and Against Some people would say that the U.S. should stop the war on drugs because this war caused enormous imprisonment of small-time drug dealers.
• Act Liability for Price-Fixing of Generic Drugs The United States Department of Justice reported that Apotex Corporation, among other drug manufacturers, paid over $400 to settle violations of the False Claims Act.
• The Emergence of Drug-Resistant Pathogens The drug-resistant pathogens phenomenon has endangered the efficacy of drugs such as antibiotics which have helped transform modern medicine and saved countless lives.
• Non-Performance Enhancing Drugs in Sports The use of drugs is prohibited in professional sports. As for the drugs that do not improve performance, they also require control.
• The Adverse Consequences of Substance Use Tool and the Psychoactive Drug History The patient is a 25-years old White male, homosexual, currently single. He has a medical history of having a severe case of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, clinical depression.
• Vaccine and Antiviral Drug Supply and Distribution Problem Once the cause of the vaccine and antiviral drugs supply and distribution problem is established, it becomes possible to offer a solution.
• The Mexican Drug War and “Queen of the South” The purpose of this paper is to explore how the Mexican drug war and cartels and their influences on Hispanic culture are reflected in this Netflix series.
• Decriminalizing the Simple Possession of Illegal Drugs The decriminalization of illicit drugs has been mentioned as one of the most effective ways of dealing with the crisis in America.
• National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors This paper will consider the fourth principle of the organization’s ethical code, which reads: “Working in a culturally diverse world.”
• Evaluating Harm Reduction Program for Drug Users The target population of this quantitative study includes substance users with a focus on drug addicts. Harm reduction program addresses the needs of drug addicts who seek help.
• Drug Cartels in Mexico: Definition, Background, Mexican War on Drugs Mexican drug cartels, as one of the most powerful and well-known internationally, present the primary focus of interest in the research paper.
• Causes and Consequences of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Drug addiction is a psychological and physical disorder that affects the brain of an individual. It is caused by dependence on drugs, alcohol, and specific behaviors.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Globalization The paper explains why the FDA has created a global strategy for fulfilling its mission and what are the costs and benefits to society of a more globalized food market.
• Six Stages of Change: Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction Recovery from addiction leads to lifestyle change. Individuals whose loved ones undergo the recovery process may feel long when they have doubtful expectations.
• Types of Drugs and Types of Domestic Abuse Correlation Understanding that the consumption of particular drugs causes physical changes is essential in ascertaining the probability of a specific type of domestic violence.
• Drug Production During Crisis: The Case of COVID-19 The essay argues that the US healthcare system is not suited to properly address crises as COVID-19 has illustrated.
• Classification of Legal and Illegal Drugs The classification of drugs as either legal or illegal provides a baseline foundation for the effect on victims and the attribute of addiction.
• High U.S. Drug Prices: Health Policy Log This paper presents a health policy log on why are U.S. drug prices so high, including a brief summary of the topic discussed, and an analysis of the health policy issue.
• Why Adolescents Take Drugs: Human Development Delinquent and irresponsible behaviors such as substance abuse, violence, and unsafe safe practices produce serious social and health implications.
• Prescription Drug Abuse Problem Providing access to prescription drugs is among the key tasks that the modern healthcare system should fulfill to increase recovery rates.
• War on Drugs: Causes and Problems Ever since a declaration on the war on drugs was made a few decades ago, arguments have not been far off. Top on the list of these disputes has been the issue of drug legalization.
• Drug War in Border Cities: Causes and Consequences This paper examines three topics: the situation in border cities, the consequences of drug wars, and the question of whether legalization can solve the problem.
• Consumption of Illicit Drugs in the United States Tackling the drug problem in America requires a two-pronged strategy that focuses on the demand and supply side of the problem.
• Drug Testing in Pharmacology The aim of this paper is to analyze and review drug tests within the population of third-world countries and define whether these trials are ethical.
• Cause and Effect of Drug Addiction As a result of drug misuse, there are changes in the functioning of neurological pathways in the human brain, with the associated physical; and mental health deterioration.
• Support for the Legalization of the Drug Consumption The appropriate use of drugs is everyone’s responsibility, and whether legalized or illegalized by the government may not reduce its abuse.
• Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Program Successful addiction treatment is comprised of three aspects, constructing the addiction treatment: body, mind, and soul.
• Analysis of Drugs in American Society by E. Goode According to Goode, a number of scholars state that abuse is the use of drugs without a related medical prescription.
• Mandatory Drug Tests for Nursing Students Nursing schools have therefore tried to address this issue and one of the most commonly used tools is the mandatory drug test.
• Alcohol and Other Drug Use Among the Aboriginal and Torres Islander People The paper evaluates the patterns of alcohol and other drug usage among the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and drug-related harms.
• The Problem of Legalizing Drugs The problem of drugs legalization is a topic for debate in many countries where politicians, sociologists, philosophers, and other experts try to address the consequences of using drugs.
• The Effect of Prohibition Alcohol and Drug Use Although Prohibition reduced consumption in the initial period, it does not imply that it realized success; neither did it make the community better.
• How Liquid Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry is Used in Drug Screening Drugs like glucocorticosteroids are tested using LC/MS method. The paper has two different examples of how LC-MS is used in drug screening to understand better.
• Random Drug Testing: Pros and Cons
• Drugs in the Modern Sports
• Patient Rights to Experimental Drugs
• Drug Issues in Watertown, New York
• Racism, Racial Profiling and Bias in the War on Drugs
• Variables That Impact Sentencing Decision of Judges in Drug Offender Cases
• The Drug Trafficking as Organized Crime
• The Effectiveness of Drugs in Medicine
• Drug Trafficking and Terrorism in the Middle East
• Drugs and Crime Committed Under the Influence
• Combating the Local Drug Distribution in Missouri
• Colombian and Mexican Drug Cartels and Their Impact in the U.S.
• Substance Abuse: Alcohol and Drugs in the Movie “Ray”
• “Addicts Who Survived” by David Courtwright: American Addiction to Narcotics Problem and Anti-drug Policies
• The Interrelationship Among a Bacterial Pathogen and Antimicrobial Drugs
• Should All or Certain Drugs Be Legalized?
• Drug Release: Ethical Dilemma in Pharmaceutics
• Drug Abuse in Correction Facilities
• Distribution of Fake Drugs: Analysis of a Criminal Case
• An Overview of Drug Addiction
• Medication Safety and Drug Therapy Process
• Reducing the Number of Adverse Drug Events Among Older Adults: An Action Plan
• A Study of Drug Allergy, Iron Poisoning and Abnormal Bone Mineral Metabolism
• Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act Amendment
• The Role of Forensics in the War on Drugs
• The Effects of Drugs on a Man’s Reproductive System
• Schizophrenia Treatment With Approved Drug
• Reducing Adverse Drug Events Among Older Adults
• The U.S. Drug Prices Assessment
• Drug Abuse in the United States’ Social Context
• The Drug Courts: The Question of Drug Abuse
• Drugs for Treating Schizophrenia and Mood Disorders
• The Importation of Drugs into the United States
• Regulation of Drug Compounding
• The Concept of the “War on Drugs”
• Two Acts on Drug Law Comparison
• Quality Patient Care: Drug Errors and Nurses
• Drug Addiction: Elimination of Incarcerations
• Health Issue Analysis: Prescription Drug Abuse
• The Link Between Drug Abuse and Corruption
• Carl Hart’s Talk on Racism, Poverty, and Drugs
• Why Government Needs Drug Control Policy?
• War on Drugs: Fighting the Way We Are Not Likely to Win
• Pharmacogenomics Impact on Individual Drug Effectiveness
• Drug Use and Biological Development in Adolescents
• Reality in Drug Addiction Research: Ethnography
• The Drug Abuse in the U.S. Navy: The Problem Analysis
• The High Cost of Specialty Drugs
• Overmedication of Children With Psychotropic Drugs
• International Drug Policy in Russia and the US
• OxyContin as a Legitimate Drug and a Drug of Abuse
• Drug Trade. “Crack” Book by David Farber
• Drug Abuse Factors: Substance Use Disorder
• Prescription Drug Cost Transparency
• Effects of Drugs on the State of Consciousness
• A Right to Experimental Drugs
• Legalization of Marijuana and Other Illegal Drugs
• The Problem of Increased Morbidity From Adverse Drug Events in Older Adults
• Drug Abuse and Addiction: Risk Factors
• Bacterial Cells and Chemotherapeutic Drugs
• Research Drug Safety Approaches
• The Relations Between Drug Abuse and Criminal Justice
• Cocaine as a Drug Chosen for Medical Research
• Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Organizations
• Specialty Drugs Costs and Insurance
• Legalization of Marijuana: The Pros and Cons of the Drug
• Drug Abuse: Impaired American Society
• The Issue of Drug Abuse in the Community of Kinsburg
• Caffeine and Performance of Drugs in Adolescents
• Support Services and the Case Review: Drug and Alcohol Addiction
• Health Reform Bill on Drugs in the United States
• The Theme of Drug Abuse in Egan’s Book
• Arguments For and Against Allowing Drug Use in Sports
• Drugs in Perspective: Models of Addiction
• The Money Factor in Drug and Alcohol Treatment
• The Problem of Prescription Drug Abuse in the United States
• Performance Enhancing Drugs and the Student Athletes
• Clandestine Drug Laboratory Dangers
• Drug Use, Dealing and Violence
• Global Trends Affecting a Local Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers
• Criminalizing Drug Usage: Effects and Consequences
• Drugs to Wipe Out Traumatic Memories
• Mexican Drug Cartels: A Transnational Threat
• Information Technology and Mexican Drug Cartels
• Investigating the Issue of Drug Trafficking Through the Points
• Profession of US Drug Enforcement Agent
• Random Drug Test on College Athletes
• Drugs and Society Violent Crime: Public Drunkenness
• American Prohibition and the War Against Drugs
• Drug Abuse and Drug Addiction and Various Policies Related to Drugs
• Drug Abuse and Crime Correlation
• Mandatory Job Drug Test Should Be Allowed
• Drug Addiction: The Problem of Xanax Abuse and Its Consequences
• Physical Privacy and Drug Testing
• Sports Violations: Drug Use in Baseball
• Anti-Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco Education Programs
• Drug Enforcement and War on Drugs
• “Blood for Sale” and “Drug Dilemmas”: Articles Reviews
• Mechanism of Action and Clinical Application of Antiviral Drugs
• Performance Enhancing Drugs Legalization in Sports
• Criminal Justice Ethics: Police Corruption & Drug Sales
• Prescribed Drugs With Complementary and Alternative Medicines
• Current Sources of Evidence-Based Standards and Guidelines for Prescribing Psychiatric Drugs
• Drug Addiction Is a Chronic Disease
• Drug Trafficking: Investigation on Frank Lucas
• Law: Drug Treatment and Testing Orders
• Drug Use in the Workplace: The Case of Acme-Antiroadrunner Inc.
• Violence in the 20th-Century Latin America: Colombian Drug Wars, Dictatorship in Chile, and Undiscovered Personal Tragedies
• Drug Abuse Case: Jenny G
• E-Prescribing Drug Technology in the Healthcare
• Computerized Provider Order Entry Against Drug Errors
• Drug Prescription Policy Analysis
• Prescription Drug Misuse in Elderly Patients
• Food and Drug Administration – Regulatory Agency
• Fear Appeal in Anti-Drug Abuse Public Campaign
• Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking Offenders
• Soderbergh’s Traffic and the U.S. War on Drugs
• Mandatory Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients
• Health Policy: 340B Drug Pricing Program
• War on Drugs Through a Socio-Political Framework
• Drug-Dealing Organizations in Latin American Politics
• Drugs and Society: Drug Use and Its Impact on Culture and Society
• Random Drug Testing in Schools
• Psychoactive Drugs, Society, and Human Behaviour
• Black Theology and Its Impact on Drug Addiction
• Drug and Alcohol Abuse Treatment Effectiveness
• Undercover Police Investigations in Drug-Related Crimes
• “Adolescent Alcoholism and Drug Addiction” by Choate
• Behind the War on Drugs
• Drug Test on Welfare Recipients
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Aspirin
• Drug Abuse Treatment in Nursing
• Pramlintide as Anti-Diabetic Drug
• Antiseizure Medications and Antipsychotic Drugs
• Eli Lilly and Company: Drug Firm Analysis
• The Drug Enforcement Administration Business Model
• Addressing the Growing Cost of the Prescription Drugs
• Nurse Practitioner as a Drug Prescriber
• Pharmacy and Policy: Inappropriate Prescription of Drugs
• Teenage Drug and Substance Abuse
• Drug Abuse Among Homeless People in Miami
• The Problem of Drug Use and Heroin Addiction in US
• Using Free and Secure Trade to Smuggle Drugs
• Food and Drug Administration Fast-Track Approval
• Computerized Entry of Drug Prescribing Order
• Healthcare Financing and Drug Addiction
• Ethics of Abortion and Over-the-Counter Drugs
• Drug Therapy: Nicotine Interference with Contraceptives
• Drugs Comparison: Montelukast, Flovent and Albuterol
• Prescription Drug Use in the United States
• Apis Mellifica as a Homeopathic Drug for Headaches
• Drug Safety Approach in Advanced Nursing Practice
• Drug Abuse, HIV/AIDS, and Songs on Social Issues
• Drug War Failure and Associated Problems
• Adverse Drug Events: Evidence-Based Project
• Miami-Dade Community Needs: Alcohol and Drug Addiction
• Drug Addiction among Nurses
• Can Hospitals Manufacture Drugs in the US?
• Prescription Drugs Prices and Services in Florida
• Female Drug Abuser’s Recovery Care Plan
• Nonmedical Use of Drugs and Negative Sexual Events
• Understanding Drug and Non-Drug Addictions
• Casinos: Occupational Safety and Drug-Free Workplace
• Drug Safety Approach in Administration and Nursing
• Adverse Drug Events in the Elderly and the Role of Nurses’ Awareness
• US Prison System: Impact of the War on Drugs and Reform Needs
• Racial Injustice in America’s Drug War: Policy Failures and Solutions
• How Mexico Drug Cartels Are Supporting Conflicts?
• Sentencing Policies on Drug Offences
• Analyzing Crack Economy in East Harlem: Insights from Philippe Bourgois
• Drug Courts Policy and Its Evaluation
• US-Mexico Border Wall: Addressing Illegal Immigration and Drug Trafficking
• Analysis of Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis: Characteristics, Treatment and Prevention
• Illicit Drug Use and Addiction Among American Youths
• Prescription Drug Abuse in Oklahoma: Awareness & Prevention
• Performance Enhancing Drugs and Professional Sport
• Sociology: Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Problem
• Crisis of Chemical Dependence: Drug Abuse
• The Phenomenon of The Use of Prescription Drugs
• Drugs and Prison Overcrowding
• Drug Abuse: The Prevalent Practice in Different Parts of the World

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StudyCorgi. (2021, September 9). 429 Drugs Essay Topics & Research Questions + Examples. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/drugs-essay-topics/

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StudyCorgi . "429 Drugs Essay Topics & Research Questions + Examples." September 9, 2021. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/drugs-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2021. "429 Drugs Essay Topics & Research Questions + Examples." September 9, 2021. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/drugs-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Drugs were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on June 21, 2024 .

108 Drug Abuse Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best drug abuse topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on drug abuse, 💡 most interesting drug abuse topics to write about, ❓ drug abuse research questions.

Drug abuse essays are an excellent way to learn about the issue and its influence on various groups and populations while demonstrating your understanding.

Various substances, including alcohol, narcotics, and other mind-altering products, are a popular method for recreation in some communities.

However, they are prone to result in addiction, psychological as well as mental, and lead the person to pursue another dose before anything else.

In doing so, he or she can eventually ruin his or her life, which is why most drugs are currently banned around the world. This article will offer you some tips that will help you write an excellent essay and receive the top grade.

Youth is a major demographic that is affected by addiction issues due to drug consumption. Young people are impressionable and prone to search for new sensations. Drugs can offer a sense of novelty and provide an experience they have not had before, leading to considerable appeal.

Considering that young people are generally not wealthy and have to focus on work to succeed in life, essays on drug among youth can use a variety of excellent topics. You can offer your ideas on the reason for the phenomenon’s existence and ways in which it can be prevented.

However, remember that the purpose of the programs should be to help the people who are at risk.

There are many other drug abuse essay topics that you can explore, with poverty being a prominent example. Despite their conditions, many people turn to substance abuse to try and escape the unpleasant aspects of their life.

These population segments are more likely to suffer after acquiring a drug habit than young people because they generally receive less attention.

Furthermore, poor neighborhoods with relatively low amounts of surveillance by law enforcement are likely to house drug dealers who prey on vulnerable people.

You can discuss this topic or discuss a variety of other ones, as the relationship between poverty and poor outcomes has been researched deeply.

Here are some additional tips for your essay:

• Try to use examples to illustrate your points about various aspects of the issue. Drug addiction essay quotations from people who are affected by the condition or have overcome it can offer valuable insights. They also legitimize your findings by providing parallels with the real world.
• Alcohol essays are an excellent choice, as the substance is legal and available to everyone without much difficulty. Nevertheless, its effects can be devastating, especially if a person’s consumption is chronic.
• Try to write a drug abuse essay outline before starting work, as it will help you to organize the essay. Select some prominent ideas that you want to discuss and organize them in a manner that represents a logical progression. You do not have to discard all of the other concepts, as you can make them sub-headings under your main titles.
• Be sure to include a drug abuse essay introduction and conclusion in your work. They will help you provide a structure to the essay and make it easier for the reader to understand your ideas. The introduction should describe the topic and provide the thesis, and the conclusion should restate your main points.

Visit IvyPanda for drug abuse essay titles, and other useful samples on various subjects to help you with your writing work!

• Drug and Alcohol Abuse For along time now, drug and alcohol abuse in the society has been a problem that affects the youth and the society at large. This paper highlights the problems of drug abuse and alcohol drinking […]
• Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse Drug trafficking contributes to drug abuse in the society. Drug trafficking also contributes to increased criminal activities that affect the security of citizens.
• Social Media Impact on Drug Abuse Thus, social media platforms definitely contribute to the misuse of various drugs by romanticizing their consumption and making “social drug use” acceptable among users.
• Drug Abuse and Current Generation Drug abuse also breeds an array of behavioral problems among young people, which may affect their suitability to fit in the society.
• Drug Abuse & Its Effects on Families Focusing on the family seems to be by far, the most known and effective way of finding a solution with regards to the “war on drugs” since it more promising to end the vicious cycle […]
• Drug and Substance Abuse Many experts consider addiction as a disease as it affects a specific part of the brain; the limbic system commonly referred to as the pleasure center.
• Merton’s Argument of Deviance: The Case of Drug Abuse The most prominent example in support of Merton’s argument in relation to drug abuse is that cultural and social circumstances play a crucial role in defining people’s desire to engage in drug use.
• Consequences of Drug Abuse The endless stream of drugs, obtainable to the individuals with little or no restrictions, poses a serious inquiry. When assessing the advantages of using pharmaceutical drugs, it is essential to consider the severity of health […]
• Prevention Research: The Fight Against Drug Abuse It is agreeable that US’s ‘War on Drugs’ has been an effective substance abuse prevention plan despite the hiccups that the program faces and its inability to attain some of its designated mandates within the […]
• Reasons Behind Youth’s Engagement to Drug Abuse in the 21st Century Although youths in the 21st century engage in drug abuse due to several factors, it suffices to declare factors such as the rising unemployment status, peer pressure, and their hiked tendency to copy their parents’ […]
• Drug Abuse Among the Youth Essentially, this case study will allow the evaluation of the prevailing cases of drug abuse among the youth. In this regard, the pain and peer pleasure cannot be persevered to allow an explicit cure of […]
• Drug Abuse. “Nine Years Under” Book by Sheri Booker The book is thought provoking and important because it allows representing the difficult social situation and the problems of gang violence and drugs in the United States from the personal point of view.
• Drug Abuse, Aggression and Antisocial Behavior The use of abusive drugs can cause anger in people because of the effect they have on the brain. An example of how alcohol can cause aggression in a person is that it impairs an […]
• “Cocaine: Abuse and Addiction” by National Institute on Drug Abuse The literature provides us with a report of a research that has been conducted in the US regarding the topic of cocaine and drug abuse.
• Drug Abuse Effects on Health and Nervous System These numerous damages severely affect the quality of the brains work and the health of the nervous system. While discussing the effects of drug addiction, it is essential to notice that it has a devastating […]
• Drug Abuse and Prevention Strategies When specialists deal with preventative factors, they pay attention to both mental and physical ways to resist the drug. The symbiosis of these procedures is exceptionally efficient in terms of the drug rehabilitation process when […]
• Youth Drug Abuse Among, Education, and Policies Although drug abuse encompasses improper use of drugs disregarding the prescriptions of medical practitioners, the principal challenges of drug abuse occasion from abuse of drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana.
• Drug Abuse and Its Psychological Effects The purpose of this paper is to explore in more depth the psychological effects of addiction on the family and inner circle of the addict.
• Policies for Pregnant Women With Drug Abuse Thus, out of all the offered policies, financial support for therapy is the best one, as it motivates prevention and treatment, which, in turn, causes the improvement of this situation.
• The Formative Evaluation: Program of Addressing Drug Abuse in Schools The proposed program sought to educate students about the challenges of drug abuse, its impacts on academic performance, and the best techniques to avoid the vice.
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Canada Therefore, it contributes as a central factor in the essence of the character, and it is crucial to understand the core definition and the elements that foster the ideology.
• Mitigating Drug Abuse in Pine View School The inclusion of professionals in the fields of health care, counseling, and drugs is expected to promote the delivery of desirable results.
• Drug Abuse and Its Negative Effects This paper aims to highlight what the field of psychology says about the negative effects of drugs and why people continue using despite the consequences. The main effect is that it creates a memory of […]
• Prevention Programs: Drug Abuse Resistance Education This program focuses on handling peer pressure among youths, a crucial cause of drug abuse in the country. The program is also grounded on sound research, which offers the critical elements vital to handling the […]
• Drug Abuse in Lake County, California The topic of drug abuse is essential for discussion due to the need to develop strategies to prevent and minimize the dangerous consequences of drug abuse in different regions.
• Drug Abuse Among Homeless Young Adults in New Jersey The reason why young adults in New Jersey get involved in drugs and alcohol after becoming homeless is to manage their situations in an attempt to attain the tentative pleasure of life despite their problems. […]
• Community Intervention Practices against Drug Abuse The key features that result in successful community-based intervention on drug abuse are integrated for effectiveness and efficiency. On the other hand, drug abuse refers to the consumption of substances that elicit particular feelings and […]
• Teenage Drug Abuse in the United States The problem of teenage drug abuse inflicts a threat to the future society and health state of the overall population in the United States.
• Substance Abuse: Prevention Strategies and National Benchmarks Still, this desire to get away from problems by means of substances instead of making effort to improve an individual’s environment contributed to the evolution of the challenge of substance abuse into a real public […]
• Alcoholism, Domestic Violence and Drug Abuse Kaur and Ajinkya researched to investigate the “psychological impact of adult alcoholism on spouses and children”. The work of Kaur and Ajinkya, reveals a link between chronic alcoholism and emotional problems on the spouse and […]
• Monitoring the Future: National Survey Results on Drug Use National survey results on drug use obtained by Monitoring the Future have a significant value to the development of various approaches with regard to the prevention of drug abuse.
• The Health Issues Associated With Drug Abuse It is therefore imperative to develop strategies for health promotion to reduce the number of teenagers, the most at-risk family member when it comes to drug abuse.
• Fentanyl – Drug Profile and Specific and Drug Abuse The drug has the effect of depressing the respiratory center, constricting the pupils, as well as depressing the cough reflex. The remainder 75% of fentanyl is swallowed and absorbed in G-tract.
• Cases of Drug Abuse Amongst Nursing Professionals It is noteworthy that at the top of the information, the date posted is Monday, February 14, 2011, yet against the information, the date is February 11, 2011.
• The Treatment of Drug Abuse Any medical practitioner treating a drug abuse patient has to be careful in many aspects, like: He has to be careful on the issue that if the addiction has effected the brain of the patient.
• Drug Courts and Detoxification: Approach to Drug Abuse Treatment However, since 1989, the US federal system has been providing the majority of drug abusers with proper treatment or education with the help of a drug court option.
• Drug Abuse in Adolescents Aged 15-19 Years Old: A Public Health Menace In addition, the objectives of the paper are as follows: the first aim is to analyze the collected data and produce a review of the information.
• Drug Abuse in Adolescents and Its Causes Scientific research shows that the development factors for adolescent drug abuse are not limited to a set of three to five causes, but are usually linked to the integration of destructive environmental conditions.
• Drug Abuse and Addiction Holimon has succeeded in reviving some of her family relations, and she is still putting a lot of effort to get ahead in this area to the fullest extent possible.
• Sports as a Solution to Youth Substance Abuse: Dr. Collingwood’s View His comments made me realize that it would be unwise by the end of the day for any parent to leave their children under the mercy of the media where they learned that doing drugs […]
• Drug Abuse in High School and College With respect to social work and the problem of substance abuse, research has been carried out in terms of investigating the relationship between drug abuse and poverty, the effects of drug abuse on the society.
• Critical Issues in Education: Drug Abuse and Alcoholism For this case, the ministry concerned has a very hard task of ensuring there are no critical issues that are left unsolved that relate to education, failure to which will affect the performance of students […]
• Biopsychosocial Experience in Drug Abuse Treatment There has to be a preventive strategy in every intervention procedure to avoid the occurrence of a disease. I find the course of treatment in this intervention beneficial for the creation of the needed preventive […]
• Addictive Behavior Programs and Drug Abuse Trends The involvement of stakeholders is an essential condition for the effectiveness of this model of work and its results, and all the roles should be allocated in accordance with the capabilities of the program’s participants.
• Substance Misuse in American Youth: A Socio-Cultural Analysis The paper analyzes studies regarding some of the most widespread types of substances, as well as discusses the role of the rap culture in the growing number of young addicts in the U.S.
• Social Behaviour as a Science: Drug Abuse in Youth Thus, the application of social psychology to the phenomenon of youth drug abuse helps to explain how social factors impact the prevalence of and risk for drug abuse.
• Financial Planning for Drug Abuse Prevention in Virginia Estates Therefore, the first preferred sources for the program are the County Commission and the Alabama Department of Corrections. The program can be financed by the Montgomery County Commission in the short term and Alabama Department […]
• Problem of Drug Abuse in Schools The research worked on the hypothesis that the treatment would reduce or result in the total cessation of drug use, and better relations with family and friends.
• Prescription Drug Abuse in the United States The combination of Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are effective for the patients, who want to reduce and control the level of pain.
• Impact of Drug Abuse on Adolescent Development Therefore, it is important for counselors to consider these stages to help them address the issue of substance abuse among adolescents. In the habitual stage, most adolescents take drugs to help them modify their moods.
• Drug Abuse: Age, Gender and Addictive Susceptibility This incorporates the aspects of gender where males and females possess varying biological constitutions that might affect the prescribed treatments in the realms of addiction. It is important to consider the rapidity and susceptibility of […]
• Drug Abuse Prevention Programs Additionally, it is possible to prospect the success of the program in case the required readiness from the community can be unveiled prior to the program execution.
• The Cultural Context and Ethics of Prevention of Drug Abuse The first prevention strategy outlined in the document is the involvement of young people in all levels of the prevention program establishment. Concurrently, it is crucial to relate this technique with the subject of culture […]
• Use of Psychotropic Medications in the Treatment of Drug Abuse This is because the mental illness is, literally, the one that sustains the abuse of drugs and thus after it is healed; the patient will have no reason to continue abusing the drugs.
• Drug Abuse: Awareness Amongst the Youths This project is going to carry out a public awareness campaign with the aim of educating the young people on the hazards related to the vice of drug and substance abuse. The awareness campaign is […]
• A New Alcohol and Drug-Abuse Rehabilitation Center in Liverpool Hospital, Sydney The hospital, in response to this distress, has decided to bring help closer to the people of Liverpool by the construction of the annex facility.
• The Extent of Drug Abuse Among People in America Toronto Mayor Rob Ford Said He Lied about Crack Cocaine Use Because He Was Embarrassed Mayor lied about the use of crack cocaine The article titled “Toronto Mayor Rob Ford said he lied about crack […]
• Drug Use and Abuse in America: Historical Analysis The new law was similar to the Boggs Act of 1951 in that it employed the same formula of using perceived increase in drug use in the country.
• Drug Abuse as an Ethical Issue On the side of duties and obligations, the societal norms stipulate that individuals should be caring to other members of the society especially the children and the old.
• Drug Abuse and Society Regardless of the many intervention measures that can be adopted to solve this problem of drug abuse, the most effective intervention measure is to create awareness to youths to enable them change their behaviors and […]
• Prescription Painkillers, the New Drug Abuse of Choice Studies attribute the recent increase in the misuse of prescription drugs to an increase in the use of the Internet, which facilitates the growth of illegitimate online drug stores and uncontrolled online prescription drug sales.
• Music Analysis: Drug Abuse in Music So in this song the artist is also lamenting the dangers of drugs and the theme of the music is one that advocates against tackling the problem with issues of drug abuse by arguing the […]
• Drug Abuse: Comprehensive Review The effects associated with drug abuse tend to vary depending on an individual’s age and the phase of drug abuse that the person is in.
• Drug Abuse as a Social Problem This poses as problem to the society because many of the people who are unemployed will resort to different ways of seeking money and pleasure.
• Adolescent’s Drug Abuse and Therapy Success When one accepts to put up with negative peer pressure, they end up giving up the personal trusts and values thus the pressure becomes a form of a negative force.”Does peer pressure affect the decision […]
• What Are Influences That Cause Drug Abuse on Youth?
• What Are Some Solutions to Drug Abuse?
• What Are the Primary Causes and Effects of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Among Young People?
• What Causes Teenage Drug Abuse?
• What Does Drug Abuse Truly?
• Why Do Children Need to Be Educated About Drug Abuse?
• Why Has the American Government Not Managed to Stop Drug Abuse All These Years?
• How Does Drug Abuse Affect Personal Development of Hong Kong Teenagers?
• How Does Pericarditis Form Due to Drug Abuse?
• How Drug Abuse Ruins Families and Destroys Relationships?
• How Does Prescription Drug Abuse Affect Teens?
• Does the Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program Work?
• What Is the Drug of Abuse?
• What Are the Four Types of Drugs Abused?
• Which Is an Example of Drug Abuse?
• What Is the Leading Cause of Drug Abuse?
• What Are the Causes and Effects of Drug Abuse?
• What Are the Main Consequences of Drug Abuse?
• How Does Drug Abuse Affect Our Society?
• How Can We Prevent Drug Abuse?
• Why Is It Essential to Prevent Drugs?
• What Are the Ten Most Abused Drugs?
• How Do Drugs Affect Mental Health?
• What Are the Effects of Drug Abuse on Youths?
• What Is the Connection Between Adolescents From Divorced Families and Drug Abuse?
• Are Alcohol and Drug Abuse the Most Common Issues of Today?
• What Is Athletes’ Motivation for Performance-Enhancement Drug Abuse?
• What Is the Correlation Between Parietal and Adolescent Drug Abuse?
• How Is Dealing With Teenage Drug Abuse?
• What Is the Difference Between Drug Use and Drug Abuse?
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Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery

About the journal, aims & scope.

Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery (CRPHAR) is a new primary research, gold open access journal from Elsevier. CRPHAR publishes original papers, reviews, graphical reviews, short communications and follow-up manuscripts resulting from research in pharmacology and drug discovery that cover aspects of drug action at the cellular, molecular, and biochemical level.

Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery is a peer-reviewed gold open access (OA) journal and upon acceptance all articles are permanently and freely available. It is a companion to the highly regarded review journal Current Opinion in Pharmacology (2020 Journal Impact Factor 5.547, CiteScore 9.3) and is part of the Current Opinion and Research (CO+RE) suite of journals . All CO+RE journals leverage the Current Opinion legacy-of editorial excellence, high-impact, and global reach-to ensure they are a widely read resource that is integral to scientists' workflow.

Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery topics covered include neuropharmacology (psychiatry and neurodegeneration); sensory pharmacology (ocular, auditory and pain); cardiovascular; renal; respiratory; musculoskeletal; cancer; immunopharmacology (inflammation and innate immune system function); anti-infectives; gastrointestinal; endocrine; metabolic; systems pharmacology and signalling; drug metabolism; pharmaceutics and drug delivery; pharmacogenetics; analytical toxicology; pharmacokinetics; new technologies; and translational and clinical pharmacology.

Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery builds on Elsevier's reputation for excellence in scientific publishing and long-standing commitment to communicating reproducible biomedical research targeted at improving human health.

Expertise - Editors and Editorial Board bring depth and breadth of expertise and experience to the journal.

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Ethics in Publishing: General Statement

The Editor(s) and Publisher of this Journal believe that there are fundamental principles underlying scholarly or professional publishing. For more information, please refer to: https://www.elsevier.com/conflictsofinterest

Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery (CRPHAR) is a new primary research, gold open access journal from Elsevier. CRPHAR publishes original papers, reviews, graphical reviews, short communications and follow-up manuscripts resulting from research in pharmacology and drug discovery …

Article publishing charge for open access

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Cynthia Koziol-White, PhD

Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Department of Pharmacology, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America

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Articles in press, most downloaded, most popular, the potential of mirna-based approaches in glioblastoma: an update in current advances and future perspectives, molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential of natural flavonoids in diabetic nephropathy: modulation of intracellular developmental signaling pathways, the novel inhaled dual pde3 and pde4 inhibitor ensifentrine for the treatment of copd: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol on trough fev 1 and exacerbation according to prisma statement, ferroptosis induces nucleolar stress as revealed by live-cell imaging using thioflavin t, the relationship between gender and pharmacology, scaling approaches for the prediction of human clearance of lna-i-mir-221: a retrospective validation, gerd: latest update on acid-suppressant drugs, characterization of 2-((4-(chloromethyl)benzoyl)oxy)benzoate acid for analgesic tablet dosage form formulation, more from current research in pharmacology and drug discovery, announcements, call for papers, graphical reviews: a new way to publish your research in crphar, current research in pharmacology and drug discovery: diversity on the editorial board, calls for papers, targeting non-traditional gpcrs in drug discovery, special issues and article collections, pharmacological interactions: synergism, or not synergism, that is the question, covid-19 therapy, from lung disease to systemic disorder, non-coding rnas: human health and diseases, medical management of ibd, partner journals.

• 8.8 CiteScore
• 4.0 Impact Factor

Current Opinion in Pharmacology (COPHAR) publishes authoritative, comprehensive, and systematic reviews. COPHAR helps specialists keep up to date with a clear and readable synthesis on current advances in pharmacology and drug discovery. Expert authors annotate the most interesting papers from the …

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Pharmacology Research Paper Topics

In this page on pharmacology research paper topics , we explore the diverse and dynamic field of pharmacology and provide valuable resources for students who are tasked with writing research papers in this discipline. Pharmacology, as a branch of science, encompasses the study of how drugs interact with biological systems, aiming to understand their mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and potential side effects. With the growing importance of pharmacology in healthcare and drug development, it is crucial for students to delve into relevant pharmacology research paper topics that contribute to advancing knowledge and addressing current challenges in the field. Additionally, we highlight iResearchNet’s writing services, offering students the opportunity to order custom pharmacology research papers tailored to their specific needs. Our team of expert writers, equipped with in-depth knowledge of pharmacology and related fields, ensures high-quality, well-researched papers that adhere to the highest academic standards.

In the field of pharmacology, research plays a critical role in advancing our understanding of drugs, their mechanisms of action, and their impact on human health. As students of pharmacology, you may be tasked with writing research papers that explore various aspects of this dynamic discipline. To assist you in your research journey, we have curated a comprehensive list of pharmacology research paper topics that cover a wide range of subfields and emerging areas of interest. Whether you are interested in drug discovery, clinical pharmacology, pharmacogenomics, or drug safety, this list provides a wealth of ideas to inspire and guide your research endeavors.

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Drug Discovery and Development

• Role of Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery
• Personalized Medicine: Tailoring Drug Therapy to Individual Patients
• Drug Repurposing: Exploring New Indications for Existing Drugs
• Pharmacogenomics and Drug Response Prediction
• Nanomedicine: Applications in Drug Delivery and Targeting
• Innovative Approaches for Drug Formulation and Delivery
• Drug Combinations: Synergistic Effects and Therapeutic Opportunities
• Natural Products as Sources of Novel Therapeutic Agents
• Virtual Screening and Molecular Docking in Drug Design
• Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of New Drug Entities

Clinical Pharmacology

• Precision Dosing: Optimizing Drug Therapy for Individual Patients
• Pharmacokinetic Variability in Special Populations (Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Pregnant Women)
• Drug-Drug Interactions: Mechanisms and Clinical Implications
• Adverse Drug Reactions: Identification, Prevention, and Management
• Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Monitoring
• Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Rationale and Practical Considerations
• Clinical Trials in Pharmacology: Design, Implementation, and Analysis
• Drug Development and Regulatory Approval Processes
• Pharmacoeconomics: Evaluating the Cost-Effectiveness of Drug Therapy
• Ethical Considerations in Clinical Pharmacology Research

Neuropharmacology and Psychopharmacology

• Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Applications of Antidepressant Drugs
• Neurotransmitter Systems and Their Role in Mental Health Disorders
• Psychotropic Drugs and Their Impact on Cognitive Functioning
• Novel Approaches for Targeting Neurodegenerative Disorders
• Pharmacological Management of Substance Use Disorders
• Pharmacogenetics in Psychiatry: Implications for Individualized Treatment
• Role of Neuroinflammation in Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders
• Neuropharmacology of Sleep and Wakefulness
• Pharmacotherapy for Schizophrenia: Current Trends and Future Directions
• Novel Treatments for Anxiety and Mood Disorders

Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism

• Drug Transporters and Their Role in Drug Disposition
• Pharmacogenetics and Personalized Drug Therapy
• Pharmacokinetic Variability and Its Impact on Drug Response
• Drug Metabolism Pathways and Enzyme Polymorphisms
• Drug-Drug Interactions: Mechanisms and Clinical Significance
• Predictive Modeling in Pharmacokinetics and Dose Optimization
• Pharmacokinetics in Special Populations: Pediatrics and Geriatrics
• Impact of Genetic Variation on Drug Clearance and Toxicity
• Role of Pharmacokinetics in Individualizing Drug Dosage
• Strategies for Improving Oral Bioavailability of Drugs

Pharmacology of Infectious Diseases

• Antimicrobial Resistance: Mechanisms, Epidemiology, and Strategies
• Development of Novel Antiviral Agents: Challenges and Opportunities
• Pharmacotherapy for Bacterial Infections: Current Approaches and Future Directions
• Antifungal Drugs: Mechanisms of Action and Resistance
• Host-Pathogen Interactions and Their Implications for Drug Development
• Pharmacokinetic Considerations in the Treatment of Viral Infections
• Targeting Virulence Factors in Bacterial Pathogens
• Drug Combination Therapy for Multidrug-Resistant Infections
• Pharmacogenomics of Antimicrobial Agents
• New Approaches for Antiparasitic Drug Development

Cardiovascular Pharmacology

• Novel Antiplatelet Agents: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications
• Antihypertensive Therapy: Current Strategies and Future Perspectives
• Pharmacotherapy for Heart Failure: Advancements and Challenges
• Role of Pharmacogenomics in Cardiovascular Drug Therapy
• Therapeutic Potential of Antiarrhythmic Agents
• Pharmacological Management of Dyslipidemia and Atherosclerosis
• Emerging Therapies for Pulmonary Hypertension
• Pharmacological Approaches to Preventing Thromboembolic Disorders
• Cardiotoxicity of Chemotherapeutic Agents: Mechanisms and Cardioprotective Strategies
• Targeting Inflammatory Pathways in Cardiovascular Disease

Pharmacology and Aging

• Geriatric Pharmacotherapy: Challenges and Approaches
• Age-Related Changes in Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
• Polypharmacy and Its Impact on Older Adults
• Adverse Drug Reactions in the Elderly: Recognition and Prevention
• Pharmacological Management of Age-Related Neurodegenerative Disorders
• Geriatric Pharmacogenomics: Implications for Personalized Medicine
• Drug-Related Falls and Fractures in the Elderly: Prevention and Intervention
• Medication Adherence in Older Adults: Barriers and Strategies
• Geriatric Pain Management: Balancing Efficacy and Safety
• Optimizing Drug Therapy in Older Adults with Multiple Comorbidities

Pharmacology of Cancer

• Targeted Therapies for Solid Tumors: Recent Advances and Future Directions
• Immunotherapy in Cancer Treatment: Current Approaches and Challenges
• Pharmacogenomics of Chemotherapy: Implications for Personalized Treatment
• Drug Resistance in Cancer: Mechanisms and Strategies for Overcoming Resistance
• Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Anticancer Agents
• Combination Therapies in Oncology: Rationale and Clinical Outcomes
• Oncolytic Viruses: Exploiting Viral Infections for Cancer Treatment
• Cancer Stem Cells: Targeting Tumor Initiation and Progression
• Development of Novel Imaging Agents for Cancer Diagnosis and Monitoring
• Pharmacological Interventions for Cancer-Associated Pain Management

Pharmacology and Immunology

• Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Cancer Immunotherapy
• Autoimmune Diseases: Novel Pharmacological Approaches and Therapies
• Immunomodulatory Effects of Drugs: Implications for Therapeutic Interventions
• Role of Pharmacogenomics in Immunomodulatory Drug Therapy
• Immunopharmacology of Allergic Reactions: Mechanisms and Treatment Strategies
• Immunosuppressive Drugs in Transplantation: Balancing Efficacy and Safety
• Targeting Inflammatory Pathways in Autoimmune Disorders
• Immunopharmacological Interventions for Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacological Modulation of Cytokines in Inflammatory Disorders
• Vaccines: Advancements in Development and Delivery

Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety

• Post-Marketing Surveillance: Detecting and Evaluating Adverse Drug Reactions
• Signal Detection in Pharmacovigilance: Methods and Applications
• Risk Management Strategies in Drug Development and Marketing
• Pharmacogenomic Biomarkers for Predicting Drug Safety
• Pharmacovigilance in Special Populations: Pregnant Women and Pediatrics
• Drug Safety Communication: Enhancing Patient Awareness and Education
• Role of Pharmacovigilance in Drug Regulatory Affairs
• Pharmacovigilance Data Mining: Leveraging Big Data for Drug Safety
• Pharmacovigilance Systems and Reporting Structures
• Pharmacogenetic Testing in Drug Safety Assessment

This comprehensive list of pharmacology research paper topics provides a broad range of ideas and areas to explore within the field of pharmacology. From drug discovery and development to clinical pharmacology, neuropharmacology, and pharmacokinetics, each category offers multiple topics for students to delve into and contribute to the advancement of pharmacological knowledge. Whether you are interested in the impact of pharmacogenomics on drug therapy, exploring novel treatment strategies, or investigating drug safety and pharmacovigilance, there is a wealth of research possibilities awaiting exploration. By selecting a topic of interest and following the expert advice on topic selection and research paper writing, students can embark on an enriching journey of discovery and make meaningful contributions to the field of pharmacology.

Pharmacology: Exploring the Range of Research Paper Topics

Pharmacology is a captivating and dynamic scientific discipline that focuses on the study of drugs and their effects on living organisms. It plays a crucial role in improving human health by advancing our understanding of how medications interact with biological systems. Within the field of pharmacology, there is a vast array of pharmacology research paper topics that offer students an opportunity to delve into various aspects of drug discovery, development, clinical application, and safety. In this article, we will explore the breadth and depth of pharmacology as a scientific field, highlighting the range of research paper topics it encompasses.

Drug Discovery and Development:  One exciting area of pharmacology research is drug discovery and development. This field involves the identification and development of new therapeutic agents to treat a wide range of diseases. Students interested in this area can explore topics such as the exploration of novel drug targets and therapeutic approaches, investigating natural products for drug development, advancements in targeted drug delivery systems, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of new drug entities, and understanding and overcoming drug resistance mechanisms.

Clinical Pharmacology:  Clinical pharmacology focuses on the application of pharmacological principles in the clinical setting. It plays a vital role in optimizing drug therapy and ensuring patient safety. Pharmacology research paper topics in this area may include pharmacogenomics, which explores the relationship between an individual’s genetic makeup and their response to medication. Other topics of interest include the identification, prevention, and management of adverse drug reactions, the design and ethical considerations in clinical trials, pharmacovigilance, and optimizing drug regimens for special populations such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and pregnant women.

Neuropharmacology and Psychopharmacology:  The field of neuropharmacology examines how drugs interact with the central nervous system and influence brain function. Pharmacology research paper topics in this area may involve investigating the mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications of psychotropic drugs, exploring neurotransmitter systems and their role in neurological disorders, pharmacological interventions for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders, the psychopharmacology of substance use disorders, and the pharmacological management of mental health disorders.

Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism:  Pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism focus on understanding how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body. Pharmacology research paper topics in this area may include studying drug interactions, such as the mechanisms, predictions, and clinical implications of drug-drug interactions. Other topics of interest include pharmacogenetics and individual variations in drug response, the role of drug transporters in drug disposition, drug metabolism and its impact on drug-drug interactions, and the use of predictive modeling in pharmacokinetics and dosing optimization.

Pharmacology of Infectious Diseases:  The pharmacology of infectious diseases involves studying how drugs can effectively treat and prevent infections. Research topics in this area may include exploring antimicrobial resistance, including its mechanisms, epidemiology, and strategies to combat it. Additionally, students may investigate the development of new antiviral agents, the pharmacological management of bacterial infections, host-pathogen interactions, and the pharmacokinetic considerations in the treatment of infectious diseases.

Cardiovascular Pharmacology:  Cardiovascular pharmacology focuses on understanding the effects of drugs on the cardiovascular system. Research topics in this area may include exploring drug therapy for hypertension and current guidelines for treatment, novel anticoagulants in the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders, pharmacological approaches to managing heart failure, drug-induced cardiotoxicity and strategies for prevention, and emerging pharmacotherapies for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.

Pharmacology and Aging:  Pharmacology and aging is a specialized field that investigates how drug therapy can be optimized in older adults. Research topics in this area may include exploring geriatric pharmacotherapy, age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, the impact of polypharmacy on older adults, the recognition and prevention of adverse drug reactions, pharmacological management of age-related neurodegenerative disorders, and strategies for improving medication adherence in the elderly.

The field of pharmacology offers a wide range of exciting research paper topics that span from drug discovery and development to clinical pharmacology, neuropharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and beyond. By exploring these topics, students can contribute to the advancement of pharmacological knowledge and make meaningful contributions to the field. Remember to choose a research topic that aligns with your interests and career aspirations, and be sure to consult with your instructors or mentors for guidance throughout your research journey. With dedication, curiosity, and a passion for improving patient care, you have the opportunity to shape the future of pharmacology research.

How to Choose a Pharmacology Research Topic

Choosing the right research paper topic is crucial for a successful academic journey in pharmacology. It allows you to explore your interests, contribute to the field, and showcase your knowledge and skills. However, with the vast scope of pharmacology, selecting a research topic can be a daunting task. In this section, we will provide you with expert advice on how to choose pharmacology research paper topics that are engaging, relevant, and have the potential for significant contribution.

• Identify Your Interests : Start by identifying your areas of interest within pharmacology. Reflect on the topics that have captivated your attention during your coursework or sparked your curiosity. Consider whether you are more inclined towards drug discovery, clinical applications, pharmacokinetics, neuropharmacology, or any other subfield of pharmacology. This self-reflection will help you narrow down your options and select a topic that resonates with your passion.
• Stay Updated with Current Research : To choose a compelling research topic, it is essential to stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in pharmacology. Follow reputable scientific journals, attend conferences, and engage with the pharmacological community to gain insights into the ongoing research and emerging areas of interest. This will help you identify gaps in the current knowledge and select a topic that offers the potential for novel discoveries or addressing existing challenges.
• Consult with Faculty and Experts : Seek guidance from your faculty members, mentors, or experts in the field of pharmacology. They can provide valuable insights and suggest potential research areas based on their expertise and experience. Discuss your interests, goals, and research aspirations with them, and they can help you refine your research topic, provide relevant literature references, and offer valuable advice on the feasibility and scope of your chosen topic.
• Consider Practicality and Resources : When selecting a research topic, consider the practicality and availability of resources. Assess whether the necessary laboratory facilities, equipment, or access to clinical data are readily accessible to conduct your research. Additionally, consider the time and resources required to complete the research within the given timeframe. Choosing a topic that aligns with the available resources will enhance the feasibility and success of your research endeavor.
• Address Current Challenges or Gaps : Pharmacology is a field that constantly evolves, presenting new challenges and unanswered questions. Consider selecting a research topic that addresses current challenges or explores gaps in the existing knowledge. This could involve investigating the mechanisms of drug resistance, exploring novel drug targets, or optimizing drug regimens for specific patient populations. By tackling these challenges, you can contribute to the advancement of pharmacological science and make a meaningful impact.
• Collaborate with Peers : Consider collaborating with fellow students or researchers who share similar research interests. Collaborative research projects can provide a broader perspective, foster knowledge sharing, and enhance the overall quality of your research. Collaborating with peers also allows you to divide the workload, share resources, and receive feedback and support throughout the research process.
• Seek Ethical Considerations : When selecting a pharmacology research topic, it is essential to consider ethical considerations and adhere to the principles of research ethics. Ensure that your chosen topic respects patient confidentiality, follows the guidelines for the ethical use of animal subjects (if applicable), and aligns with the ethical principles outlined by regulatory bodies. Consulting with your institution’s ethics committee or research advisor can help ensure that your research project meets the required ethical standards.
• Evaluate Feasibility and Novelty : Evaluate the feasibility and novelty of your chosen research topic. Consider whether the research question is answerable within the available resources and time constraints. Additionally, assess whether your topic brings something new to the field, whether it fills a knowledge gap, or offers a fresh perspective on an existing topic. A balance between feasibility and novelty is essential for a successful research paper.
• Consult Literature Reviews : Conduct thorough literature reviews on your chosen topic to gain a comprehensive understanding of the existing research. Literature reviews help you identify gaps in the current knowledge and provide a foundation for your research question. They also enable you to build on previous findings, develop a robust research methodology, and position your research within the context of the broader field of pharmacology.
• Remain Flexible : Lastly, remain flexible throughout the process of choosing a research topic. As you delve deeper into the literature and research process, you may discover new avenues of interest or encounter unexpected challenges. It is essential to remain open to refining or adjusting your research topic based on new insights, emerging data, or feedback from your research advisors. Flexibility allows you to adapt and ensure that your research remains relevant and impactful.

Choosing a pharmacology research paper topic is an exciting and important step in your academic journey. By following expert advice, identifying your interests, staying updated with current research, seeking guidance, considering practicality and resources, addressing current challenges or gaps, collaborating with peers, adhering to ethical considerations, evaluating feasibility and novelty, consulting literature reviews, and remaining flexible, you can select a research topic that is engaging, relevant, and has the potential to contribute to the field of pharmacology. Remember, this is your opportunity to explore, innovate, and make a lasting impact in the dynamic field of pharmacology research.

How to Write a Pharmacology Research Paper

Writing a pharmacology research paper requires careful planning, organization, and attention to detail. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your understanding of the subject matter, critical thinking skills, and ability to communicate scientific information effectively. In this section, we will provide you with expert guidance on how to write a pharmacology research paper that is well-structured, informative, and compelling.

• Choose a Well-Defined Research Question : Start by formulating a clear and well-defined research question. Your research question should be focused, specific, and address a gap in the existing knowledge. Consider the significance of your research question in the context of pharmacology and how it contributes to the overall understanding of the field. A well-defined research question sets the foundation for your entire research paper.
• Conduct a Thorough Literature Review : Before diving into your research, conduct a thorough literature review on the chosen topic. Familiarize yourself with the existing research, theories, and findings related to your research question. This will provide you with a solid understanding of the current state of knowledge and help you identify gaps or areas for further investigation. Additionally, the literature review will inform your research methodology and discussion of results.
• Develop a Clear Structure : A well-structured research paper is essential for effectively conveying your ideas and findings. Begin with an engaging introduction that provides background information, context, and clearly states your research question. Follow with a comprehensive literature review that supports your research question and highlights the gaps in knowledge. Next, present your research methodology, including details on sample selection, data collection, and analysis methods. In the results section, present your findings in a clear and organized manner using tables, graphs, or figures as necessary. Finally, discuss your results, interpret their significance, and relate them back to your research question in the discussion section. Conclude with a concise summary of your findings and their implications.
• Use Reliable and Credible Sources : Ensure that the sources you use for your research paper are reliable, credible, and peer-reviewed. Consult reputable scientific journals, textbooks, and conference proceedings. Avoid relying solely on internet sources or non-scholarly publications. Citations are critical to acknowledge the work of other researchers and to support your claims and arguments. Use a consistent citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, and follow the guidelines carefully.
• Analyze and Interpret Your Data : If your research involves collecting and analyzing data, ensure that your data analysis is thorough and accurate. Use appropriate statistical methods to analyze your data and present the results in a clear and meaningful way. Interpret the findings in the context of your research question and discuss any limitations or potential sources of bias. Remember to relate your findings back to the existing literature and explain how they contribute to the broader understanding of pharmacology.
• Write Clearly and Concisely : Effective scientific writing is clear, concise, and free of unnecessary jargon. Use language that is precise and straightforward, avoiding ambiguous or vague statements. Clearly articulate your ideas and ensure that your arguments are logical and well-supported by evidence. Use appropriate scientific terminology, but also consider your target audience and strive to communicate your findings in a way that is accessible to readers who may not have expertise in pharmacology.
• Pay Attention to Formatting and Style : Follow the formatting and style guidelines specified by your instructor or the target journal. Pay attention to details such as font size, line spacing, margins, and headings. Use subheadings to organize your content and make it easier for readers to navigate. Adhere to the specific citation style required for your paper and ensure that your references are complete and accurate.
• Revise and Edit : Revision and editing are essential steps in the writing process. Take the time to review your research paper for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation errors. Ensure that your ideas flow logically and that your paper is well-structured. Consider seeking feedback from peers, instructors, or mentors to gain different perspectives and improve the overall quality of your paper.
• Proofread : Before submitting your research paper, thoroughly proofread it to ensure that it is error-free. Check for any typos, inconsistencies, or formatting issues. Read your paper aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences. It can also be helpful to have someone else read your paper to identify any errors or areas that need improvement.
• Ethical Considerations : Ensure that your research paper adheres to ethical considerations. If your research involved human subjects, ensure that you have obtained the necessary approvals and informed consent. Respect patient confidentiality and anonymity when presenting your research findings. Adhere to the ethical guidelines set by your institution or the relevant regulatory bodies.

Writing a pharmacology research paper requires careful planning, thorough research, effective communication, and attention to detail. By following the expert advice provided in this section, you can develop a well-structured and informative research paper that contributes to the field of pharmacology. Remember to choose a well-defined research question, conduct a thorough literature review, use reliable sources, analyze and interpret your data, write clearly and concisely, pay attention to formatting and style, revise and edit your paper, proofread for errors, and ensure ethical considerations are met. With diligence and commitment, your pharmacology research paper has the potential to make a meaningful impact in the field of pharmacology.

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• Signs of Addiction

Addiction Research

Discover the latest in addiction research, from the neuroscience of substance use disorders to evidence-based treatment practices. reports, updates, case studies and white papers are available to you at hazelden betty ford’s butler center for research..

Why do people become addicted to alcohol and other drugs? How effective is addiction treatment? What makes certain substances so addictive? The Butler Center for Research at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation investigates these and other questions and publishes its scientific findings in a variety of alcohol and drug addiction research papers and reports. Research topics include:

• Evidence-based treatment practices
• Addiction treatment outcomes
• Addiction, psychiatry and the brain
• Addictive substances such as prescription opioids and heroin
• Substance abuse in youth/teens, older adults and other demographic groups such as health care or legal professionals

These research queries and findings are presented in the form of updates, white papers and case studies. In addition, the Butler Center for Research collaborates with the Recovery Advocacy team to study special-focus addiction research topics, summarized in monthly  Emerging Drug Trends  reports. Altogether, these studies provide the latest in addiction research for anyone interested in learning more about the neuroscience of addiction and how addiction affects individuals, families and society in general. The research also helps clinicians and health care professionals further understand, diagnose and treat drug and alcohol addiction. Learn more about each of the Butler Center's addiction research studies below.

Research Updates

Written by Butler Center for Research staff, our one-page, topic-specific summaries discuss current research on topics of interest within the drug abuse and addiction treatment field.

View our most recent updates, or view the archive at the bottom of the page.

Patient Outcomes Study Results at Hazelden Betty Ford

Trends and Patterns in Cannabis Use across Different Age Groups

Alcohol and Tobacco Harm Reduction Interventions

Harm Reduction: History and Context

Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities and Addiction

Psychedelics as Therapeutic Treatment

Sexual and Gender Minority Youth and SUDs

Health Care Professionals and Mental Health

Grief and Addiction

Helping Families Cope with Addiction

Emerging Drug Trends Report and National Surveys

Shedding New Light on America’s No. 1 Health Problem

In collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Public Health and with support from the Butler Center for Research, the Recovery Advocacy team routinely issues research reports on emerging drug trends in America. Recovery Advocacy also commissions national surveys on attitudes, behaviors and perspectives related to substance use. From binge drinking and excessive alcohol use on college campuses, to marijuana potency concerns in an age of legalized marijuana, deeper analysis and understanding of emerging drug trends allows for greater opportunities to educate, inform and prevent misuse and deaths.

Each drug trends report explores the topic at hand, documenting the prevalence of the problem, relevant demographics, prevention and treatment options available, as well as providing insight and perspectives from thought leaders throughout the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.

View the latest  Emerging Drug Trends  Report:

Pediatricians First Responders for Preventing Substance Use

• Clearing Away the Confusion: Marijuana Is Not a Public Health Solution to the Opioid Crisis
• Does Socioeconomic Advantage Lessen the Risk of Adolescent Substance Use?
• The Collegiate Recovery Movement Is Gaining Strength
• Considerations for Policymakers Regarding Involuntary Commitment for Substance Use Disorders
• Widening the Lens on the Opioid Crisis
• Concerns Rising Over High-Potency Marijuana Use
• Beyond Binging: “High-Intensity Drinking”

View the latest  National Surveys :

• College Administrators See Problems As More Students View Marijuana As Safe

College Parents See Serious Problems From Campus Alcohol Use

• Youth Opioid Study: Attitudes and Usage

About Recovery Advocacy

Our mission is to provide a trusted national voice on all issues related to addiction prevention, treatment and recovery, and to facilitate conversation among those in recovery, those still suffering and society at large. We are committed to smashing stigma, shaping public policy and educating people everywhere about the problems of addiction and the promise of recovery. Learn more about recovery advocacy and how you can make a difference.

Evidence-Based Treatment Series

To help get consumers and clinicians on the same page, the Butler Center for Research has created a series of informational summaries describing:

• Evidence-based addiction treatment modalities
• Distinctive levels of substance use disorder treatment
• Specialized drug and alcohol treatment programs

Each evidence-based treatment series summary includes:

• A definition of the therapeutic approach, level of care or specialized program
• A discussion of applicability, usage and practice
• A description of outcomes and efficacy
• Research citations and related resources for more information

View the latest in this series:

Motivational Interviewing

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Case Studies and White Papers

Written by Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation researchers and clinicians, case studies and white papers presented by the Butler Center for Research provide invaluable insight into clinical processes and complex issues related to addiction prevention, treatment and recovery. These in-depth reports examine and chronicle clinical activities, initiatives and developments as a means of informing practitioners and continually improving the quality and delivery of substance use disorder services and related resources and initiatives.

• What does it really mean to be providing medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction?

Adolescent Motivational Interviewing

Peer Recovery Support: Walking the Path Together

Addiction and Violence During COVID-19

The Brain Disease Model of Addiction

Healthcare Professionals and Compassion Fatigue

Moving to Trauma-Responsive Care

Virtual Intensive Outpatient Outcomes: Preliminary Findings

Driving Under the Influence of Cannabis

Vaping and E-Cigarettes

Using Telehealth for Addiction Treatment

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Substance Use Disorders Among Military Populations

Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

Women and Alcohol

Prescription Rates of Opioid Analgesics in Medical Treatment Settings

Applications of Positive Psychology to Substance Use Disorder

Substance Use Disorders Among Legal Professionals

Factors Impacting Early Alcohol and Drug Use Among Youths

Animal-Assisted Therapy for Substance Use Disorders

Prevalence of Adolescent Substance Misuse

Problem Drinking Behaviors Among College Students

The Importance of Recovery Management

Substance Use Factors Among LGBTQ individuals

Prescription Opioids and Dependence

Alcohol Abuse Among Law Enforcement Officers

Helping Families Cope with Substance Dependence

The Social Norms Approach to Student Substance Abuse Prevention

Drug Abuse, Dopamine and the Brain's Reward System

Women and Substance Abuse

Substance Use in the Workplace

Health Care Professionals: Addiction and Treatment

Cognitive Improvement and Alcohol Recovery

Drug Use, Misuse and Dependence Among Older Adults

Emerging Drug Trends

Does Socioeconomic Advantage Lessen the Risk of Adolescent Substance Use

The Collegiate Recovery Movement is Gaining Strength

Involuntary Commitment for Substance Use Disorders

Widening the Lens of the Opioid Crisis

Beyond Binge Drinking: High Intensity Drinking

High Potency Marijuana

National Surveys

College Administrators See Problems as More Students View Marijuana as Safe

Risky Opioid Use Among College-Age Youth

Case Studies/ White Papers

What does it really mean to be providing medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction

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Harnessing science, love and the wisdom of lived experience, we are a force of healing and hope ​​​​​​​for individuals, families and communities affected by substance use and mental health conditions..

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Use some of the questions below to help you narrow this broad topic. See "substance abuse" in our Developing Research Questions guide for an example of research questions on a focused study of drug abuse. 

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• National Institute on Drug Abuse NIDA's mission is to lead the nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction. This charge has two critical components. The first is the strategic support and conduct of research across a broad range of disciplines. The second is ensuring the rapid and effective dissemination and use of the results of that research to significantly improve prevention and treatment and to inform policy as it relates to drug abuse and addiction.
• Drug Free America Foundation Drug Free America Foundation, Inc. is a drug prevention and policy organization committed to developing, promoting and sustaining national and international policies and laws that will reduce illegal drug use and drug addiction.
• Office of National Drug Control Policy A component of the Executive Office of the President, ONDCP was created by the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. ONDCP advises the President on drug-control issues, coordinates drug-control activities and related funding across the Federal government, and produces the annual National Drug Control Strategy, which outlines Administration efforts to reduce illicit drug use, manufacturing and trafficking, drug-related crime and violence, and drug-related health consequences.
• Drug Policy Alliance The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) is the nation's leading organization promoting alternatives to current drug policy that are grounded in science, compassion, health and human rights.

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There are several interdisciplinary research topics that bisect drugs and pharmacology. The most common of these are:

• Pharmaceutical Industry - focuses on the business structure, regulation, economics, and entities involved in the development, production and sale of drugs
• Complementary & Alternative Medicine - focuses on the therapeutic use of herbal, homeopathic, or nutritional remedies and integrative modalities to treat illness and promote health
• Substance Abuse - focuses on the recurrent use of alcohol or illicit drugs or the misuse of prescription drugs causing clinically significant impairment, including physical and mental health issues, disability, and death

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• Cannabis refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant. The plant has many different chemical compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which has intoxicating—mind altering—effects.
• Cannabis products with THC can cause changes in mood, thoughts, and perceptions of reality. These products can also cause harmful health effects on the brain and other parts of the body. In recent years, there have been big increases in the variety of cannabis products and how much THC they have, as well as a greater variety of ways people can consume them. Unless mentioned otherwise, the information on this webpage is about cannabis products with THC.
• NIDA funds research on the health effects of cannabis products, including impacts on the developing brain and on mental health . The institute also supports research on prevention and treatments for cannabis use disorder , the potential therapeutic uses of cannabis, and the public health impacts of cannabis policies.

What is cannabis?

Cannabis, which some people call marijuana, refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the Cannabis sativa L plant. The plant contains at least 125 different cannabinoids, 1 including delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Delta-9 THC is the most abundant form of THC in the cannabis plant. It has intoxicating effects, meaning it can temporarily alter a person’s mood, thoughts, and perceptions.

The Cannabis sativa L plant also contains non-intoxicating cannabinoid compounds like cannabidiol (CBD). CBD products are marketed for a variety of uses. Cannabis sativa L plants containing very small, non-intoxicating amounts of delta-9 THC, which are also called hemp, are mainly used for textile fiber and for their edible seed oils. Unless mentioned otherwise, the information on this webpage is only about cannabis products containing intoxicating amounts of delta-9 THC.

How do people use cannabis?

People commonly use cannabis by smoking dried plant material (“buds” or “herb”) in joints like a cigarette, in blunts—cigars or cigar wrappers that have been partly or completely refilled with cannabis—or in pipes or bongs (water pipes). Dried cannabis can also be vaped using electronic vaporizing devices such as dry herb vaporizers and vape pens.

However, along with the cannabis plant flower, there are many products made from the cannabis plant and new ones are constantly being developed and sold. These include:

• Oils and concentrates. Compounds in cannabis can also be extracted to make oils and concentrates that can be vaped or inhaled with devices that are like e-cigarettes. Smoking or vaporizing highly concentrated oils or extracts, also called wax or shatter, from the cannabis plant is known as dabbing. Dabbing can rapidly deliver large amounts of THC to the body, which increases the risk of negative side effects.
• Edibles. Cannabis can also be mixed or added to foods like baked goods, candies, gummies, and drinks. Edibles typically take longer to show effects. People may use more of a product as a result, increasing the likelihood of serious negative health effects.
• Tinctures. Tinctures are cannabis-infused alcohol or oils consumed in small amounts under the tongue or by adding to foods or drinks. This form of cannabis can also deliver large amounts of THC to the body.
• Lotions and balms. These are products applied directly to the skin. 2

Are cannabis products getting stronger?

Yes. Between 1995 and 2022 the delta-9 THC potency (strength) in illegal cannabis products seized by law enforcement quadrupled from 3.96% to 16.14%. Cannabis flower and concentrates in dispensaries can have THC concentrations of more than 40%. 3 Higher THC concentrations have been associated with a greater likelihood of cannabis use progressing to cannabis use disorder, among other health concerns. 4

What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC is another intoxicating cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Delta-8 THC products have not been FDA-approved for safe use. Eating large amounts of products containing delta-8-THC has led to medical emergencies, including breathing problems 5,6 . There is limited research on the health effects delta-8-THC and other intoxicating cannabinoids and related compounds, including delta-10-THC, THC-O-acetate, THCV, THCP, HHC, HHC-O-acetate, HHCP, and CBN.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD is marketed as an ingredient in many consumer products, including supplements, foods, oils, and lotions. CBD is not intoxicating like THC. 7 However, it may have side effects including drowsiness, decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. 8 Products have been found to contain different amounts of CBD than their labels show, and some products marketed as CBD have been found to contain THC. 9 Read more about CBD on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

What are synthetic cannabinoids?

Synthetic cannabinoids, which are lab-made substances that are chemically similar to compounds found in the cannabis plant, can produce serious negative health effects. 10 These products, which are also known as Spice or K2, may have a much higher concentration of THC and can be much more powerful. Use of synthetic cannabinoids is associated with severe, potentially life-threatening health effects. 11,12

Cannabis Has a Wide Variety of Effects

Cannabis may affect people differently depending on: 13,14,15,16

• The amount taken.
• Potency (concentration of THC).
• A product’s ingredients.
• The way it is ingested.
• Other drugs a person may have taken.
• A person’s underlying medical conditions.
• Age, sex, and genetic differences.
• A person’s experience with cannabis use.

What are the short-term health effects of cannabis use?

Intoxication.

Many people use cannabis to feel intoxicated or “high”. 17 Cannabis can make people feel more happy or relaxed. Cannabis can cause altered time perception, and impaired thinking, memory, and body movement. It can also it can also make people feel more irritable or restless. 18

Anxiety, Fear, Distrust, Panic, or Hallucinations

These effects are more common when a person takes a large amount, the cannabis product is strong (has a high level of THC), or the person has little experience with using cannabis. 19,20,21

Physical Side Effects

Commonly reported symptoms of cannabis use include increased appetite. 22 Research shows that cannabis use may help manage symptoms of nausea or vomiting, common side effects of chemotherapy. 23 However, other side effects may include an elevated heart rate and respiratory problems. 20,24

Children eating cannabis edibles, such as gummies, is a growing health concern. This usually happens by accident and can result in hospitalization and serious illness. 25,26 Eating large amounts of products containing delta-8-THC has led to medical emergencies, including among children. 27,28

What are the long-term health risks of cannabis use?

Harms to lung health.

The smoke from cannabis products contains many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens as tobacco smoke, and smoking cannabis can also harm lung tissue. 29,30 Long-term cannabis smoking is associated with respiratory issues such as large airway inflammation, increased airway resistance, lung hyperinflation, and chronic bronchitis. 31,32,33 However, more research is needed, as high rates of tobacco use among people who also use cannabis make it hard to distinguish the effects of cannabis alone. 34,33

Mental Health Effects

Cannabis use has been linked to certain mental health conditions. Read more about cannabis use and mental health .

Cardiovascular Effects

Cannabis can increase heart rate and blood pressure right after use. Some research shows an association between long-term cannabis use and an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and arrythmias. 35,36 However, more research is needed to determine if there is a direct connection between cannabis use and cardiovascular disease, or if other factors are involved. 37

Gastrointestinal Problems

These include cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), which is when a person has nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain after long-term, heavy cannabis use. 38 Other potential gastrointestinal issues include acid reflux, pancreatitis, and peptic ulcer disease. 39

Increased Cancer Risk

Research has linked the use of cannabis products with an increased likelihood of developing head, neck, or throat cancer, 40 particularly in people who smoke cannabis. 41

What is the relationship between cannabis use and mental health?

Frequent or heavy cannabis use has been linked to problems in cognitive functions like learning and memory, attention, processing speed, perceptual motor function, and language. 42,43,44,45

Some evidence has linked cannabis use to earlier onset of psychosis in people with genetic risk factors for psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, as well as worse symptoms in people who already have these conditions. The association between heavy cannabis use and schizophrenia has been found to be especially strong in young males compared to females. Cannabis intoxication can also induce a temporary psychotic episode in some people, especially at high doses. Experiencing such an episode may be linked with developing a psychotic disorder later in life. 46

Some research has also shown an increased risk of depression in people who use cannabis during adolescence. 47 Research has also linked cannabis use with suicidal thoughts and behaviors among teens 48 and military veterans in the United States. 49,50

While people with mental health disorders and related symptoms are more likely to use cannabis, 51 many factors that influence mental health—such as genes, trauma, and stress—also influence how likely someone is to use drugs, including cannabis. Given these related genetic and environmental vulnerabilities, additional data from prospective, longitudinal research (studies that measure participants’ health over long periods of time) are needed to determine whether, to what extent, and for whom cannabis may cause or contribute to poor mental health outcomes.

What is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome?

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is when a person has nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain after long-term, heavy cannabis use. 40 It can recur and often requires medical attention. People sometimes try to temporarily relieve their symptoms by taking hot showers or baths. However, CHS only resolves when a person stops using cannabis completely. 52,53

What are the effects of secondhand exposure from cannabis smoke or vapor?

Secondhand smoke from cannabis products has many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens as secondhand tobacco smoke. 54 In some environments, secondhand cannabis smoke can produce positive cannabis drug test results. 55 One study in a well-ventilated coffee shop found low levels of THC in the blood of non-smoking bystanders. 56

Secondhand exposure can also produce positive urine tests. 57,58 This is also true for children. Positive urine tests have been reported in children exposed to secondhand cannabis in their homes or in attached homes, 59 which can lead to respiratory infections. 60

Does cannabis use during pregnancy affect a developing baby?

The use of cannabis during pregnancy may have harmful effects on a baby’s health after birth. Research has linked it with lower birth weight, preterm birth, hospitalization, death within one year of birth, and other negative outcomes. 61,62  Given the potential of cannabis to negatively impact the developing brain, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that obstetrician-gynecologists counsel women against using cannabis while trying to get pregnant, during pregnancy, and while they are breastfeeding.

NIDA supports the HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study , which will follow a large population of mothers and their infants from the prenatal period through age 10. This study aims to better understand healthy development and shed light on how early exposure to cannabis and other substances, stressors, and trauma affect brain development and mental health, and how to reduce adverse outcomes.

Is cannabis addictive?

Chronic, heavy—every day or almost—use of cannabis products with THC is associated with developing cannabis use disorder, a type of substance use disorder. Studies have estimated that 22% to 30% of people who use cannabis have the disorder. 63,64 The strongest predictor of cannabis use disorder is how often someone uses it, but other factors, like a family history of drug use and how long a person has been using cannabis, can also play a role. 65

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)—a reference text published by the American Psychiatric Association that health professionals use to diagnose substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders—defines cannabis use disorder as a pattern of use that leads to clinically significant impairment or distress. This means a person has had two or more of the following symptoms in a 12-month period:

• Using cannabis in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
• Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control cannabis use.
• Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from the effects of cannabis.
• Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use cannabis.
• Using cannabis even though it causes problems at work, school, or home.
• Continuing to use cannabis despite social or relationship problems.
• Giving up important hobbies, or activities with friends and family, or in the workplace to use cannabis.
• Using cannabis in situations with risk of injury.
• Continued use despite knowing that ongoing physical or psychological problems have been caused or worsened by cannabis use.
• Cannabis tolerance, which is a need for increased amounts of cannabis to achieve the desired effect.
• Withdrawal symptoms after stopping cannabis use.

Cannabis use disorder can be diagnosed as mild (when a person has two or three of these symptoms), moderate (four or five of these symptoms), or severe (six or more of these symptoms).

Can people have cannabis withdrawal symptoms?

A person may have withdrawal symptoms after stopping or significantly decreasing heavy or long-term cannabis use, even if they don’t have cannabis use disorder. One study estimated that 12.1% of people who frequently use cannabis experience cannabis withdrawal. 66 Withdrawal symptoms may include anger, irritability, aggression, feeling nervous or anxious, restlessness, decreased appetite or weight, depression, insomnia, experiencing strange or unsettling dreams, headaches, sweating, abdominal pain, and tremor. 65,67

Are there treatments for cannabis use disorder?

Research shows that behavioral interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and contingency management can be effective in treating cannabis use disorder. 68 Read more about behavioral treatments for substance use disorders on the National Institute of Mental Health website. There are currently no FDA-approved medications for the treatment of cannabis use disorder or for medically assisted withdrawal, 69 but research is ongoing.

Is cannabis a “gateway” drug?

Cannabis products are among the first substances along with alcohol and tobacco that a person will likely encounter in their life ( MTF, 2023 ), and people who use substances commonly use these before trying others. Still, most people who use or have used cannabis do not go on to use other substances later in life. 71

However, risk factors for cannabis use are similar to risk factors for use of other drugs with addiction potential, 72 and studies have associated use of cannabis with developing cannabis use disorder . Using these products at a younger age in particular increases the likelihood of developing a cannabis use disorder later in life. 73,74 In addition, using cannabis may cause brain changes that can make a person more likely to develop an addiction to other drugs. 75

Does cannabis use affect driving?

Studies have found that using cannabis may affect a person’s ability to drive. 76  It is the drug most frequently found in the blood of drivers involved in motor vehicle crashes, including fatal ones. 77 A number of research analyses have found that the risk of being involved in a crash increased after cannabis use. 76,78,79 However, a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found no significant increased crash risk attributable to cannabis use. 80

How does cannabis use impact adolescents?

Adolescence is an important period of brain development, and cannabis use may influence the brain in ways that could lead to long-term harmful effects. 81,82 Studies show that regular, heavy cannabis use in adolescence is associated with negative effects on working memory, processing speed, 83 verbal memory, 84  and academic functioning. 85  It is also associated with negative effects on educational attainment, employment, and income in young adulthood. 86

Cannabis use at a young age has also been linked to other mental health conditions, including the likelihood of developing psychosis 87 and to developing cannabis use disorder later in life.

The NIDA-funded Monitoring the Future survey measures drug and alcohol use and related attitudes among adolescent students nationwide. Find recent survey data related to cannabis use here. NIDA supports the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development SM Study (ABCD Study ® ) , which follows nearly 12,000 children ages 9 and 10—before substance use typically begins—into young adulthood.

The ABCD Study ® explores the effects of environmental, social, genetic, and other biological factors on the developing adolescent brain. This study will provide critical insights into risk and resilience factors for cannabis and other substance use to inform future prevention interventions. See ABCD Study ® results on cannabis exposure for more information.

How does cannabis use impact older adults?

In recent years, adults aged 50 years or older have had the largest increase in cannabis use compared to any other age group, with the greatest increase among those 65 years or older. 88,89 Studies suggest that older adults mainly use cannabis to self-treat chronic conditions such as pain and musculoskeletal disorders, sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression, cancer, glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, and HIV/AIDS. 90,91,92  

Some research suggests that cannabis use may have different effects on the brain in older adults compared to adolescents or young adults who use cannabis. 93,94 Cannabis may also interact with other medicines older adults may be taking such as warfarin, opioids, and benzodiazepines. 95,96

Are some cannabis products safe and effective medicines?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of any product containing whole cannabis plant material for any purpose, even though cannabis and cannabinoid products are marketed for various therapeutic uses and are available in many states from medical cannabis dispensaries.

However, the FDA has approved synthetic THC-based medications (dronabinol and nabilone) to treat nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy. Dronabinol is also approved to treat anorexia and weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS. The FDA has also approved a plant derived cannabidiol-based medication to treat seizures associated with rare forms of epilepsy.

There is evidence that cannabis can be effective in treating some forms of pain, and there is emerging evidence that it may have additional therapeutic uses. Research will continue to explore potential therapeutic effects of cannabis to help inform individual and public health decisions, including strategies to minimize potential harms associated with cannabis use.

It is important to consult with a doctor before consuming cannabis and cannabinoid products to treat medical conditions. Although research shows that people in the United States increasingly view cannabis use as low risk, it may cause negative health effects and can interact with other drugs a person is taking. 97

How is NIDA researching cannabis?

• NIDA funds research on the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid compounds, and health effects of cannabis to support individual and public health.
• The Institute’s research supports development of new treatments for cannabis use disorder. It also includes research on the factors underlying substance use and substance use disorders, and on developing new ways to prevent substance use disorders .
• NIDA supports epidemiology, policy research and public health outcomes research related to cannabis use, including the Monitoring the Future survey and a medicinal cannabis use registry .
• NIDA also helps support the HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study , the largest long-term study of early brain and child development in the United States. The study will collect information about participants during pregnancy, at birth, and through early childhood. A subset of participants will include babies that were exposed during pregnancy or infancy to cannabis.
• The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development SM Study (ABCD Study ® ) researches the impacts of cannabis exposure across the lifespan, from the prenatal period through adolescence and young adulthood, and later adulthood.
• NIDA also funds research on potential therapeutic uses of cannabis and cannabinoids to reduce use of other substances, including opioids.

Latest from NIDA

Cannabis and hallucinogen use among adults remained at historic highs in 2023

Delta-8-THC use reported by 11% of 12th graders in 2023

Reported drug use among adolescents continued to hold below pre-pandemic levels in 2023

Read more about cannabis.

• Read more about cannabis on the CDC web site.
• Learn more about the regulation of products containing cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds from the FDA.
• Find information and statistics on drug-impaired driving from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
• Find basic cannabis information from MedlinePlus , a service of the National Library of Medicine.
• Radwan MM, Chandra S, Gul S, ElSohly MA. Cannabinoids, Phenolics, Terpenes and Alkaloids of Cannabis . Molecules . 2021;26(9):2774. Published 2021 May 8. doi:10.3390/molecules26092774
• Martins AM, Gomes AL, Vilas Boas I, Marto J, Ribeiro HM. Cannabis-Based Products for the Treatment of Skin Inflammatory Diseases: A Timely Review [published correction appears in Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022 Jul 11;15(7):849. doi: 10.3390/ph15070849]. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) . 2022;15(2):210. Published 2022 Feb 9. doi:10.3390/ph15020210
• Cash MC, Cunnane K, Fan C, Romero-Sandoval EA. Mapping cannabis potency in medical and recreational programs in the United States . PLoS One . 2020;15(3):e0230167. Published 2020 Mar 26. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0230167
• Arterberry BJ, Treloar Padovano H, Foster KT, Zucker RA, Hicks BM. Higher average potency across the United States is associated with progression to first cannabis use disorder symptom . Drug Alcohol Depend . 2019;195:186-192. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.11.012
• Babalonis S, Raup-Konsavage WM, Akpunonu PD, Balla A, Vrana KE. Δ8-THC: Legal Status, Widespread Availability, and Safety Concerns . Cannabis Cannabinoid Res . 2021;6(5):362-365. doi:10.1089/can.2021.0097
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