Like the first edition, this book serves as a reference to an international and multi-disciplinary audience and provides clear and practical guidance on the assessment and management of all drug related problems. Current drug problems are set against historical and epidemiological perspectives and the aetiology of drug dependence is also discussed. The book also includes useful definitions of terms, the effects and clinical characteristics of abuse of drugs and coverage of the effects of the drug abuse process on the patient's life. Various treatment types are presented, from clinical management to psychological and psychosocial interventions, as well as the management of the numerous medical and psychiatric complications of drug dependence. There are sections on the effects of drugs on parents and children, prevention and legal implications.