Drugs and Substances

Study Notes

Introduction

A drug is a substance that affects the body's physiology or psychology
Can be used to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent diseases
Can also be used to enhance physical or mental performance
Can be legal or illegal, depending on the jurisdiction and intended use

Risks

Addiction: physical or psychological dependence on a drug
Overdose: taking too much of a drug, leading to harmful or life-threatening effects
Interactions: combining drugs can lead to harmful interactions, including increased risk of overdose or adverse effects
Side effects: unwanted effects of a drug, ranging from mild to severe
Health problems: long-term use of drugs can lead to health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, or mental health disorders

Classes

Stimulants: increase alertness and energy, e.g. cocaine, amphetamines, caffeine
Depressants: slow down brain function, e.g. opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol
Hallucinogens: alter perception, e.g. LSD, psilocybin, ecstasy
Opioids: relieve pain, e.g. morphine, heroin, fentanyl
Cannabinoids: affect mood and perception, e.g. marijuana, THC

General Information

Prescription drugs: legal drugs available only with a doctor's prescription
Recreational drugs: illegal drugs used for non-medical purposes
Drug abuse: using drugs in a way that is harmful to oneself or others
Drug tolerance: the need for increasing amounts of a drug to achieve the same effect
Withdrawal: symptoms that occur when a person stops using a drug after long-term use

Description

Test your knowledge about drugs, their effects, risks, and classes. Learn about stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and more. Understand the differences between prescription and recreational drugs, and the consequences of drug abuse.