Host: The Japanese Society of Toxicology
Name : The 50th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Toxicology
Date : June 19, 2023 - June 21, 2023
Addictive substances are diverse and have varying degrees of neurotoxicity. In the world, opioid abuse is a serious problem. For example, approximately 70,000 people per year die due to opioid overdoses in the United States. In Japan, abuse of methamphetamine, which is classified as a stimulant, is a major problem. Recently, abuse of marijuana and prescription drugs has expanded, especially among young people, including junior high school and high school students. In addition, the problem of excessive caffeine intake from energy drinks and other sources is becoming more serious, especially among young people. On the other hand, many addictive substances have useful effects such as stress relief, pain relief, sleep onset, and antidepressant effects. Therefore, there is a need to clarify the mechanisms of toxicity and usefulness, and to properly use and regulate these substances. In this educational lecture, first, the various addictive substances will be classified according to their target molecules, neuropsychiatric effects, and legal regulations, and the overall picture will be introduced. Second, the toxicity and usefulness of individual addictive substances, such as alcohol and methamphetamine, and their mechanisms will be explained in detail. Finally, the latest research trends on addiction, including not only substance dependence but also behavioral addiction, will be introduced.
