Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATOD)

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATOD) Overview

  • Current definitions and trends in DSM for substances of abuse; depressants and designer drugs.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

  • CNS is pivotal, controlling most bodily functions; consists of brain and spinal cord.

  • Depressants affect CNS, slowing brain activity for treating conditions like anxiety and sleep disorders.

CNS Depressants

  • Include sedatives, opioids, tranquilizers, and hypnotics.

  • Increase activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), leading to reduced arousal in the brain.

Prevalence of Drug Use

  • 218.6 million (78.1%) had no illicit drug use; 61.2 million (21.9%) reported past year use of various drugs.

  • Misuse of prescription medications such as tranquilizers and pain relievers is notable.

Barbiturates

  • Used for sleep and anxiety relief; associated with misuse and reduction in use due to safety concerns.

  • Classified based on action duration: ultra-short, short-acting, intermediate-duration, long-acting.

  • Subjective effects at normal doses include relaxation; high doses can lead to severe health risks.

  • Withdrawal can be life-threatening, particularly with long-acting types.

Benzodiazepines (BZs)

  • Developed as safer alternatives to barbiturates; treat anxiety, insomnia, etc.

  • Limited effectiveness over time; misuse potential has risen.

  • Subjective effects include anxiety reduction and improved sleep; risks increase when combined with other depressants.

Designer Drugs

  • Includes synthetic stimulants sold under misleading names; not safe and often potent.

  • Examples: Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCBs) and Kratom; contaminated products lead to health risks.

  • Designer narcotics like fentanyl analogs pose severe addiction and health risks.

Summary of Risks

  • Barbiturates and BZs pose risks of tolerance, dependence, and severe withdrawal symptoms.

  • Designer drugs present dangerous new alternatives with unpredictable effects.