Psychopharmacology And The Psychiatric Expert Witness
Psychoactive substances are chemicals that affect the way a person feels. Because of their effects, some substances are abused. Psychoactive substances can have a profound effect on cognition, behavior and physiology and influence behavior in social and interpersonal situations.
Addiction is a highly complex bio-psychosocial phenomenon. Addiction is often described as a compulsive continued use of a drug or substance and an inability to stop, but it can also be applied to compulsive behaviors. An Expert Forensic Psychiatrist can be invaluable in determining if an individual is a substance abuser or an addict. Often the terms "addiction" and "substance abuse" are used interchangeably. However, substance abuse is the overindulgence in and dependence on an addictive substance, especially alcohol or a narcotic drug. A drug abuser is not always addicted to drugs. According to the Mayo Clinic, the difference is that a person who is addicted compulsively seeks to use a substance, regardless of the potentially negative social, psychological and physical consequences. Addiction involves lack of control and the repeated inability to take personal responsibility for behaviors.
Treatment paths for addicts and substance abusers require that medical, psychological, and often legal issues be addressed. The effects of intoxication increase the risk of suicide, increase aggression and impulsivity and impair judgment. Addiction may cause other psychological disorders or may mask or exacerbate previously existing disorders. When these issues are factors in criminal behavior, or in civil proceedings, there is a need for a Psychiatric Expert Witness to evaluate treatment and consequences.
Suboxone
Suboxone is used in opiate detoxification to inhibit the craving for opiates such as oxycodone or heroin and minimize withdrawal symptoms. It contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is an opioid medication. Buprenorphine is similar to other opioids such as morphine, codeine, and heroin; however, it produces less euphoric effects and therefore lessens opiate abuse. Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids such as morphine, codeine, and heroin.
