Drug Effects on the Body

Drugs change how the body functions. When an individual consumes drugs by swallowing, inhalation or injection, it travels into his bloodstream, making its way into the other parts of the body, such as the brain. Different drugs have different effects on the body.

Marijuana

• The short-term effects of marijuana are drowsiness, dry throat and mouth. Long-term effects include respiratory and lung damage, distorted memory and poor concentration.

Cocaine

• Short-term cocaine use can result in restlessness, anxiety and medical conditions such as twitches, tremors and seizures. Long-term cocaine use causes severe alertness, impulsiveness, runny nose and deteriorating nasal tissue.

Sedatives

• With low to moderate use, sedatives such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines can give a feeling of well being, anxiety relief, distorted memory and slurred speech. Long-term use results in lack of motivation, sleep problems, headaches and depression.

Opiates

• Opiates such as heroin and morphine may cause constricted pupils, drowsiness, euphoria and increased heart rate. Hallucinations, mood swings, nightmares and menstrual problems can occur with long-term use.

Amphetamines

• The short-term effects of amphetamine (e.g., "crystal meth") use may occur as loss of appetite, elevated alertness, dilated pupils and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Long-term use causes insomnia, an even higher blood pressure and heart rate, anxiety and irritability.