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Broadly defined as any chemical entity or mixture of entities, not required for the
maintenance of health, that alter the biological function or structure when administrated.
Addictive?
If it causes, “uncontrollable compulsive drug seeking & use, even in the face of negative
health & social consequences.”
Results from both psychological and physical dependence on the drug
6 Categories of Psychoactive Drug
1. Depressants
2. Stimulants
3. Hallucinogens
4. Cannabis
5. Narcotics
6. Inhalants
Depressants
Key actions: Slow the function of the central nervous system
Reduced heart and breathing rates, blood pressure
Lowered inhibitions, impaired judgment
Sedation, drowsiness, loss of consciousness
Examples:
Barbiturates
Rohypnol
Alcohol
Tranquilizers
GHB
Stimulants
Key actions: Stimulate the function of the central nervous system
Increased heart rate, blood pressure, brain function
Feelings of energy, exhilaration
Examples:
Cocaine
Amphetamine
Methamphetamine
Caffeine
Ritalin
Ephedra
Hallucinogens
Key actions: Altered states of feeling and perception (hallucinations, distortions of
reality)
Increased temperature, heart rate, blood pressure
Weakness, tremors, nervousness, paranoia
Synesthesia (sensation of combining of the senses)
Examples:
LSD
PCP
Peyote
Ecstasy and designer drugs
Cannabis
Active ingredient: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Key actions:
Euphoria, confusion
Slowed thinking and reaction time
Impaired balance and coordination
Cough, frequent respiratory infections
Examples:
Hashish
Marijuana
Narcotics (Opiates)
Key actions:
Relief of pain, euphoria
Reduced heart rate and blood pressure
Sedation, drowsiness, confusion
Natural and synthetic; derived from the Oriental poppy plant
Examples:
Opium
Morphine
Heroin
Oxycodone
Inhalants
Volatile compounds
Key actions:
Unpredictable, drunklike effects; aggression
Euphoria
Damage to respiratory and cardiovascular systems
Examples:
Gasoline
Glues
Paint
Aerosol propellants
Nitrites (“laughing gas”)
Alcohol Related Problems
Alcohol-related medical problems
Effects of chronic use
Fetal alcohol syndrome
Alcohol-related psychological problems
Alcoholism (Alcohol Dependence)
Alcohol abuse
Alcohol-related social problems
Accidents
Crime and violence
Suicide
Alcohol-related family problems
Withdrawal Symptoms:-
• Aches/Pains
• Diarrhea
• Restlessness/Confusion
• Lack of sleep
• Convulsions