Chapter 16: Drugs

What is a drug?

It is any "externally administered chemical substance" (not food) that "modifies or affects chemical reactions in the body".

What is an antibiotic?

It is a "medicinal drug" used to treat "bacterial infections".

What are the effects of alcohol on human nervous system?

It "slows down brain functions" and "self control", in some people; it "may increase anxiety", "reduces nervous tension", "blurred vision" and "poor muscular coordination".

What are the effects of alcohol on human digestive system?

It increase "risk of gastric ulcers" and may "damage liver" leading to liver cirrhosis.

What are the effects of taking heroin?

It "dulls senses", "reduces hunger", "relieves tension", "makes user sleepy", when it gets addictive; user gets "physically dependent" on drug causing "stomach upsets", "vomiting" and "diarrhea".

Why do people smoke?

People smoke as a "symbol of adulthood", "impression of maturity", "high social status", "happiness" and "success". Some use it to "cover weaknesses or shortcomings".

What are the harmful components of cigarette and what are their effects on human body?

Harmful components of cigarette and their effects:
- "Nicotine"
- addictive drug
- dulls brain and senses
- causes release of adrenaline
- makes blood clot easily
- "Carbon monoxide"
- increases risk of atherosclerosis
- damages lining of blood vessels
- "Tar"
- contains cancer causing substances
- paralyses cilia
- "Irritants"
- irritate the cells lining air passages

What are the effects of smoking on pregnancy?

Effects of smoking on pregnancy are; "fetus grows slowly", "premature birth", "miscarriage" and "stillbirth".