Drug Abuse
The misuse and excessive abuse of any controlled substance is known as Drug Abuse. Drugs, in both legal and illegal varieties, are extremely addictive and can easily become abused by users.
Depressants
This category includes tranquilizers, barbiturates and other drugs that are designed to make the taker drowsy so that they may sleep. A lot of depressants are actually legal, prescription drugs, which have become a major problem in recent history, especially for people under the age of 18. According to The Partnership for a Drug-Free America, one out of 5 teenagers abuse prescription drugs like Depressants. The widespread availability of these drugs makes them easy to obtain, and therefore to abuse.
Hallucinogens
These are drugs that affect the users brain in a psychoactive manner. They may cause hallucinations and other similar effects. This category includes LSD, peyote and mescaline.
Narcotics
There are two types of narcotic drugs: opiates and non-opiates. This first is created from opium poppy seeds, and that includes opium, codeine, morphine and heroin. The second is produced synthetically and includes drugs such as methadone and demerol.
Non-opiate narcotics are generally used for medicinal purposes, most commonly as a pain reliever. Opiates are a recreational drug that is used to induce pleasure. Both types of this drug are extremely addictive and easily abused by users.
Stimulants
Any drug that is taken to create a feeling of adrenaline and excitement is a stimulant. They are drugs such as amphetamines, cocaine and the many modern forms of the drug such as crack. When the drug is inhaled or injected, it goes to work on the central nervous system immediately and provides an excessive amount of stimulation that can lead to hyperactivity and paranoia.
These drugs can be very addictive, and once a person develops a pattern of regular use, it can be extremely difficult to stop. The body will crave the drugs, and experience withdrawal when it is deprived of them. These symptoms frequently include depression, irritability, nausea and insomnia. An addiction is very difficult to get over, and should not be attempted on your own. If you, or a loved one suffers from any form of drug abuse, seek help immediately. Assistance can be found for people of all ages, regardless of what type of drug is being abused.