Nature and Effects of Substance Used and Abused

NATURE and EFFECTS of SUBSTANCE USED AND ABUSED

  • Psychoactive Drugs: Affect brain function; influence awareness, thoughts, mood, and behavior.
    • Impact central nervous system; alter thinking, feelings, and behaviors.

GATEWAY DRUGS

  • Definition: Legal substances that may lead non-drug users to more dangerous drugs.
  • Examples:
    1. Alcohol
    2. Tobacco/Cigarettes

Short-Term Effects of Gateway Drugs:

  • Headache
  • Lightheadedness
  • Slurred speech
  • Slow reflexes and coordination
  • Mood swings
  • Nausea
  • Blockouts
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Breathing difficulties

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol and Tobacco:

  • Organ damage (e.g., liver, heart, brain)
  • Cancer risk
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Poor performance in studies/work
  • Alcohol poisoning leading to coma or death
  • Chronic diseases (e.g., asthma, hypertension)
  • Stroke risk

DEPRESSANTS

  • Definition: Substances that slow down the central nervous system; relaxing muscles and nerves.
  • Uses: Prescribed for anger reduction, stress relief, and sleep induction.
  • Examples: Alcohol, barbiturates, tranquilizers.