Illicit drug use

Abstract

Illicit drug use is not uncommon in the UK. In 2016, it was estimated that 2 700 000 people between the ages of 16 and 59 years and living in England or Wales had used at least one illicit drug in the last year. Patients may present to primary care with issues relating directly to their drug use, or with physical, social or mental health conditions that cannot be managed without considering concurrent drug use. Treatment options can be discussed and ongoing plans made in primary care. Primary care is increasingly an important setting for the specialist management of such patients, given the relevant focus on holistic care. This article describes commonly used illicit drugs, and the consequences of such use. It also outlines how to approach a consultation involving drug use and discusses key management principles in such patients.