What Are the Physiological Effects of Drug Abuse?
- Depressants are drugs that have a calming or sedating effect on the user. Drugs in this class include benzodiazepines, sedative-hypnotics, alcohol and barbiturates.
Physical effects of depressant abuse include loss of coordination, slurred speech, respiratory depression and decreased heart rate and blood pressure. Withdrawal from some depressants can be dangerous or even fatal in some instances. Symptoms of depressant withdrawal include tremors, seizure, panic attacks and death. - Stimulants are effectively the opposite of depressants in that they speed respiration, heart rate and metabolism. Common stimulant drugs include cocaine, ephedrine, piperazines and amphetamines.
Short-term stimulant abuse can cause elevated blood pressure, tachycardia, vasoconstriction and appetite suppression, while the effects of long-term abuse include malnutrition, accelerated aging and bone loss; and increased incidence of heart attack and stroke. - Hallucinogenic drugs are used for their ability to alter the user's perception of reality. While their effects are primarily mental, hallucinogens are capable of causing physiological changes as well.
The effects of hallucinogens on the body include changes in blood pressure and heart rate, nausea, vomiting, pupil dilation and increased sensitivity to pain. - Dissociative drugs include PCP, ketamine and the over-the-counter cold medication DXM. Their effects on the body are often unpredictable and may include changes in pulse and blood pressure, hyperthermia and reduced sensitivity to pain.
Most deliriants have an anti-cholinergic effect, blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the nervous system. They cause a state of confusion in the user and include drugs like high-dose antihistamines, amanita mushrooms and datura. Physical effects of these drugs can be fatal and include dry mouth, tachycardia, high blood pressure and associated anti-cholinergic effects.
When it comes to causing lasting physical damage, inhalants are among the most dangerous substances available. They work by depriving the brain of oxygen, causing states of altered consciousness. Drugs in this class include toluene (computer duster), gasoline, nitrous oxide and glue, all of which are inhaled or "huffed" for their intoxicating effects.
According to nih.gov, inhalant abuse can cause asphyxiation, coma, convulsions and instant death. Those that survive may incur permanent brain, lung and liver damage among other serious problems. - If you or someone you know has a drug abuse problem, seek professional help to avoid lasting health consequences. Some drugs can cause dangerous withdrawal effects when stopped abruptly, so consult a doctor before attempting to discontinue drug use.