NARCOMANIA: Definition, History and Characteristics
Narcomania (or narcotic mania) is a type of non-psychotic mental disorder characterized by an excessive craving for narcotics, usually opiates, that often leads to drug abuse and addiction. It is a form of drug dependence that can be difficult to treat and is associated with significant medical and psychological complications.
Definition
Narcomania is defined as an uncontrollable craving for narcotics that results in an intense compulsion to use. This disorder is distinguished from other forms of substance dependence by its focus on opiates, such as heroin, morphine, codeine, and opium, as well as synthetic opiates, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. It is characterized by a powerful craving for the drug, along with intense psychological and physical symptoms when not using.
History
The term narcomania was first used in the late 19th century to describe an excessive craving for opiates. At the time, the narcotics were used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including pain, diarrhoea, and depression. However, this widespread use of opiates led to a growing problem of addiction and abuse. The term was used to describe the symptoms of this addiction, including compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking behaviour.
Characteristics
Narcomania is characterized by a strong craving for opiates, which can lead to compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking behaviour. Those with narcomania typically experience both psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms if they are unable to obtain the desired drug. They may also exhibit symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as impaired judgment and decision-making. Narcomania is not only difficult to treat, but is also associated with significant medical and psychological complications, including an increased risk of overdose, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and other blood-borne diseases, as well as psychiatric disturbances.
Conclusion
Narcomania is a serious mental disorder characterized by an uncontrollable craving for opiates that can lead to drug abuse and addiction. It is associated with significant medical and psychological complications and is difficult to treat. Understanding the definition, history, and characteristics of narcomania is essential in helping those affected by this disorder.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Branney, P. (2013). The role of opioids in the treatment of pain. British Medical Journal, 347(7919), f5662. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.f5662
Kolodny, A., Courtwright, D. T., Hwang, C. S., Kreiner, P., Eadie, J. L., Clark, P. B., & Alexander, G. C. (2015). The prescription opioid and heroin crisis: A public health approach to an epidemic of addiction. Annual Review of Public Health, 36(1), 559-574. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-031914-122957
McLellan, A. T., Lewis, D. C., O’Brien, C. P., & Kleber, H. D. (2000). Drug dependence, a chronic medical illness: Implications for treatment, insurance, and outcomes evaluation. The Journal of the American Medical Association, 284(13), 1689-1695. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.284.13.1689