Drug Abuse Effects

Drug Abuse Effects

Drug Abuse Effects

q1.  By what criteria do we say that a drug is being misused or abused?

q2.  What types of illicit drugs are most likely to result in an Emergency Room visit?

q3.  How does cocaine affect the brain?

q4.  What could be the various factors that are responsible for the effects of drugs on the mind and body?

q5.  Can LSD result in drug dependence?  Why or why not?

q6.  What are the behavioral patterns of heroin abuse?

q7.  What are some of the positive effects of marijuana use? What are some of the negative effects?

q8.  Examine and describe some of the factors that influence drug-taking behavior.

q9.  Distinguish between what is meant by acute versus chronic toxic effects of drug abuse.

q10.  Discuss the structure and the functioning of neurons and their role in drug use.

Drug Abuse Effects

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Drug Abuse Effects

Q1. By what criteria do we say that a drug is being misused or abused?

Misuse refers to using a drug in a way other than prescribed or intended (e.g., taking higher doses of prescription medication).
Abuse involves using drugs to get high or for non-medical reasons, leading to negative consequences such as health problems, impaired functioning, or addiction. Criteria include frequency, purpose, dosage, psychological/physical dependence, and adverse effects on health or life responsibilities.

Q2. What types of illicit drugs are most likely to result in an Emergency Room visit?

Common illicit drugs linked to ER visits include:

  • Opioids (e.g., heroin, fentanyl): due to overdose and respiratory depression

  • Cocaine: due to heart attacks, seizures, and strokes

  • Methamphetamine: causes hyperthermia, agitation, or psychosis

  • Synthetic cannabinoids (“K2″/”Spice”): linked to unpredictable and severe reactions

  • Marijuana (high doses or laced forms): panic attacks, hallucinations in some users

Q3. How does cocaine affect the brain?

Cocaine increases dopamine levels by preventing its reabsorption in the brain’s reward pathways. This results in intense euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness. Over time, it can impair dopamine signaling, leading to mood disturbances, paranoia, and…

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