What Are the Most Commonly Used Addictive Drugs In the Country?

According to the most recent data, approximately 48.5 million Americans aged 12 or older—around 17.1% of the population—met the criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD).

Of these, 28.9 million had an alcohol use disorder (AUD), 27.2 million had a drug use disorder (DUD), and 7.5 million suffered from both.

The current epidemic is not surprising when you consider the sheer number of illicit substances readily available. From wine to OTC pain relievers, there’s an endless assortment of temptations available to people with a substance use disorder.

Every year, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) measures the rates of drug use in the nation. For 2023, nearly 50 million Americans (about 1 in 6) had a substance use disorder in the past year.

According to the SAMHSA data, the most commonly used substances in the US are:

1. Alcohol
2. Tobacco Products 
3. Nicotine Vaping 
4. Marijuana 
5. Hallucinogens 
6. RX Pain Reliever Misuse
7. Cocaine
8. Methamphetamine
9. RX Sedatives or Tranquilizers
10. RX Stimulants
11. Inhalants
12. Heroin

It’s no secret that misuse of any or all of the above results in hardships for the user, and their loved ones. Relationships suffer, financial issues ensue, work or school performance is disrupted, and daily life is more challenging to navigate. That’s why it is so important for people to understand the slippery slope of casual use, and how the disease of addiction works.

Anybody can suffer from substance use disorder – all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and social classes. Fortunately, there are treatment options available for all. Visit the New England Recovery Center today, and we’ll put you on the path to recovery. Call 844-500-6372 or contact us here.