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84 views32 pagesHealth Chapter 7 Text
Uploaded by
Kyra MadoreCopyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF or read online on Scribd
“[Hlave nofellowship with the
unfrultful works of darkness,
but rather reprove them,
Ch.7 Avoiding Drug Abuse
the world, Abuse ‘oth legal and ilegal, causes hundr
thousands of deaths each yearin the Uni
families and ruins countle
at benefit: to mankind:
ause substantial harm.
is and Medicines
nan has searched for substances that
7.1 _Dr
Since ancient time:
me of the suffering caused by diseases. Before
the rise of modem chemistry, the only medicines available were
the
could alleviate s
plants and plant products. Ancient medical records, such
swritings of the Greek physician Hippocrates (460-370 Bc.)
that many useful medicines were known. Many modern medicines
‘were originally derived from plants or are functionally similar to
plant chemicals. Such medicines as penicillin, quinis
ne, ephedrine,
codeine, andl taxol can be derived directly from plants, while
aspirin, berzocaine, and many other medicines are plant com-
pounds that have been slightly modified to reduce their side effects.
Drugs as medicine
‘A drug isa substance that alters the function ofthe body in
some way. A medicine is a substance (such as a drug) that is used
to cure or treat a disease or alleviate some of its symptonys. Drugs
and other medicines may be used to fight pathogens, to help
regulate body funetions, to relieve pain, to soothe inflamed tissues,
or even to prevent a disease from occurring
OTC medicines. Drugs and medicines are heavily regulated by
the US. federal government, primarily through the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA). Any drug sold in the U.S, must go through a
lengthy and expensive approval process. Medicines that the FDA
considers unlikely o be abused and that have minimal side effects
ccan be sold to the general public as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.
Prescription medicines. Modicines that the FDA deems
likely to be abused or that have significant side effects ean be sold
to the general public only by a doctor's prescription; thus, these
1edicines are known as prescription drugs. ‘The content
packaging, and advertising of medicines are controlled by the FDA
as well. For prescription medications, the FDA also decides such
things as how long a prescription can be valid, how many refilis are
allowed, and how much information the manufacturer provides to
doctors and patients, Medicines Derived from Plants
Medicine
Aspirin
‘Auropine
Benzocai
(and ansiogs
Caffeine, theophyline,
theebromine
Codeine, morphine
Primary Use
ote fo nerve poisons: speeds up slow heartbeat
rieal medication
Source
bean, ta leaves, cocoa
(Chocolate) plant, ola nut
‘plum parey
“Colchicine | veaiment of gout exigpod gly iy
| Curare | muscle relaxant during un Cchondradendron pant
| ubocuratine)
‘Cyclosporin A | immune suppressant (prevents ransplani rejection) soil fungus
‘Digitalis | cardiac muscle stimulant (reats congestive heart Talure) | Foxglove plant
Emetine | induces vomiting (used for poison ingestion): also used | ipecac plant
a8 antiprotozoal drug |
Ephedrine, | nasal decongestanis, mild stimulants, asthma treatment | ma huang
| pseudoephedrine
[Ledopa | vealment for Parkinson's disease velvet bean
‘Methyl salieyiate
(cilof wintergreen)
iopleal analgesic (riment)
tire ol boxberry
Quinine | antimalarial drug, arthts treatment | wa of cnchona re
Penicilin | antibiote 1 Foster molé ongua)
| Reserpine | decreases bood pressure nakeroot plant
‘Seopolamine
teats motion sickness; presurgcal medication
mmancrake
Texel
vinblastine
Wetean)
anticancer dua
cancer chemotherapy
ark of Paco yew vee
rosy periwinkle
‘lan rom which mediche is or has been derived eludes chemicaly unmodified lor
‘Some of the most common prescription medicines are
antibiotics, chemical substances that stop the growth of bacte-
via,
Strong pain relievers are prescription only; so are strong
stimulants, depressants, hormones, serums, vaccines, diagnostic
tests, anticancer drugs, and medical equipment
Pain relievers
Pain relievers are among the most widely used of all medi=
cines. There are two basic categories of pain relievers, known as
anesthetics and analgesies [An al-jé"2iks}.
‘Types of anesthetics.
. Anesthetics may be described as,
Medicines that cause loss of feeling
are known as anestheti
elther local or general:
7.1 Drugs and Medicines 239 ‘Application
analgesic and an anes
infection
red person:
inntabiity, aggressiveness, and
* Loss of consciousness, delirium, o
240 Ch.7 Avoiding Drug Abuse
+ Local anestheties cause numbness in limited part of the
body (such as when a patient receives a Novocain shot at
the dentist),
* General anesthetics enier ihe bloodstream and prevent
feeling by the body as a whole (often by causing uncon
8),
Most local and general anesthetics are controlled substances that
may be used only by health care practitioners. However, a class of
local anesthetics called topical anesthetics (because they are
applied to the skin or mucous membranes) ar
counter. Common OTC anesthetics are benzocaine and tidcain
ailable oversthe
found in sunburn lotions and some first-aid antisepties. Other
and
OTC anesthetics are commonly used in sore-throat spray
lozenges
Common analgesics. Medicines that reduce the sensation of
pain but do not cause loss of other skin senses (touch, pressure,
and temperature) are called analgesies. Over-the-counter analge
sics are usually in tablet or capsule form, although a few preserip-
tion analgesics may be given intravenously, A few analgesies are
topical, such as oil of wintergreen (methy! salicylate), which is
ssed in many OTC er
muscles and aching joints,
‘The oldest OTC analgesic in common use is aspirin (acetyl-
salicylic acid), invented in 1897. Aspirin is a derivative of a drug
found in willow bark, which has been used as an analgesic since
ancient times. Aspirin relieves pain by reducing the ability of
neurons to transmit pain messages to the brain. It also helps
atment of osteoar
eams andl liniments to ease pain from sore
reduce inflammation, making it useful in the tr
thritis. At high doses, aspirin can slow the secretion of protective
mucus by the stomach, increasing the risk of stomach itritation;
for this reason, you should discontinue use if you begin having
stomach pains after taking the drug,
Like other OTC analgesics, aspirin acts as an anvipyret
U-pi-rer'ik: a substance that reduces fever]. However, some
reports have suggested that the risk of developing a rare
encephalitis-like disease in young people called Reye's [riz]
syndrome may be increased by the use of aspirin. For this reason
many doctors suggest that aspirin not be used to relieve fevers or
flulike symptoms in persons under 18.
The analgesic acetaminophen (3-96! to-min 6-fen), better
known by the trace name ‘Tylenol, was introduced in the U.S. in
the 1950s, The pain-relieving and fever-reducing effects of
acetaminophen are similar to those of aspir
however, aceta- minophen does not reduce inflammation. Many doctors
consider acetantinophen to be safer than aspitin for treating,
ulike symptoms in children and young adults; itis also less
lnvitating to the stomach at high doses. However, overdoses of
acetaminophen should be avoided because they can cause liver
damage, particularly in people who drink alcohol regularly or
are fasting.
Ibuprofen {i bii-pro' en}, first introduced as a prescription
pain reliever in 1969, was approved as an OTC analgesic in
1984, Like aspirin, ibuprofen relieves pain and reduces inflam-
mation and fever, but is considered less irritating to the diges:
tive tract. Other OTC analgesics that are relatively new on the
market include naproren sodium (known by the trade name
Aleve) and ketoprofen. As with any drug, overdoses of these
substances are harmful and should be avoided.
Other common medicines
‘When a pathogen such as a cold virus attacks your respira-
tory tract, special white blood cells in the surrounding tissues
release a chemical messenger called histamine to “sound the
alarm,” In response, blood vessels enlarge, the tissues become
inflamed, and white blood cells go to battle against the invad.
ers. Unfortunately, the white blood cells sometimes overreact
to harmless substances such as pollen, triggering fits of sneez:
ing and a stuffy or runny nose. OTC medicines called antihis-
tamines block the action of histamine, allowing the tissues to
return to normal
Some other categories of OTC medications inchide the
following:
* Decongestants—help clear stuffy sinuses and nasal
passages, and may also reduce chest congestion.
* Cough suppressants—help stifle the urge to cough; used
when a repetitive dry cough is causing pain and irritation.
Cough suppressants containing an expectorant loosen
mucus in the lungs and bronchial tubes, making coughs
more productive in clearing the respiratory passages,
* Antiseptics and first-aid ointments—kill pathogens in
minor cuts and scrapes to prevent infection. Some also
contain topical anesthetics to ease the pain,
* Skin-care produets—include acne medicines, antifungal
medicines, and soothing creams to treat a variety of
conditions.
* Medicines to treat mild digestive disorders—include
antacids, antidiarrheal medications, and laxatives.
Common OTC
modes GEESE gst p
7.1 Drugs and Medicines 241 When you are prescribed a medicine by your physician, be
sure that you know the answers fo dhe following questions (ask
your physician or pharmacist if you are not sure);
* Can the medicine be taken with other medicines that |
lake?
+ Does the medicine have any food restrictions?
there special requirements for storing the medicine
* Does the medicine have any side effects?
* How soon should the medicine take effect?
| + How long should I continue using the medicine?
* What should I do if [forget to take a dose?
Also be careful not to misuse the medicine you have been pre-
scribed, such as by
* Taking medicine for a longer time than was prescribed
‘+ Taking more or less than the prescribed amount (unless the
| prescription or instructions advise you to take the medicine
| ‘as needed”)
‘+ Combining medicines (without advice of a pharmacist or
| physician)
Taking someone else's prescription medicine (or giving a
| prescription medicine to someone else)
Whether you are using an (
| _medicne be sue to read the Ibel or package insert carefully an
to follow directions about dosage, timing, and duration, Espe
cially note the
your driving ability or cause drowsiness.
medicine or a prescription
ings: for example, son
Apply Your Knowledge
Career et
jistinguish between the terms drug and medicine.
low do OTC drugs and prescription drugs differ?
i
i oink
For the following conditions, name the type of treatment
that would be used: anesthetic, analgesic, or antihistamine
allergy * dental surgery
sore Uroat fever
* headache
242 Ch. 7 Avoiding Drug Abuse Pharmacist/Pharmacologist 7
One medical profession that is some-
times overlooked is that of the pharmacist
People tend to picture pharmacists filing
prescriptions all day, but these profession.
als are responsible for much more. When
a person gets a prescription filled, the
pharmacist checks to see that no other
medications that the person is taking will
3. Pharma-
react with the new prescripti
cists also give advice to physicians and
other health care providers about recom-
mended drug usage for their patients
‘Most pharmacists advise their customers
about the effects of OTC drugs as well and
help in the decision process, Some even
set aside times to talle in detail to those
concerned about the effects of their
iedications. Most pharmacists work in
‘conumunity pharmacies” or in hospitals.
To become a licensed pharmacist, one
nnjust graduate from an accredited phat
macy program (usua
total), pass a State examination, and serve
y taking five years
‘an internship under a licensed pharmacist
While many graduates receive a Bachelor
of Science in Pharmacy, another degree,
the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), takes
‘one additional year of training and eduea-
tion and is quickly becoming the most
popular degree for colleges of pharmacy to
offer to their students.
A related field to pharmacy is pharma:
cology. Pharmacologists differ from
pharmacists in that they clevelop new
drugs, study how drugs work (test
their effects), and find new uses for
drugs. Most pharmacologists work
in the pharmaceutical industry; they
‘ean specialize in areas such as
neuropharmacology, cardiovascular
pharmacology, and endocrine
pharmacology. Educational re-
quirements generally include a four-
year undergraduate degree in
pharmacology or chemistry; many
graduates pursue their master's
(graduate) or doctoral degree,
taking three to six additional years
of study and research, to gain more
knowledge about their field
7.1 Drugs and Medicines
243 Fed.
ffects of drug abuse
rug Abuse and the Body Systems
‘The plant kingdom contains a wide variety of compounds
suitable for medicinal use; the science of chemistry has also led
to the discovery of new and more effective medicines. Unfortu:
nately, throughout history, drugs and medicines have also been
Widely abused. This is especially true of psychoactive drugs
drugs that can af
| psychoactive drugs because they enjoy the altered mental state
that the drug produces (such as euphoria, hallucinations, or
stupor). Others abuse drugs in order to satisfy theit friends or
peers. Unfortunately, the abuse of drugs has serious conse
he brain and mind, Some people abuse
quences, physically, mentally, and spiritually
Medical Meaning
Recall that peycho- means "mind.
Once started, drug abuse isan extremly dificult habit to
break. This is true because many drugs cause dependenee; that
i, the user eventually beeames unable to function normally
without the drug. Ifthe user i unable to get another dase ofthe
dug, withdrawal symptoms appear within a few hours to afew
| days. Dependence may be referred to as physical or psychological
| «Physical dependence involves changes in body function
that oceur asa result of the drug, causing physical with
drawal symptoms ifthe drugis withheld, These symptoms
include aches and pains, diarrhea, tremors, and nausea
| +Psuchotogicat dependence involves mental and emo
tional changes that occur asa result ofthe drug's effects on
| the brain, causing psychologial withdrawal symptoms i
; the drugis withheld. These symptoms may include chera-
cal or psyechologialcepression, strong cravings for the
drug, confusion, ieritability, or anxiety.
Drugs that cause psychological dependence are powerfully
| addictive; thats, they tend to cause users to become enslaved
¥
branch | don
oF aor
244 Ch.7 Avoiding Drug Abuse to the drug, using it compulsively. Most addictive drugs interfere
with brain chemistry ina very specific way
* The drug causes excessive amounts of the neurotranstuitter
dopamine do’ pa-mén| to build up in the areas ofthe brain
associated with positive feelings, causing a temporary “high”
followed by a period of depression as the dg wears off
+ The brain adjusts to the drug by reducing its production of
dopamine. As a result, the addict requires more and more of
the drug to reach a “high’—a condition known as tolerance.
* Because of the decrease in the brain's production of dopa- |
mine, the addict finds that he cannot even maintain a normal
state of mind without the drug. Without anotherdose, he |
becomes despondent, psychotic, or suicidal, and may |
become consumed by intense cravings for the drug.
This process of dependence and tolerance leads to a vicious eyele
of bondage to the drug—a brief “high," followed by a devastating
“crash” and a desperate search for another dose, Often, the user
makes the drug the center of his life, sacrificing everything else—
family frends, and even his own health—for the drug |
Commonly abused drugs can be grouped into the following
major categories:
+ Narcoties
* Hallucinogens
+ Stimulants
* Depressants
+ Cannabinoids
‘Inhalants
+ Anabolic steroids |
Although many of these drugs have beneficial medicinal uses, they
all have serious potential for abuse as well. At higher doses, all
but the steroids are psychoactive (mind-altering) and lead to
tolerance, dependence, and addiction. |
Narcotics
‘The narcotics are drugs that relieve pain and may produce
euphoria and drowsiness. Mild narcotics are used in prescription
cough suppressants, pain relievers, and antidiarrheal medications.
Legitimate medical uses of strong narcotics include relief of
moderate to severe pain (such as postsurgical pain or pain associ
fated with cancer), However, the abuse of narcotics has a number
of serious consequences:
* A.user of mind-altering quantities of a narcotic quickly
develops tolerance to the drug (requiring higher and higher
doses to maintain the same effect).
Nerve impul:
ansmission
1 Nerve impulse travels along axon
tosynapse,
2. Impulse causes neurotransmitter
molecules tobe released into
synapse.
3 Newrotranemitters attach
dendrite of 2rl neuron triggering
it to fie.
nerve inpise
4 Neurotransmitters are gradually
absorbed,
+ Why might peycholagical dependence
be more dlfficult to overcome than
physical dependence?
72 Drug Abuse and the Body Systems 245 * Nearly all narcoties are adiictive (habit-forming) at mind
| altering doses, causing both pliysical and psychological
dependence
* Physical withdrawal symptoms inelude body aches,
diarrhea, dehydration, excessive sweating, chills,
goosebumps, muscle tremors, a runny nose, sneezing, an
watery eyes. These symptoms begin within a day or two
after the person quits using the drug and may last for
several days.
+ Psychological withdrawal symptoms include strong
cravings for the drug, severe depression, ivitability, and
anxiety; these feelings are more difficult to overcome.
Heavy narcotic use suppresses appetite, often causing addicts to
| become severely malnourished, Long-term use tends to suppress
the immune system, leaving addicts more vulnerable to disease.
Many users who begin by ingesting narcotics eventually tum
to intravenous use to txy to increase the effect, Injection users
extremely susceptible to tetanus, hepatitis, and HIV (the virus
associated with AIDS) acquired from contaminated needles.
cut” (diluted) with
Because narcotics sold on the street are often
inexpensive filler such as cornstarch or quinine, the user never
knows for sure what he is injecting into his body. Heavy users
| sometimes require $100 to $200 worth of narcoties every day, and
ling, or prostitution to support
may tum to thefl, robbery, drug d
their habit.
Opiates, Because m
plum poppy plant, they are commonly called opiates [6!pi-its)
Opium, the juice
the time of Abraham. In Victorian England, a solution of opium
and alcohol known as daudanum was commonly used as 2
painkiller. Unfortunately, opium has a strong tendency to be
addictive, especially when used in mind-altering doses,
| Opium is not a single drug, but a mixture of about 30 different
Substances. In the early 1800s, scientists first succeeded in
separating opium into its component parts. The main active
t narcotics are derived from the
this plant, has been used as a painkiller
ingredient in opium is morphine {mor‘ten], a paiz-relieving
opiate first isolated in 1803. Morphine is about 10 times stron
than the same amount of opium. When used in a medical context
under the supervision of a skilled doctor, morphine is extremely
valuable for its ability (o safely alleviate severe pain. However,
‘morphine’s addictive nature makes it very dangerous when used
in the wrong way; the drug must be tapered off gradually as the
| _ pain subsides, or else the patient may become addicted to the
‘The other active ingredient in opium, known as codeine
246 Ch.7 Avoiding Drug Abuse kofdén), is much weaker than morphine; it is commonly used in
prescription cough medicines and analgesies,
In the late 1990s, a chemically altered form of morphin
called heroin (her! din) was introduced. Iicit heroin cones in
several forms, ra
4 from a white powder to a black tarlike
substance. In the past, heroin was usually dissolved in a fluid and
injected, but smoking and sniffing are also
vcoming prevalent
Heroin is 2 to 3 times stronger than the same amount of morphine
and is extremely adilfetiv
witherawal is said to be
potency and addictive nature, heroin was banned in the United
States in the 1920s.
Opioids. Synthetic narcotics not derived from opium
(sometimes called opivids) inelude fentanyl, meperidine
oth physically and psychologically
2 of its
cenuciatingly painful. Becau
(Demerol), methasione, hydrocodone, oxycodone, and
hydrom
pain relievers and surgical anesthetics, but are harmful if abused.
Impurities in some illegally manufactured opioids have led to
phone (Dilaudid). ‘These drugs are used medically as
severe Parkinson's disease in young users.
Hallucinogens
Drugs which produce hallucinations are referred to as
hallucinogens (ha-liv’si-na-jénz] or psychedelic drugs.
Because oftheir bizarre effects, most hallucinogens are not used
for any medicinal purposes
LSD. One of the most powerful hallucinogens is LSD
(dysergic acid diethylamide). LSD is usually ingested or absorbed
furough the skin, causing rapid disruption of normal mental
processes, A hallucinating experience caused by LSD is called a
“nip.” Sometimes the user experiences a “good” trip, and some:
trip, which can be terrifying
reality, a deranged user may kill
times he experiences a “ba
Because he loses touch w
himself or others; users have been known to jump off buildings,
thinking they could fly. After a trip, the user may suffer depres-
sion and anxiety. For several months after a person diseontinues
the use of LSD, he may experience a flashback, a recurrence of
a previously experienced trip. If an LSD user does not return
from a trip, he Is sald to be “freaked out,” or mentally insane.
Other hallucinogens with effects similar to LSD are mescaline
(peyote) and psilocybin [si'l0-si’bin]. Psilocybin is also called
‘shrooms” because itis derived from a poisonous mushroom,
MDMA. A commonly abused hallucinogen that has appeared
lairly recently is MDMA (3 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine).
Common Names
Common Names
opide— china wi
Common Name
Drug Abuse and the Body Systems
2a7 MDOIA is similar in sone ways to other hallucinogens but bass
some effects of a stimulant as well. MDMA increases tle amount
Common Names uieceeiees adimulant es well: AU
1DMA E of the neurotransmitter serofonin [se 9-10'nin} in the brain’s
inbic system (affecting the emotions) and the hypothalamus
‘affecting the autonomic nervous system). ‘The drug has a variety
of short-term effects
* Inhibitions are reduced, and mood is drastically altered,
*# Senses are distorted; at higher doses, hallucinations occur
* Blood pressure drops, and the heart rate ine
* Kidney function is impaired, potentially leading to fluid
mbalance in body tissues and dehydration of importan
organs,
* Inereased body temperature, or hyperthermia (has cause¢
death in isolated cases).
+ Severe migraines may occur
«Spasms of facial muscles and eye tremors may occur at,
high doses or with prolonged use
| * Tolerance to the drug's psychological effects develops
quickly, requiring higher doses and leading to more serious
side effects
‘The longterm effects of MDMA
* Serotonin-producing neurons are damaged (or killed, at
high doses), leading to long-term serotonin deficiency and
alterations in brain function
* Shortage of serotonin in the limbic system leads to depres.
sion and other emotional disturbances.
¢ also serious:
+ Reduced mental acuity
+ Athigh doses, MDMA is toxi othe iver and has eaused
+ Hormone levels are disrupted, posably lading to reproduc
tive problems
PCP, Another hallucinogen which is commonly abused is
PCP (phenyleyclohexylpiperdine). Inthe 1950s, PCP was
developed for use asa surgical anesthete, but was deemed
unsuitable for humans because of ts unpredictable and danger
Common Names | ouside effects. Ir was used fora
PCP— angel duet (powder | anesthetic but was pulled from the market because of its wide-
hort time as a veterinary
spread abuse,
* PCP is one of the most dangerous and unpredictable of all
drugs.
+ PCP can cause severe vomiting, seizures, strokes, ex:
tremely high fevers (up to 108°F), brain damage, psychotic
behavior, coma, and even death
* One dose of PCP can cause permanent physical and mental
damage in some people
248 Ch. 7 Avoiding Drug Abuse Ketamine, Another LSDitike hallucinogen whose use is Common N
mes
apparently spreading is ketamine [ke/ta-men]. Although similai ketamine—A
to LSD and MDMA in its effects, it also has some similarities to
PCP. Like PCP, ketamine was developed as a surgical anesthetic
but was taken off the market because of harmful side effects.
Stimulants
Drugs which speed up the activity of the central nervous
system are called stimulants. Commonly abused stimulants |
include cocaine and various forms of amphetamines. Repeated
use of stimulants often causes sleeplessn¢
s, confusion, anxiety
invitability, vomiting, and mental disorders.
Cocaine. One of the most powerful stimulants is cocaine, a
tirug derived from the leaves of the coca (not cocoa) plant. ‘The
‘rug is used medically as a local anesthetic, particularly in eye,
nose, and throat surgery, because ofits ability to numb tissues |
Common Nam
and constriet blood vessels on contact. When the drug is abused,
however, it can have devastating effects:
* Cocaine strongly affects the brain’s dopamine levels (see
page 244-245), causing a temporary feeling of heightened
alertness and euphoria, followed by a period of depression
as the drug wears olf.
+ A shortage of dopamine quickly develops, causing the
habitual user to become more and more despondent when
he is not taking the drug; he may eventually be unable to
experience pleasure from any other source. For this
reason, the psychological dependence produced by cocaine
is one of the strongest of any drug,
* Although the brain rapidly develops tolerance to cocaine,
the drug also acts as a heart stimulant, and the heart does
not develop the same tolerance to the drug as the brain
does. For this reason, an addict may find that the amount
of cocaine necessary to give him a “high” will cause immme-
diate and fatal heart failure instead,
+ Some users may suffer from the “cocaine bugs’—the drug
stimulates sensory nerves, causing the user to feel as if
swarms of insects are crawling under his skin, This sensa
tion may cause the user to scratch his skin until he causes
raw, open sores,
Until the mid-1980s, cocaine was usually used as a powder,
which was inhaled and absorbed through the linings of the nasal
passages. Latoya different form of coin, called crac comine | odo Cort
or erack, became more prevalent. Crack consists of stall
rocklike crystals of cocaine that are smoked by means of a small
glass pipe; the name comes from the cracking sound the drug,
2 Drug Abuse and the Body Systems 249 Common
amphe'
Common Nam
methamphetamine—ict
Avoiding Drug Abuse
makes as itis heated, Smoking crack is even more dangerous,
anc addictive than inhaling powdered cocaine, because the deuig
is absorbed into the bloodstream much faster when smoked
Auuphetamines. The amphetamines [a-let/a-mven7 | are
stimulants whieh speed up the body's mietabolisma, Although
anuphietamines with legimate medical uses are available by a
doctor's preseription, these drugs are sometimes abused, and
some forms of amphetamines are ill
The effects of amphetamines on the brain are similar to the
effects of cocaine. Large doses of amphetamines produce
temporary feeling of alertness and euphoria, followed by lethargy
depression, and strong psychological dependence, As with
cocaine, falerance develops quickly,
+ Habitual users suffer a loss of appetite which can lead to
malnutrition and fatigue, making them more prone to
disease.
+ Long-term us
animals and may do the same in humans.
+ Amphetamines can also cause strokes, serious damage to
the liver and kidneys, delirium and suicidal tendencies, and
has caused permanent brain damage i
sometimes insanity.
‘Methamphetamine [meth tim-fe’a-men] isa fasteracting
derivative of amphetamine that produces a temporary “rush” or
euphoria followed by depression. Methamphetamine is some.
mes chemically altered into a crystalline form known as ice ot
erystal meth, which resembles crack cocaine in appearance; like
crack, ice is smoked, causing its effects to be more immediate
and more dangerous than taking the drug in pill form.
Methamphetamine is powerfully addictive. Habitual users
(Cspeed freaks") often fall into a “binge” pattem of use, smoking
or injecting another dose as soon as the previous dose begins to
subside and requiring more and more of the drug each time to
maintain the “high.
which the addict neither eats nor sleeps and becomes more and
more psychotic. Eventually, the body is so weakened that further
doses of the drug cannot sustain the high, and the addict
“crashes” into depression, weakness, and fatigue; as the crash
dict may also become paranoid and violent.
Once a person is addicted to meth, itis extremely difficult to quit
A binge may last for several days, during
approaches, the ad
the drug
Methamphetamine addiction is extremely harmful to both the
body and
Addicts are often malnourished and dehydrated,
mind: # An addict may die without warning of a heart attack ov
stroke if he accidentally takes too much of the drug
# Sovere personality changes may occur, causing the addict
o become paranoid, psychotic, and unpredictable
* Methamphetamine addicts often live very short lives; many
meth users are killed by Ue crug in less than. 10 years
through malnutrition, accidental overtlose, suicide, motor
vehicle accidents, or violence.
Depressants
Drugs that slow down brain activity are called depressants,
Depressants often procluce feelings of tranquility or sleepiness,
Most depressants cause drowsiness or relaxation by interfering
with the activities ofthe reticular formation in the brain stem,
which is largely responsible for wakefulness. Depressants are
used medically as sedatives, as sleep aids (in treatment for
insomnia), and in the treatment of certain anxiety disorders,
However, the abuse of depressants has serious consequences
A person who misuses a depressant may become pliysi-
cally dependent and suffer withdrawal symptoms (severe,
prolonged headache and nausea) if the drug is withheld
Sudden withdrawal from heavy use may even be fatal
Tolerance may develop with repeated use.
* Overdose of any depressant Is extremely dangerous
because it can shut down the areas of the brain stem that
control breathing, causing death by suffocation. This can
‘occur even at relatively low doses if the drug is consumed
along with alcohol.
‘* Many cocaine and heroin addicts use depressants to try to
cease the “crash” that results when the effects of the primary
drug wear off; combining drugs in this fashion simply adds
to the dangers.
‘The most commonly abused depressants (other than
aleohol) in the early 1900s through the 1960s were the barbi-
turates (biir-bi’tdr-its]. Although barbiturates are commonly
used in prescription medicines, abuse of these depressants is
highly dangerous.
‘Today, the most commonly abused depres
benzodiazepines [bén z0-ci-az’e-penz], widely prescribed as
sedatives and as treatments for insomania. ‘The well-known
sedative Valium (diazepam) belongs to this group. Another
sedlative in this group, Rohypnol (rd-hip'ndl: Mlunitrazepam, is,
extremely dangerous because it causes the user to become
ants are the
unconscious or passively compliant, followed by a period of
amunesia (depencling on the dose); its effects are strengthened by
72 Drug Abuse and the Body Systems
For mary, the decision £0
with drugs has led to addiction, crime,
‘and imprisonment
Common Names
jodiazepineo—V vale vail
fies, roach rock [shal]
(Rohyprot) mimon Names
rmarjuana os, wee
|
Ch. 7 Avoiding Drug Abuse
—
Alcohol. Female users of Rolypnothatve commonly been sexual
assaulted by their “friends” while under the drug’ influences th
«drag is sometimes slipped into beverages to be alven to unstispeet
ing vietims. Beeause of these atrocities, Rotiypnolis illegal in thy
United States.
Marijuana and related drugs
Drugs that are derived from the hemp plant (Cannabis satinay
are known as cannabinoids [kin'-bin-oilz J. The most com,
monly abused illegal drug in the United States is marijuana
(mir (-wit/na}, a cannabinoid manufact
wed from the leaves and
blossoms of the hemp plant, Marijuana has a combination of
hallucinogenic, stimulant, and depressant effects on the body
Several million Americans now regularly use marijuana; the average
beginning age of a user is 13 years, A cannabinoid called hasitish
[hish’sh], commonly referred to as hash, is sometimes made from
the resin or gum of the same plant, The active ingredient in canna
binoids is a potent drug called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol
byproducts of THC breakdown may remain in the brain for months,
A form of marijuana k ‘without
seed”), made from the buds and flowers of the female cannabis
plant, has the highest THC content.
Physical effects of smoking marijuana are similar to those
caused by smoking tobacco, Because marijuana smoke is inhaled
more deeply ai
nas sinsemilla [sén’sin
kept in the lungs longer, some scientists think that
smoking a single marijuana “joint” may be as damag
a8 smoking several tobacco cigarettes, Smoking marijuana is
harmful to the body in several ways:
* The risk of developing cancer (particularly lung cancer) is
increased.
+ The reproductive organs may be affected; some studies
suggest that levels of reproductive hormones may be reduced,
leading to reduced fertility. Use by pregnant women may
ging to the lungs
cause problems for the unborn child,
* The eyes may become chronically bloodshot and extremely
sensitive to light.
+ Immune function may be impaired, leading to greater suscep-
Lubility to respiratory infections.
‘Smoking marijuana also has harmful mental and emotional
effects on the user. Immediately after smoking a *joint,” the user
typically experiences several psychological changes;
* Motivation and self-discipline are replaced by a listless apathy.
+ Memory, judgment, coordination, and depth perception are
impaired, things hat he ng no oterise da GGL
+ Heavy use can lead to hallucinations and paranoia
Although marijuana does not eause physieal dependence,
some users may become psychologically dependent on it, Over
time, heavy users may become “burned out” and feel paranoid,
depressed, and isolated, Eventually, some users become bored
with the effects of marijuana and move on to “harder” drugs like
ine or heroin, Some marijuana cigarettes are laced with PCP,
D, or even embalming fluid to increase their effects.
Inhalants
Rather than purchase and use illegal drugs, some people try
‘o “get high” by inhaling concentrated vapors from volatile
jousehold chemicals such as gasoline, glue, fingernail polish
remover, and solvents, What many people do not realize is that at
high concentrations, many of these substances are even more
dangerous than “hard” drugs like LSD |
and cocaine, Inhalation of concentrated
chemical vapors can cause headache, aime star ||
nausea, chemical pneumonia, and loss waynes stoe | yf
bladder and bowel control. Repeated ane | E
se can lead to brain damage, liver
lure, kidney failure, blindness, and
even cardiac arrest
Steroids
Although not mind-altering drugs, anabolie steroids are
commonly abused among teenagers and young adults, especially
by males, Anabolic steroids are chemicals that seek to imitate
the male hormone testosterone. Users typieally abuse steroids in
order to build muscle mass more rapidly than by exercise alone. ames
infortunately, steroid use disrupts the body's growth hormones
and sex hormones, leading to such problems as stunted growth,
baldness, halitosis, severe acne, and damage to the liver and
irculatory systems. In males, steroid use can cause the gonads
abnor
‘atrophy, resulting in permanent damage and infertility
nal enlargement of the breasts may also occur. Female steroid
experience growth of facial hair, deepening of
the voice, atrophy of the breasts, and infert
Drug Abuse and the Body Systems 253 254 Ch.7 Avoiding Drug Abuse
Long-term e'
Physical and psychologieal e
fects of drug abuse
ects of drugs on the
quences, Because the ¢
nervous systemt are long lasting and habit
forming, drug use may alter a person's entive life
AS the abuse of drugs continues, a decrease in
the user's mental and physical abilities becomes
noticeable. A person who habitually uses drugs
almost always becomes addicted to them
Eventually, the satisfaction of his desire for drugs
becomes the user's main goal, even as his life
falls apart and his body wastes away, Many drug
users become insane or permanently confused as
a result of brain damage; others may develop
cancer or find that they are no longer able to
have children,
Social consequences. drug user changes
his way of living as he tries to obtain drugs
without the knowledge of his family. He may
change friends. If the user is caught by the
police, he may spend many years in prison; even
after he is released, he will Live with a permanent criminal record
and the loss of cherished civil rights. Tragically, many people
who experiment with drugs will carry the sears of their sin,
whether physical, mental, emotional, or social, for the rest of
thelr lives
Preventing drug abuse
‘The most important step for preventing the problems caused
by dug abuse is abstinence—avoid experimenting with any
dirug. A Christian, whose body is the temple of the Holy Spirit,
to abstain from all injurious habits, including the abuse of
drugs,
‘The influence that your friends have on you—and that you
any people use
have on your friends—is called peer pressure.
drugs because of peer pressuure—they want to “fit in” ot are afraid
of what their friends will think if they refuse, Exodus 232
“Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil.” Never be influ
enced by others to do wrong. You—not your friends—will bear
the consequences of your decision if you choose to use drugs,
tes, Pao PE ng
of drug abuse peer pressure
1. Contrast physical dependence with psychological depend
2, What is the most commonly abused ill
United States?
gal drug in the
Analyze Match the drug category with its description,
a.cannabinoids 4 narcoties
D.depressants _e, stimulants
c. hallueinoge
1
2. produce hallucinations
3, speed up activity of CNS
sed medically to relieve severe pain
4, slow down brain activity
5. derived! from the hemp plant
Think
1. Explain how tolerance develops in a drug addict.
2. How can an addictive drug’s effects on the brain cause
a user to become enslaved to the drug?
Although illegal drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin
frequently receive more attention, the vast majority of deug-
related deaths and health problems are caused by two legal
rugs—alcohol and tobacco, Roughly 11,000 Americans die from
the effects of illegal drugs every year, but hundreds of thousands
die from the effects of alcohol and tobacco.
Alcohol (chemically known as ethanol) is possibly the most
widely abused drug in the world today. Over 100 million
Americans consume alcoholic beverages at least once per month;
30 million are occasional “binge” drinkers, and over 10 million are
heavy drinkers. The average age of a person who begins drinking
is just over 12 years. In the United States alone, itis estimated
that alcohol claims the lives of 100,000 people each year through
accidents, disease, andl criminal behavior.
>
>
>
>
>
Do not apologize for your deci
12a firm friendly to
Use direct eye contact to show that
7.3 Alcohol and Health 2 Ch. 7 Avoiding Drug Abuse
Alcohol has been known, and abused, for thousands of year
listotical records indicate that alcohol abuse was common int
ancient Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Greece, and Rome. Rome in
particular was noted for alcoholism, which may have played a
part in the fall of the Roman Empire, ‘The Bible contains a strong
waming about alcohol
Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: ane whosoever is
locelved thereby isnot wise. —Prow. 20:1
Forms of alcohol
Alcoholic beverages come in various forms, Beer is fer
mented from grains, while wines are usually fermented from
fruits or berries (usually grapes). Hundreds of years ago, even
the strongest alcoholic beverages had an alcohol content of 14%
or less; higher levels were not possible because the
sast cells dl
her concentrations. It was only after the process of distilla
tion was invented that higher alcohol concentrations were
ften called spi
possible. Distilled alcoholic beverage
Liquor) typically contain 40-50% aleohol; examples include
whiskey, brandy, vodka, and gin. Spirits are also added to some
wines to boost their alcohol content. As a rule, a can of beer, a
glass of wine, and 1'ourices of hard liquor contain about the
same amount of alcohol,
Immediate effects
Effects on the brain. When alcohol is ingested, it quickly
enters the bloodstream from the stomach and stall intestine and
is camied to every part of the body. When alcohol
brain, itinterferes with specific neurotransmitter
thought and motor areas of the cerebral cortex, Alcohol acts as a
thes the
tems in the
depressant of the conte: 1us system, slowing down the
functions of the brain regions that itaffeets. Alcohol begins by
depressing the inhibitory centers of the brain, producing a
general loss of inhibitions, or self-control. The person's behavior
becomes unpredictable; he may do things he ordinarily would
s emotionally unstable
and may act silly iitable, angry, or depressed, Motor areas are
consider wrong, The person also becorn
affected, resulting in clumsiness and lack of coordination. As
more alcohol is consumed, the person's reactions become slower,
his judgment and the ability to reason are further impaired, his
thinking becomes increasingly confused, his spee
slurred, and his muscular control deteriorates. Very large quant
ties of alcohol result in unconsciousness and can be fatal. Effects on the liver, The liver, the only organ able (o break
down alcohol in the body, removes the alcohol from the blood:
stream by slowly converting it into another poison, acelaldelyyd
[as &1-al/dé- hil, al a rate of about ‘ounce per hour; acetalde
hyde is responsible for the heaclaches and nausea (*hangover”)
that follow alcohol «
nsumption. The acetaldehyde is eventually
changed to acetate and “burned” by body cells. Because alcohol
remains in the body until itis broken down by the liver, it may
take the body several hours to rid itself of only 1 or 2 drinks,
Effects on other organs.
of the body
«+ Alcohol causes the stomach to produce more concentrated
gastric juices; it can also irritate the stomach directly
Prolonged stomach irvitation increases the risk of ulcers,
* Blood vessels dilate, and blood flow to the skin increases
and the heart rate
Alcohol also affects other organs.
* Blood pressure drops temporarily,
cohol reduces the production of antidiuretic hormone
(ADH) by the hypothalamus, causing the kidneys to excrete
too much water. As a result, a person who drinks alcohol
may quickly become dehydrated.
Alcohol overdose. Alcohol is toxic at high doses, Orel
natily, if person drinks too much alcohol, he will pass out
because of its effects on the brain. When this occurs, the person
je runs some risk of choking to
death on his own vomit while unconscious. However, ifa person
drinks rapidly, he may ingest a potentially lethal dose of alcohol
before passing out. When this occurs, the person is said to sulfer
from acute alcohol poisoning, a life-threatening condition.
Symptoms of acute alcohol poisoning include the following:
will usually recover, althou
+ coma (state of unconsciousness from which the person
cannot be awakened)
+ pale or bluish skin that feels cold or clammy to the touch
+ unusually slow or irregular breathing
+ vomiting without regaining consciousness
{As the alcohol continues to build up in the bloodstream, the areas
of the brain stem that control breathing may shut down, causing
death. For this reason, a person who has consumed alcohol
recently and exhibits these symptoms needs immediate medical
attention; place the person in the recovery position (see page
and call 911. Be prepared to give respiratory assistance if the
person stops breathing.
Stages of alcoholic
intoxication
can, @
slug of spsch
73 Alcohol and Health
257 Long-term effects
Medical Meani Dependence. As with many other addictive digs, alcohol
t | affects ihe brain's dopamine levels (see pages 24-215), produc
e ing folerance, psychological dependence, and addiction; physica
lependence also occurs. About 10% of all people who drink
alcoholic beverages become aleoholies, or alcohol addicts. The
average age of alcoholics is dropping rapidly because of the
increasing number of teenage alcoholics. Stuclies show that
% alcoholics are more than 30 times as likely to commit suicide as
non-aleoholies.
Once a person has become dependent on aleohol, withelrawal
symptonis may occur if the drugis withdrawn, When a heavy
user abstains from alcohol, he may begin to perspire profusely,
speak incoherently, and suffer from terrifying hallucinations.
This syndrome is known as delirium tremens (lé-[i-'-2m
tre’menz: DTs]; as the name implies, it may be considered a type
of temporary insanity. Worse than the DTs, however, are the
consequences of continuing to drink heavily, which may inelude
‘mental breakdowns and (in some cases) permanent insanity
| Other neurological disorders. Some studies suggest that
th of
brain cells and a gradual, permanent decline in brain function
| heavy consumption of alcohol may cause accelerated di
nervous disorders such as memory loss, visual disturbances,
tremors, neuritis (itation or inflammation of nerves), and
permanent loss of motor skills may aso result
Liver disease. Ieavy drinking puts a tremendous strain on
the liver, which becomes overworked when large amounts of
alcohol are ingested year after year. Fatty deposits begin to build
up in liver cells, and their functioning may be impaired, As the
aleottol abuse continues, liver cells begin to die and the liver
becomes inflamed; this condition i called aleoholie hepatitis.
; | Eventually, lage numbers of liver cells die and are replaced by
| scar tissue, a condition called cirrhosis. Eventually, the failing
| ver can no longer meet the needs ofthe boy, and death rests,
| Cardiovascular disease. Alcohol abuse can also have
dvastating effects on the cardiovascular system. Heavy drinking
causes arrythmias (iregular heartbeats), elevates blood pressure
| ancl raises the level of triglycerides (fats) in the blood. The
Increased fats in the blood ean contribute to atherosclerosis,
which is factor in more than 40% of all adult de
United States
Normal liver |
Cirrhotic liver
inthe
258° Ch.7 Avoidin
Drug Abuse Gastrointestinal disorders, Consunp!
beverages can be irritating to the mucous membeane of the
gastrointestinal tract and may contribute to the formation of
1 cause diarrhea, nausea,
ulcers, Consuming large amounts e:
and vomiting. Chronic heavy drinking interferes with the body's
absorption of essential nutrients, such as the B complex vitamins,
ases the risk of oral
vitamin ©, zine, and magnesium, Italso incr
-ancer of the
cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, a
liver
Other effects. Heavy drinking for long periods of time also
greatly increases one's risk of pancreatitis [ping bré+9-i'tis) and
Kidney failure. Alcoholism ean also damage th
lowering hormone levels and causing infertility. A woman who
drinks during pregnancy can cause brain damage and birth
defects in her developing child
gonads in men,
Alcohol and society
Crimes. Because alcohol suppresses a person's inhibitions, a
person under the influence of alcohol may commit acts that he
would not allow himself to commit ifhe were sober. Every year,
over 10,000 murders, 50,000 rapes, and 680,000 violent assaults
are committed in the United States by people under the influence
of aleohol. Alcohol is involved in about half of all violent erimes:
+ 49% of murders
6 of rapes ancl other sexual assaults
+ 68% of incidents of manslaughter
+ 48% of robberies
+ 62% of ascanlts
+ 49% of other violent crimes
Aceidents. Because alcohol impairs judgment and
dents. For
coordination, it is a major cause of
example, a driver who has consumed alcohol often
believes he has the ability to drive safely
reaction time Is slower, his vision is affected, and he
often drives foolishly or aggressively, taking risks that
he would never ordinarily take. Every year in the
United States alone, alcohol contributes to thousands of
‘accidental deaths and injuries:
*# 16,000 deaths and 327,000 injuries in motor:
vehicle crashes
+ 3,000 deaths from falls
+ 2,000 deaths trom fire
1,000 deaths from drowning
+ 6,000 other fatal accidents
however, his
000 Americans are
killedin alcohol related automobile
7.8 Alcohol and Health The Grim Reaper of the Roa
As the basketball team left the locker room, Chad Akers
followed bis best friend, Todd Mason, to an old red pickup, “Here
itis,” Todd announced.
Chad raised his eyebrows, “Does it run?”
“Of course,” Todd replied confidently. “Get in and Pl prove it
10 you,
Friends since their Tall days, the (wo competed like broth
cers in everything from algebra to track, and one was rarely seen
apart from the other in the halls of Madison High. Todd's new
sty. As they drove out of
the school parking lot, the boys began to outline their plans for
ave them both a sense of
wheels
fe summer
‘Ten miles up the road, a young man with a half-empty bottle
in his hand climbed into a white Chevrolet Suburban. As he
drained the bottle, he began to accelerate, He was going 60 mph
when, for no apparent reason, he swerved into the oncoming,
lane. Todd Mason never knew what hit him, but Chad Akers had
Just enough warning to cover his face, The driver's side of the
pickup was demolished, and rescue workers
needed the jaws of life to remove the boys from
the wreck. With broken bones and internal
injuries, Chad would spend several months in
the hospital and then in rehabilitation, putting
him a year behind in school. He might heal in
time to enjoy summer vacation, but he would
spend it alone. His best friend Todd had died
upon impact,
Bvery year, drunk driving kills approxi
mately 16,000 Americans, many of whom are
innocent victims like Todd Mason. Despite ad
-ampaigns to promote “responsible” drinking
and “designated drivers,” many people still
choose to drink and drive, A large number of
offenders are young people under the legal age
for drinking, and many drunk drivers are repeat
offenders. Statistics can be shocking, but
sometimes a personal account better commun:
cates the message: Drunk driving kilts
260. Ch.7 Avoiding Drug Abuse Other social problems, Alcohol abuse is responsible for a
host of other social problems. Aleohol abuse contributes t¢
poverty because it destroys both the will to work and the ability
to work, leading people in their most productive years to squan
der their health, time, and finances in unproductive drinking.
Nearly a quarter of all suicides are aleohol-related, but aleohot
abuse harms others besides the drinker, Many divorces result
from alcohol abuse, and most cases of domestic violence involve
alcohol. ‘Thousands of babies are born each year with a condition
called fetal aleohot syndrome (FAS) because their mothers drank
heavily during pregnancy. FAS, which involves brain damage and
certain physical deformities, is responsible for most eases of
preventable (non-genetic) mental retardation in the United States,
Why people drink
Given the harm it-causes, why do people (particularly teen
agers) abuse alcohol? There are several possible reasons:
+ Image—in many cultures, drunkenness is considered a
disgrace, In the United States, however, heavy drinking is
often portrayed asa sign of strength, independence, self
confidence, humor, or “good times.
* Peer pressure—even though the majority of teenagers do
not drink, some choose to drink in order to “fit in” with a
particular group or to appease thelr peers.
+= Pride—some teenagers drink to try to appear older or more
sophisticated, or to *make a statement,”
+ Escape or relaxation—some people drink as a temporary
“escape” from stress or problems,
+ Addiction—some people drink because they are addicted to
alcohol and cannot stop.
Reduce Health Risks
by following Biblical principles
"Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is
deceived thereby is not wise.” —Pron 20:1
+ "Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of
For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty
sh:
and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.”
—Prov. 28:20-21
"Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions?
who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who
hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they
that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine
when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it
moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and
stingeth like an adder —Prov. 28:29-32
73 Alcohol and Health
261 + Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they
| may follow strong drink; that continwe until night, till wine
| inflame them? Isa. 5:10
* "But they also have erzed through wine, and through stron;
drink are out of the way;. .. they err in vision, they stumbl
in Judgmen: —Isa. 28:7
+ “And be not drunk with wie, wherein is excess; but be
filled with the Spivit Eph. 5:18
‘+ “For the time past of our life may sulli
5 to have wrought
the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in laseiviousness,
sts, excess of wine, revellings, hanquetings, and abort
rable idolaties.”
