The quest for a pleasant high or escape may seem appealing to users when first indulging in the distorted world of drugs. But drugs can produce negative effects and carry long-term consequences ranging from permanent damage to the body, to premature aging and death. A user might continue to strongly desire a drug despite the obvious destructive effects.
Highs and Lows
Power, energy and an immediate rush or high are some of the effects that feel good when using drugs such as amphetamines, cocaine and inhalants (glue, hair spray, paint thinner, gasoline). Alcohol and prescription drugs, such as barbiturates and tranquilizers, are depressants that provide a temporary sensation of relief or a comfortable "down" feeling. Many of these substances have addictive qualities, and overdose can be deadly. Additionally, use of inhalants can cause loss of sense of smell, toxic reactions and death.
Heart Problems
Some commonly abused drugs can affect the cardiovascular system, causing abnormal heart rates and even heart attacks. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), needle drug use not only can lead to collapsed veins, but to infections of the heart vessels and valves, as well. Cocaine can cause heart failure, while amphetamines can lead to high heart rate and blood pressure. Other drugs that can cause serious damage to the heart include heroin, inhalants, marijuana, LSD, PCP, prescription stimulants, steroids and nicotine.
Respiratory Difficulties
Some drugs cause breathing to slow, block air to the lungs and exacerbate existing respiratory problems. Bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer can result from smoking or snorting/sniffing cocaine, heroin, inhalants, marijuana, prescription opiates and nicotine.
There is a risk of other serious effects, as well. Use of inhalants can cause loss of sense of smell, toxic reactions and death. Marijuana and hashish can cause lung damage and weakened immune systems. Heroin use also causes respiratory problems along with more serious consequences such as seizures and death.
Brain Damage
Mental health issues such as depression and aggression have long been known to affect drug abusers. But drug use might also lead to permanent changes in the brain, NIDA explains, causing paranoia and hallucinations. NIDA cites cocaine, inhalants, marijuana and even prescription stimulants as possible culprits. Nicotine may also affect the brain, resulting in seizures, stroke and brain damage.
The long-term effects of LSD include paranoia and psychosis along with depression and disorientation, according to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Marijuana and hashish can lead to memory impairment soon after its use and cognitive problems with long-term use. Amphetamines can eventually lead to psychosis and seizures.
Prenatal Dangers
Cocaine, heroin, inhalants, methamphetamine, marijuana and even nicotine can cause many hazardous situations for pregnant women and their babies, NIDA warns. These effects include premature birth, miscarriage and low birth weight. Their infants may develop behavioral and cognitive problems, as well, and be born suffering from addiction to the drugs they were exposed to in utero.
