Abuse liability

Abuse liability refers to the potential of a psychoactive substance to be misused, typically for recreational purposes. The term is often used in the context of drug development and regulation, as it is a critical factor in determining the controlled substance classification of a new drug.

Definition

Abuse liability is defined as the propensity of a particular psychoactive substance to be susceptible to misuse, which can lead to dependence or addiction. This is often measured through preclinical and clinical studies that assess the drug's reinforcing effects, its ability to produce physical dependence, and its capacity to induce a withdrawal syndrome.

Assessment

The assessment of a drug's abuse liability is a complex process that involves a variety of research methods. These include animal testing, human laboratory studies, and epidemiological research. The goal of these studies is to determine the drug's potential for misuse and the likelihood of it causing dependence or addiction.

Factors Influencing Abuse Liability

Several factors can influence a drug's abuse liability. These include its pharmacological properties, the individual's genetic predisposition, and environmental factors. The route of administration can also affect a drug's abuse liability, with intravenous and inhalation routes typically associated with higher abuse liability.

Implications for Drug Development and Regulation

The assessment of abuse liability is a critical component of the drug development process. It informs the controlled substance classification of a new drug and can influence its regulatory approval. Drugs with high abuse liability are typically subject to stricter regulations and controls.

See Also

• Addiction
• Controlled Substances Act
• Drug development
• Psychoactive drug