SW1023 INTEGRATIVE SOCIAL WORK AND ADDICTION STUDIES MODULE…

There are two types of drugs:

• Legal drugs are known as over the counter (OTC) and prescription (Rx) drugs. Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine are all legal drugs as well.
• Illegal drugs refer to drugs that are not prescribed by a licensed medical professional, and their use is unlawful under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Department of Justice Canada).

Discussion Questions

4:2 There are many prescribed drugs and over the counter medications that are frequently misused or abused by people. Occasionally, a tolerance is developed which leads to an increase in the needed dosage in order to feel the same effects. This can result in dependency.

1. What are some ways that dependence on a legal or prescribed medication can be avoided?
2. What are some of the overall potential consequences of repeated misuse or abuse of over-the-counter medication or prescriptions?

Required Readings and Resources

• Gustafsson, M., Silva, V., Valeiro, C., Joaquim, J., van Hunsel, F., & Matos, C. (2024). Misuse, abuse, and medication errors adverse events associated with opioidsA systematic review, Pharmaceuticals, 17, 1009.
• Davis, D. R., & Jansen, G. G. (1998). Making meaning of Alcoholics Anonymous for social workers: Myths, metaphors, and realities. Social Work, 43, 169-182.
• Van Wormer, K. & Davis, D. R. (2018). Addiction treatment: A strengths perspective (4th edition). Brooks/Cole-Thomson. (Chapter 3)