What it means
In health care, misuse usually means using a medicine in a different amount, more often, by a different route, or for a different reason than prescribed, including taking someone else's prescription. It can be on purpose or by mistake. It is used together with substance misuseSUB-stuns mis-YOOSUsing alcohol, drugs or medicines in a way that can cause harm, or using a medicine other than as prescribed.Full entry for harmful use of alcohol or drugs. Devices and equipment can be misused too.
For the nurse
Teach clients how and why to take each drug, and keep controlled drugs locked and counted as policy directs.
Related terms
substance misuse
Using alcohol, drugs or medicines in a way that can cause harm, or using a medicine other than as prescribed.
prescription drug
A drug that can only be legally sold or given with an order from a licensed prescriber.
controlled substance
A drug whose making, prescribing and use are strictly regulated by law because it can be misused or cause dependence.