The drugs They can be defined as substances that, when absorbed by the body of a living organism, alter the normal function of the body.
In the field of pharmacologyA drug is a chemical substance used in the treatment, cure, prevention or diagnosis of a disease or to improve the physical or mental well-being of a patient.
As a pharmaceutical product, drugs They are also drugs, as they have a benefit towards a patient's symptoms or pain. These types of drugs are mostly dispensed in pharmacies with restrictions arising from medical prescriptions.
Additionally, there are the recreational drugs, chemicals that affect the central nervous system, such as opiates or hallucinogens. These substances are used to transform perception, consciousness, personality and behavior. It is important to note that these drugs can cause addiction.
Drugs have also been used since ancient times for spiritual and religious purposes. Shamans have mostly used hallucinogens, as well as stimulant and sedative drugs.
Types of drugs and their classification
The main drugs can be classified into:
- Central nervous system depressant drugs: Like alcohol, heroin, opium and morphine, these drugs attenuate the brain functions that maintain wakefulness and can lead to anything from relaxation to coma.
- Central nervous system stimulant drugs: Like nicotine, cocaine and amphetamines, these drugs increase brain activity that controls alertness, reducing feelings of fatigue and hunger.
- Drugs that disrupt the central nervous system: Such as cannabis, LSD and mescaline, these drugs alter the perception of the environment, emotional states and cause one to experience reality differently, which can lead to hallucinations.
Effects of drugs on the body
Drug use brings with it a range of physical and psychological effects. Drugs can distort various processes in the body, particularly in the nervous system and circuits related to pleasure and impulse control. Drugs primarily affect the way neurons receive, send and process information.
Drugs affect neurotransmitters, altering levels of dopamine, serotonin, and other chemicals in the brain, which changes perception, thoughts, and feelings. In addition, prolonged use of drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, or opioids can lead to a number of serious health problems, ranging from permanent neurological damage to respiratory depression or cardiac arrest.
The social and psychological impact of drug use
Drug use not only affects the individual physically; it also has social and psychological repercussions. Drugs are often linked to mental disorders, both prior to and as a result of their abuse. anxiety, the depression and psychosis are common among those who experiment with substances. In addition, drugs have been found to enhance or worsen disorders such as schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals.
- Adolescents who use drugs are more likely to experience academic, family and professional problems, creating a cycle of marginalization and further use.
- Long-term psychological consequences include severe addiction and social isolation.
The family and social environment contribute to the likelihood that a person will use drugs. Promoting healthy habits, clear boundaries and open communication within the family can be a protective factor, while lack of supervision or the existence of serious conflicts can predispose to early use.
Drug use prevention and treatment
Drug addiction treatment typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies, medications, and family support. Treatment programs may be outpatient or residential, depending on the severity of the addiction.
La prevention is equally important. Preventive programs have been shown to be effective when implemented from an early age and targeted at families, communities and school environments.
In many cases, education about the negative impacts of drugs from an early age is key to reducing the number of new users and decreasing the incidence of addiction.
With proper education, united families, and communities aware of the dangers, many of the adverse effects that come with drug use can be avoided.
The impact of drug abuse on physical, mental and social health is evident, and action through education and prevention is essential to combat this growing problem. Although treatments are available and continually evolving, the best defense against addiction is early prevention and the identification and treatment of risk factors in people's lives.