Drug abuse and its treatment has become a very serious concern these days for employers and parents. The number of people getting addicted to illegal drugs has been increasing rapidly. It is necessary to make people aware of the dangerous effects of illegal drug consumption. Some of the most commonly used drugs and their effects are discussed here.
Marijuana:
Marijuana is a psychoactive compound from cannabis herb. The most active component of marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). People consume marijuana for some desired effects such as euphoria, relaxation, and hallucinations. However, some of the side-effects of marijuana addiction include sedation, short-term memory impairment, increased blood pressure, and red conjunctiva. Nervous, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems are seriously damaged by long-term marijuana addiction.
Cocaine:
Cocaine is a stimulant of nervous system. The drug is present in blood for up to 5-6 hours after consumption. Hyperactivity, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, restlessness, and euphoria are some of the effects of cocaine. The effects of the drug can last from about 20 minutes to several hours based on the amount of drug taken. But, it causes serious side effects including paranoia, cardiovascular complications, seizures, and heart strokes.
Phencyclidine (PCP):
PCP is another commonly used drug which has hallucinogenic and neurotoxic effects. It acts as both nervous system depressant and stimulant. It is mainly consumed as it causes euphoria and mood elevation. PCP is responsible for potent side-effects such as rapid heart rate, altered temperature regulation, disrupted eye movement, loss of coordination, and so on.
Methamphetamine:
Many people are seen consuming methamphetamine which is a central nervous system stimulant. The drug elevated the mood, and causes euphoria and appetite suppression. Methamphetamine addiction is associated with problems such as anxiety, restlessness, irritability, paranoia, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and tremors.
Opiates:
Opium is a narcotic and is used commonly as a recreational drug. Heroin, morphine and codeine are the opiates which cause euphoria. Some of the general effects of these drugs include slow speech, lethargy, drowsiness, muscle relaxation, and respiratory depression.
As many health problems are associated with illegal drug use, it is compulsory to avoid the addiction.
