After the WHO "psychoactive substance abuse" is defined as "a maladaptive pattern of use indicated by ... continued use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent social, occupational, psychological or physical problem that is caused or exacerbated by the use or by recurrent use in situations in which it is physical hazardous"
Abuse of non-dependence-producing substances is defined in ICD-10 as repeated and inappropriate use of a substance, which though the substance has no dependence potential, is accompanied by harmful physical or psychological effects, or involves unnecessary contact with health professionals (or both).
The most important groups of abused prescription drugs, herbal and folk remedies are: