Recent patterns of use and associated risks of illicit drug use in adolescents

Addressing adolescent substance abuse presents a tremendous challenge to the practicing clinician. Despite ongoing educational and preventive services, and despite increasing governmental interdiction, substance use by adolescents continues to be a major national problem. Although present rates of use are lower than the peak rates in the late 1970s, drug use among adolescents nearly doubled in the early 1990s and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Patterns of use continue to evolve. Newer drugs make their way to the streets, and older drugs are rediscovered. Behavioral and environmental factors increase the risk for adolescent substance abuse. Identification of use patterns and familiarity with comorbid behaviors and social risks may help the clinician identify the adolescent at risk.