The Effects and Risks of Prohibited Drugs

All drugs typically fall under one of eight categories: stimulants (e.g., cocaine), narcotics, (e.g., heroin), cannabinoids (e.g., marijuana) and anabolic agents (e.g., steroids). The other four of the eight categories are beta 2-agonists (e.g., hydrochloride), masking agents (e.g., epitestosterone), depressants (e.g., alcohol) and glucocorticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone). Under each category, there is a prohibited drug; each drug has its own health risks and effects.

Cocaine

• Cocaine is highly addictive stimulant that affects the nervous system. It can be snorted, injected or smoked. Users of cocaine usually feel euphoric and energetic and the body's temperature, blood pressure and heart rate increase. Cocaine users put themselves at risk for a heart attack, respiratory failure, strokes, seizures, abominable pain and nausea. In rare cases, sudden death may occur on the first use of cocaine.

Heroin

• Heroin is a highly addictive and rapid-acting opiate. It is a natural substance derived from seedpod of the opium poppy. It produces a pleasure response in new users; however, once the user's body becomes accustomed to the drug, she must administer it to operate and feel normal. Health risks may include slow and shallow breathing, convulsions, coma and death. Chronic users who inject heroin are at risk for possibly contracting HIV, hepatitis, blood borne diseases, scarred or collapsed veins, infection of the heart lining and valves, abscesses, pneumonia, tuberculosis and liver and kidney disease. New and experienced users are at equal risk of death because it is impossible to know the purity of heroin they are using.

Marijuana

• Marijuana, often referred to as pot or weed, is a green, brown or grey mixture of dried shredded leaves. It is hemp or cannabis and is smoked in a cigarette. Effects of marijuana may include distorted perception, loss of coordination, increased heart rate and difficulty with problem solving, memory and learning. The only proven health risk is inhaling smoke, of any sort, can damage your lungs.

Methamphetamine

• Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth, is a central nervous system stimulant drug. Meth increases the release of a brain chemical, dopamine, leading to high levels of chemicals in the brain. Risks may include permanent brain damage of structural and functional changes in the brain, extreme weight loss, severe dental problems, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mood disturbances and violent behavior. Psychotic features of paranoia, visual and auditory, hallucinations and delusions are all possible.