[Use of psychotropic drugs and addiction: approaches to epidemiologic research]

Although the phenomenon of drug abuse in France is well delimited, it constitutes a public health problem. The way it spreads is sometimes 'epidemic' in sub-groups especially exposed. The somtic or relational consequences are short-term and it concerns more and more adolescents or young adults. Two main research axes have been developed: studies in the general population, adolescents or adults, in order to know the general context of licit and illicit psychotropic use in France, and specific studies in detoxification centers in order to describe the characteristics of drug addicts and to evaluate their requirements. Results of some recent surveys can illustrate these axes. Total abstinence is exceptional. Psychotropic drug abuse is deeply established in traditional French social customs. Most subjects had a narrow relation with psychoactive drugs. The variety as well as quantity of products allow everyone to adopt a style of consumption. Globally, alcohol consumption has decreased. Moderate consumers seem to be those who especially confine their drinking to daily wine consumption. On the other hand, the consumption of aperitifs and other drinks in on the increase. The dissociation of alcohol consumption from meals enhances drunkness. Nicotine-poisoning in men had a parallel evolution and has increased in women. Psychotropic drugs (tranquillizers and hypnotics) are specially used by aged women on medical prescription. For the study of drug abuse, data is collected in specialised centers and prisons regarding socio-demographic variables, intoxication profile and medical and social consequences. For both the general and addict population, epidemiological research, especially typological analysis, allows to identify some sub-groups at risk of drug addiction.