What Are the Short-Term Effects of Drug Addiction?

Upon consumption, drugs enter the brain's communication system, disrupting how it sends, receives and absorbs data, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The short-term effects of drug addiction depend on the type of drug consumed.

Alcohol

• Alcohol causes distorted judgment and results in memory lapses and possibly blackouts. Alcohol impairs the drinker's vision, reduces his motor skills and can destroy his brain and all other body organs.

Marijuana

• Marijuana impacts the portion of the brain that regulates emotions, memory and judgment. Smoking marijuana can block information from reaching the long-term memory and lower problem-solving ability.

Heroin

• Initial heroin use begins with a rush of euphoria; however, the user is left feeling "foggy" for many hours later. Because heroin is a highly addictive opiate, the brain cells and body can become dependent on it.

Cocaine

• Cocaine use can result in paranoia and anxiety. Both powder and crack cocaine are extremely addictive, resulting in the addict losing interest in school, sports, work, family and friends. The physical effect cocaine has on the brain receptors can lead to a decrease in feeling pleasure, resulting in dependency.

Methamphetamine

• The short-term effects of "meth" include euphoria, increased physical activity and paranoia. Users often feel compelled to use meth for days at a time; upon stopping usage they "crash" to sleep off the side effects.