How is misuse of a drug characterized?

Misuse of a drug is characterized primarily by the use that is unintentional or inappropriate. This concept encompasses scenarios where an individual might take medication in a manner not prescribed, such as exceeding the recommended dosage or using a drug for a purpose other than its intended medical use. It highlights the distinction between use that is intentional and aligns with medical guidelines versus use that disregards these guidelines, potentially leading to negative consequences for the individual.

The focus on unintentional or inappropriate use signifies that misuse can occur without a conscious desire to abuse the substance. For instance, a patient might misunderstand the dosing instructions or mix medications with harmful substances, leading to misuse without any underlying intent to harm oneself.

Other options emphasize specific types of drug use but do not encapsulate the broader definition of misuse. The emphasis on intentional recreational use, social impairment, or underuse does not fully cover the diverse circumstances under which misuse occurs. Thus, the characterization of misuse as unintentional or inappropriate is comprehensive and aligns with how drug misuse is defined in counseling and treatment contexts.