Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that affects the Central Nervous System. The active ingredient in Marijuana is THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol). Marijuana is the most widely used drug behind alcohol and tobacco. Also, marijuana is used in religious ceremonies and originated from the Himalayan mountains. It is illegal in most countries.
Effects vary for each person. Common effects are:
Using a vaporizer or ingesting marijuana through use with food products will negate the negative effects of carcinogens and breathing problems. Not inhaling as deeply can increase the feelings of relaxation and lessen the nausea experienced. If your family has a history of schizophrenia it is strongly recommended to not use marijuana.
Prescription drugs can be easily abused because of their availability and societal acceptability. Prescription abuse is commonly misconceived as less dangerous than other drug use because these drugs are legal and prescribed by accredited doctors. Drugs most commonly abused are pain relievers (opiates), Central Nervous system depressants, & Central Nervous system stimulants.
Effects vary from drug to drug:
Knowing the difference between use and abuse can be difficult to define. Self-medicating by increasing the dosage without the recommendation of a medical professional can lead to abuse. Never STOP taking a prescribed medication without first attaining consent from your doctor. If abuse is suspected, early detection can lead to positive choices for solving the problem.
Club drugs are defined as the drugs that are popular in the “club” scene. These drugs include LSD, Ecstasy, Ketamine, GHB, Rohypnol, etc. These drugs usually have stimulant and psychedelic properties. Club drugs are many different substances grouped together because of their use. Often these drugs are mixed & used in conjunction with each other, a behavior called poly-drug use. These drugs are popular for use at clubs or raves for their either sedative or euphoric producing properties. Also, these drugs enhance and intensify the senses of touch and hearing. This drug classification varies with popularity of drugs.
It is strongly recommended to not use these drugs in combination with each other, and definitely NOT with alcohol. Most of these drugs leave the user vulnerable to sexual assault and thus all users should be watched at all times. Overdose is always a constant threat and ecstasy users should have 2-4 cups of water each hour.
Cocaine & Methamphetamine are psycho-stimulant drugs. Cocaine is derived from the Coca plant while Meth is manufactured in labs. They help the user get a quick burst of energy, or stay up all night. Many students use these drugs to cram for tests, to increase energy to party and for dieting. Their usage and effects are very similar.
Cocaine & Meth are both highly addictive substances, mixing with other drugs increases adverse effects. Any method of intake is also highly dangerous, injection risks infection (HIV, Hepatitis C), snorting destroys the mucus membranes and smoking causes tooth decay. A higher prevalence of HIV and STIs is more common among users of these drugs due to unsafe sex behaviors. Meth use has been associated with triggering mental illness (depression, bipolar, and schizophrenia).
