Local and regional law enforcement officials across the U.S. cite an increase in pharmacy thefts by individuals who wish to steal prescription drugs for their own use or for diversion to the illicit drug market.
The fear of infection by sharing needles has made snorting and smoking heroin a common form of administration
Sudden cessation of use of methadone at high doses can result in withdrawal symptoms described as "the worst withdrawal imaginable," and can last from weeks to months.
Lower rates of chronic use of marijuana among females may be a result of the social taboo against substance abuse among women.