Signs of a Drug User

Drugs are a controversial issue. They can save your life--or take it. For some, they are a means of recreation; for others, they are the resolution to a medical ailment. Regardless of the reason or type of drug used, symptoms occur. A drug user often feels the effect of the drug but does not always see it.

Drugs

• A drug is any chemical that has an effect on how the body functions. It enters the brain by channeling through the body. By interrupting the neurotransmitters, which are the chemical signals in the brain, the drug can alter the data that the brain cells transmit to one another and to the rest of the body.

Alcohol

• Alcohol is the most commonly consumed drug in America. Its use often causes drunkenness, alcoholic odor from the body, glazed eyes, unfocused disposition, rocky relationships with family and friends, awkwardness, unsteady walk, passive or belligerent attitude, loss of memory, poor job performance and unsavory personal hygiene.

Narcotics

• Narcotics, such as heroin, opium and methadone, derive from opiates that are generated from poppy plants. They copy the brain's neurotransmitters, causing effects that the body is capable of forming on its own, such as pain and euphoria. Symptoms include drowsiness, sluggishness, a reliance on pain medication, track marks on the body, inflamed nostrils, constricted pupils, twitching, vomiting and loss of appetite (most evident in heroin use).

Stimulants

• Stimulants increases brain activity. They cause an increase in quickness and energy, and they also accelerate the heart rate and blood pressure. Stimulants appear in the form of crack cocaine, cocaine, crystal methamphetamine and methamphetamine. Use of these drugs results in nasal complications, dilated pupils, dry mouth, nose bleeds, restlessness, no desire to eat or sleep, argumentative behavior, euphoria and bad breath.

Hallucinogens

• Hallucinogens are commonly referred to as psychedelic drugs. LSD, mushrooms, PCP and peyote are some of the most popular hallucinogens. They affect the user's central nervous system by changing his thinking, emotions and sense of reality. Symptoms include tepid skin, overly dilated pupils, hallucinations, pronounced sweating and body odor, confusion, isolation, self-absorption, incoherent speech and a distorted sense of self and time.

Depressants

• Depressants, also known as "downers," are known for their tranquilizing effect on the central nervous system. They are often prescribed by a physician who diagnosed the patient with stress or anxiety. The use of depressants such as Valium, methaqualone and Xanax can result in a flat personality, a careless appearance, slurry speech, a lack of facial expression and behaving in a drunken manner.