Substance Use Problems

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Learn about substance use disorders

Using drugs or alcohol in a way that harms you or that leads you to harm others, like your family or friends, is called substance use disorder. It can range from mild to severe. Moderate to severe substance use disorder is sometimes called addiction. This disorder can develop from the use of almost any type of substance. This includes alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, illegal drugs, prescription medicines, and over-the-counter medicines. If you think you might have a substance use disorder, our topics can give you the support you need to help you quit. And if you're worried about someone else, you can find tips in our topics for providing support to others.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.