Drug Intoxication: Definition, History, and References
Definition
Drug intoxication, also known as “intoxication from drugs,” is a state of physical and mental impairment caused by the consumption of a drug. The state of intoxication is caused by the ingestion of a substance that alters the functioning of the body and mind, disrupting the normal control of behavior and cognition. Intoxication from drugs can range from mild to severe depending on the type and amount of drug ingested. It can also lead to physical and psychological dependence, and in some cases, even death.
History
The use of drugs to alter the functioning of the body and mind has been around since ancient times. In Ancient Egypt, alcohol was used to induce intoxication, and opium was used to induce euphoria. In Ancient Greece, cannabis was used to induce relaxation and reduce stress. In India, opium and cannabis were used to treat pain and anxiety.
During the 18th century, recreational drug use became more widespread and was often used to enhance creativity, induce relaxation, and increase pleasure. During the 19th century, drugs such as opium, cocaine, and marijuana were widely available and accessible. In the 20th century, the use of illicit drugs increased significantly, leading to an increase in drug-related deaths.
References
Barbosa, R. C., & Hallak, J. E. C. (Eds.). (2017). Drug abuse and addiction in medical illness: Causes, consequences and treatment. Springer.
Degenhardt, L., & Hall, W. (2010). Extent of illicit drug use and dependence, and their contribution to the global burden of disease. The Lancet, 376(9756), 55-71.
Fischman, M. W., & Schuster, C. R. (1998). The mesocorticolimbic dopamine system: From motivation to action. In The neurobiology of drug and alcohol addiction. CRC Press.
Rudgley, R. (1998). The encyclopedia of psychoactive substances. London: Little, Brown and Co.