Drug abuse causes significant mental and physical side effects in users. Frequently starting from recreational use, drug abuse can become a habit that causes problems in relationships, the workplace and with the law. Common signs of addiction or abuse include behavioral changes, lack of energy or motivation, missing work or other appointments and a change in physical appearance. High doses or long-term abuse of some drugs can result in death.
Side Effects of Depressant Abuse
Depressants, including tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax, are prescription drugs intended for the treatment of anxiety and stress. Abuse of depressants cause side effects similar to an alcohol induced hangover. It can also cause nausea, seizures and comas. While abusing depressants, the user might also demonstrate slowed breathing, mental confusion and symptoms similar to depression. When mixed with alcohol, the intensity of side effects associated with depressants increases dramatically and can be deadly.
Side Effects of Stimulant Abuse
Users abusing stimulants generally experience side effects that are the exact opposite of depressants. Stimulants are usually used to stave off sleep, increase alertness and increase energy. Abuse of stimulants, such as amphetamines, cocaine and Ritalin causes extreme euphoria, rapid movement and speech, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Additional side effects of stimulant abuse include severe headaches, impotence, seizures and psychosis.
Side Effects of Narcotic Abuse
Narcotics are pain killers normally prescribed for treatment of pain associated with illness and medical procedures. Narcotics are highly addictive. The immediate rush they cause make the drugs highly likely to be abused. Types of narcotics include heroin, morphine, codeine and oxycodone. Side effects caused by narcotics consist of slowed respiration, impotence, constipation and severe withdrawal. Narcotic withdrawal includes intense side effects that can include nausea, tremors, chills and panic attacks. Narcotic overdoses can cause seizures and lead to death.
Side Effects of Inhalant Abuse
Hundreds of household products, including glue, nail polish remover, cleaning fluids, hair spray, gasoline, the propellant in aerosol whipped cream and spray paint, are inhaled to get high. Seconds after inhaled, inhalants cause slurred speech, loss of coordination, light-headedness and hallucinations. Long-term side effects of inhalant abuse are weight loss, muscle weakness, depression and brain damage. Additional side-effects of inhalant abuse might include seizures, kidney and liver damage, and death.
Side Effects of Hallucinogens
Hallucinogens such as LSD, PCP and Ecstasy can cause dramatic behavioral changes in users. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, many serious side effects are associated with the use of hallucinogens. These side effects include depression, violent behavior, convulsions, coma, heart and lung failure, coma and brain damage. The hallucinogenic side effects of these drugs may consist of illusions, anxiety and loss of control.
