A drug can be defined as any substance that can change the normal functioning of the body and the brain. Drug can have a psychological effect when ingested or introduced into the body. While some drugs are legal and mostly used for the treatment of common diseases, other drugs are illegal and can have adverse effects both in the short and long term on the user. Illegal drugs can lead to an addiction on the user who constantly abuses such drugs despite the side effects. Due to the ability of the drugs to change the normal functioning of the body and brain, drugs can become addictive on the user when used over a long period, creating a false pleasure. Addiction is the chronic, relapsing disorder that is characterized by a compulsive drug seeking and use irrespective of the adverse effects it can have on the user.
Types of Drugs and Effects
Opioids are one of the most commonly abused types of drug. Opioids are a class of drugs that are either derived from or chemically. While some opioids are legally prescribed, some such as heroin are illegal due to the harmful effects it has on the users. Opioids can either be orally taken or administered intravenously. The short term effects of opioid use on young people can include feeling drowsiness, constipation, nausea, and feeling of unconsciousness ( NIDA, 2019 ). In the long run, youth who continue to use opioids can get into addiction and physical dependence on the drug to function normally. The body gets adapted to the presence of drugs in the body; the withdrawal symptoms take place when one stops to use it. Such symptoms include insomnia and restlessness.
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Another commonly used type of drug is alcohol. Like any other drug, alcohol can affect the normal functioning of the body and the brain, slowing down the central nervous system and creating a perceived feeling of relaxation, false confidence, and reduced inhibition. Excessive drinking of alcohol can have adverse short term and long term effects on the user. In the short run, alcohol can lead to distorted vision, memory lapses, slurred speech, impaired judgment, and loss of coordination and perception. In the long run, alcohol can lead to liver cirrhosis, addiction, and inability to function normally when one is not under the influence. It can also lead to broken relationships and increased aggression, especially when one is drunk ( UNODC, 2019 ). The overall outcome is degrading health, social isolation, and total loss of the normal functioning abilities of an individual.
The third kind of commonly abused drug by young people is marijuana. Marijuana is mainly taken through smoking as rolled cigarettes or through pipes. Despite the perceived pleasure that the users believe it can bring, the drug can have both the short term and long term negative effects on the users ( UNODC, 2019 ). In the short term, young people can experience a sense of muscles, relaxation, euphoria, and altered cognitive functioning. It can also lead to loss of coordination and memory and increased heartbeat. In the long run, the drug can be addictive, making one unable to function normally without it. It can also lead to respiratory diseases such as lung cancer. In overall, marijuana can have detrimental effects on the lives of young people, making them unable to function normally actively.
Cocaine is another commonly abused drug and usually taken by snorting up the nose or rubbing in the gums. The effects of cocaine can be visible almost within a few hours after use. It can lead to restlessness, anxiety, paranoia, and inability to concentrate. When used in large amount and over a long time, users can get addicted and become unable to take a productive part in daily life activities such as work. Also, it can have serious health problems such as disturbances in heart rhythm and heart attacks; neurological effects, including headaches, seizures, strokes, and coma; and gastrointestinal complications, including abdominal pain and nausea.
References
NIDA (2019). Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/cadchart_2.pdf
UNODC (2019). Retrieved from https://www.unodc.org/wdr2018/prelaunch/WDR18_Booklet_4_YOUTH.pdf
