This refers to the use of a substance in a way, situation, amount, or frequency that causes harm to the user or others. This may include using substances for unintended purposes, in improper doses, or in contexts where use is unsafe (e.g., underage drinking, injection drug use).
Because the term “misuse” can carry judgment or stigma, many experts prefer more neutral terms such as “substance use” or “non-medical use.”
Sources: SAMHSA_NCBI; Recovery Research Institute