A REVIEW ON EXERCISE CAPACITY, LUNG FUNCTION AND RESPIRATORY MUSCLE FUNCTION IN SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

Dr. Shaik Mulla Mobin*, D. Sravani, K. Jahnavi, M. Likhitha, S. K. Arif and Dr. J. N. Suresh Kumar

ABSTRACT

Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) significantly impact exercise capacity, lung function, and respiratory muscle strength, highlighting the need for comprehensive studies in this area. This review focuses on the detrimental effects of various substances—including alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, opioids, stimulants, and inhalants—on pulmonary health. The misuse of these substances, through varied methods of intake, damages the respiratory system and often results in conditions like obstructed airways, diminished lung function, and weakened respiratory muscles. The review details mechanisms by which substances exert their effects on respiratory health, with findings indicating that individuals with SUDs experience marked reductions in measures of pulmonary function and physical endurance. The common effects include reduced forced expiratory volume (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and diminished maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP). These adverse impacts are associated with a heightened risk for respiratory complications, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like COPD, where substance misuse exacerbates disease progression. Rehabilitation and targeted interventions are essential to mitigate these effects, offering pathways to restore respiratory function in individuals with SUDs. This review underlines the need for further research to explore early interventions and preventive strategies to address respiratory health in vulnerable populations affected by substance use.

Keywords: Substance use disorder, exercise capacity, lung function, respiratory muscle strength, FEV1, FVC, MIP, MEP, COPD, obstructed airways, diminished lung function, and weakened respiratory muscles.