Common signs and symbols of use illegal drugs

The compulsive use of psychoactive drugs, to the point where the user has no other choice but to continue using it is called drug addiction or chemical dependency. The addictive nature of drugs differs from substance to substance, and from individual to individual. Codeine and alcohol require more exposure to addict the users than drugs like heroin or cocaine.

The range of drugs that can make your addicted are:

• Cannabis compounds – They are found in marijuana and hashish. The common signs and symptoms are a sense of relaxation, poor memory, increased blood pressure and heart rate, red eyes, increased appetite and paranoid thinking.
• Central nervous system depressants – Barbiturates and benzodiazepines are examples. The signs and symbols are drowsiness, slurred speech, confusion, dizziness and depression.
• Central nervous system stimulants – They include amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine and methylphenidate (Ritalin). The signs and symptoms are euphoria, rapid speech, decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia and restlessness.
• Designer drugs – Ecstasy is an example.
• Hallucinogens – LSD, phencyclidine and ketamine are examples. The signs and symptoms are rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors, flashbacks, euphoria, numbness, nausea and delusions.
• Inhalants – Glue, paint, solvents and nitrous oxide are used as inhalant drugs. Long term use can damage the brain, liver and kidneys. It can also cause death.
• Opioids - They include heroin, morphine, codeine, methadone and oxycodone. The common signs and symbols are sedation, depression, constipation, slowed breathing, needle marks where drugs where injected and reduced sense of pain.