Anxiety Disorder Induced by Substance or Medication

This disorder arises when anxiety symptoms are directly precipitated by the use, intoxication, or withdrawal of substances or medications. Etiology involves neurochemical alterations, including dysregulation of GABAergic, glutamatergic, and noradrenergic pathways. Clinically, patients present with excessive worry, agitation, palpitations, and sleep disturbances, temporally associated with substance exposure or withdrawal. Diagnosis relies on establishing a temporal relationship between substance use and symptom onset, along with exclusion of primary anxiety disorders. Management centers on cessation of the precipitating substance, supportive care, and targeted pharmacologic interventions if needed. Prognosis is generally favorable with substance abstinence and proper treatment.