Featuring updated material based on recent surveys, the ninth edition of this textbook also contains new or updated treatment of topics that include the abuse of prescription and performance-enhancing drugs, methamphetamine and Ecstasy, over-the-counter stimulants, abuse levels in young people, use of steroids in baseball, and restrictions on pain pills. Case studies are cited throughout, illustrating the text with personal accounts. The use, scope, pharmacology, and cultural influences are discussed for the various types of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, with initial chapters describing the broader theme of drugs and society, the nature of addiction, cultural attitudes towards use, regulation, and the effects of drugs on homeostatic systems. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Read Less