This curriculum guide on substance abuse is intended for teachers of family medicine. Comments, learning objectives, teaching hints, and evaluations of knowledge are provided for each area in all chapters. Chapter 1 focuses on the pharmacology of commonly abused drugs including depressants, opioids, stimulants, hallucinogens, inhalants, and various drug interactions. For each substance, the chemistry, metabolism, psychoactive properties, body system effects, intoxication, and tolerance and dependence levels are discussed. Chapter 2 discusses the pathophysiology of ethanol abuse. Chapter 3 deals with the identification of substance abusers, while chapter 4 addresses change motivation. Chapters 5 through 7 address detoxification, rehabilitation, and prevention. Chapters 8 and 9 address chemical dependency in the family and in the family physician, taking into consideration assessment, treatment, and education and counseling needs. The last chapter presents strategies for curricular change in the university, the medical school, family medicine departments, and community training programs. References and materials citations are appended. (BL)