MyChart
Signs of Substance Use
Overview
The following are some obvious signs that a person may be drinking alcohol, using tobacco, or using other substances. This is not a complete list. If you suspect use of a particular substance, get more information on signs of use for that substance.
Alcohol
- Alcoholic beverages missing from the home storage cabinet
- Odor of mouthwash (used to cover up alcohol) on the breath
- Hangover symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, or headache), if recently used
Tobacco
- A distinctive smell on the breath and clothing
- Tobacco products in the person's possession
Marijuana
- Sweet smell on clothing; bloodshot eyes, if recently used, and frequent use of eyedrops to reduce the redness
- Careless grooming, increased fatigue, and changes in eating and sleeping patterns, if using regularly
- Drug paraphernalia (such as pipes) in the person's possession
Club drugs such as ecstasy (MDMA)
- Skin rash similar to acne
- Small bottles with liquid or powder in the person's possession
Stimulants such as cocaine or methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- Long periods of time without sleep
- Persistent runny nose and nosebleeds, or injection marks on arms or other parts of the body
- Drug paraphernalia, such as syringes, spoons with smoke stains, small pieces of glass, and razor blades
Hallucinogens such as LSD
- Trance-like appearance with dilated pupils, if recently used
- Possession of small squares of blotter paper (sometimes stamped with cartoon characters) or other forms of the drug
Opioids such as heroin or hydrocodone (Norco)
- Very small pupils and a drowsy or relaxed look, if recently used
- Extra pill bottles around the house or in the trash
- "Doctor shopping" (getting multiple opioid prescriptions from different doctors)
- Possession of injecting supplies (an outfit or rig), which may consist of a spoon or bottle cap, syringe, tourniquet, cotton, and matches
Inhalants
- Chemical breath, red eyes, or stains on clothing or face, if recently used
- Soaked rags or empty aerosol containers in the trash
Anabolic steroids
- An unpleasant breath odor
- Mood changes, including increased aggression
- Changes in physical appearance that aren't caused by expected patterns of growth and development
- Possession of medicines or syringes
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: March 20, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: March 20, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
