Drug Abuse And Consequences Flashcards
What is drug abuse?
Non medical or improper use of a drug
Illegal drug use can turn into drug abuse
What are teen complications from drug abuse?
Irreversible effects on the function of the still-developing brain
More susceptible to drug’s effects and addition
Lifelong struggles
What is the cycle of addiction?
Brain reward system releases dopamine to encourage healthy behaviors
Drug abuse releases dopamine, tricking the brain into thinking the drug is good for your health
What is another effect on the brain?
Changes the biological makeup of the brain which can be permanent
What is drug use in the cycle of addiction?
Provides pleasure, relief from pain or discomfort
What is tolerance in the cycle of addiction?
Body become accustomed to the drug, requiring higher dosages to achieve the desired effect
What is dependence in the cycle of addiction?
A person believes they need the drug (psychological)
A person’s body is chemically dependent
(physiological)
What is addiction in the cycle of addiction?
Loss of control
Manifestation of severe consequences
Compromised brain function - disorder
What is withdrawal in the cycle of addiction?
Mental and physical effects when a drug is taken away
May compel addict to continue drug use
What are symptoms of addiction?
Need for regular drug use, inability to stop using the drug, must maintain a constant supply of the drug
Spends all money on the drug
What are risky behaviors of drug use?
Uses the drug as a coping mechanism
Engages in risky behavior to get and under the influence of the drug
Main focus is getting and using the drug
What is an overdose?
A strong physical reaction to an intentional or unintentional consumption of a larger than usual amount of drugs
No dosages for illegal drugs
How can drug abuse cause suicide?
Many drugs are depressants
Amplify pre-existing negative emotions
Drugs affect a person’s ability to have good judgement and assess risk
How can drug abuse lead to infectious disease?
Shared needles share blood
Diseases include HIV, Hepatitis B, and Endocarditis (can be fatal)
What is drug use?
The use of legal and illegal drugs
