Health and Drug Economy Article Summary

Health & Drug Economy Article Summary
What are the effects of drug abuse?
Abstract
The effects of drug abuse depend on the type of drug, any other substances that a person is
using, and their health history. Drug misuse, abuse, and addiction can all lead to both short-
term and long-term health effects.
Short Term Effects
Drugs are chemical compounds that affect the mind and body. The exact effects vary among
individuals and also depend on the drug, dosage, and delivery method.
For instance, consuming one or two servings of alcohol can lead to mild intoxication. A
person may feel relaxed, uninhibited, or sleepy. Nicotine from cigarettes and other tobacco
products raises blood pressure and increases alertness. Using a prescription opioid as a
doctor has instructed helps relieve moderate-to-severe pain, but opioids can also cause
drowsiness, shallow breathing, and constipation.
Abusing a drug, or misusing a prescription medication, can produce other short-term

effects, such as: changes in appetite, sleeplessness or insomnia, increased heart rate, slurred
speech, changes in cognitive ability, a temporary sense of euphoria, and loss of
coordination.
Drug abuse can affect aspects of a person’s life beyond their physical health, such as: an
inability to cease using a drug, relationship problems, poor work or academic performance,
difficulty maintaining personal hygiene, noticeable changes in appearance, such as extreme
weight loss, increased impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors, loss of interest in formerly
enjoyable activities.
Long-term effects
Drug abuse, especially over an extended period, can have numerous long-term
psychological effects such as: depression, anxiety, panic disorders, increased aggression,
paranoia, & hallucinations
The long-term physical effects of drug use vary depending on the type of drug and the
duration of use and it can cause some health conditions like:
Cardiovascular disease- Stimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamines, can damage
the heart and blood vessels. The long-term use of these drugs can lead to coronary artery
disease, arrhythmia, and heart attack.
Respiratory problems- Drugs that people smoke or inhale can damage the respiratory
system and lead to chronic respiratory infections and diseases. By depressing a person’s
respiration, these drugs can lead to slow breathing or heavy snoring.
Kidney damage- The kidneys filter excess minerals and waste products from the blood.
Heroin, ketamine, and synthetic cannabinoids can cause kidney damage or kidney failure.
Liver disease- Chronic drug and alcohol use can damage the liver cells, leading to
inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure.
Treatment
Anyone providing drug addiction treatment should tailor it to suit a person’s individual
needs to ensure that it is effective.
Treatment may involve some of the following components:
 Behavioral therapy, which helps people build positive coping strategies and develop
problem-solving skills.
 Group therapy, which gives people the chance to acknowledge, share, and work
through the psychological aspects of recovery with a group of peers under
professional guidance.
 Medications to help minimize withdrawal symptoms.
 Additional medical care, which may include vocational training and other resources
that address problems associated with chronic drug abuse, such as mental health
conditions, unemployment, and medical conditions.
Conclusion
Drug abuse can affect several aspects of a person’s physical and psychological
health. Certain drugs can lead to drowsiness and slow breathing, while others may cause
insomnia, paranoia, or hallucinations. Chronic drug use is associated with cardiovascular,
kidney, and liver disease. In addition to its physical effects, drug abuse can adversely affect a
person’s relationships, home and work life, and mental health. Care providers should tailor
treatment to a person’s needs. Community-based organizations and state-funded treatment
programs usually involve a combination of behavioral therapy, group therapy, and
medication.
Reference
What are the effects of drug abuse? Medically Reviewed BY: DR. Sirisha Yellayi, Written BY:
Jamie Eske On June 17, 2020

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Health & Drug Economy Article Summary

What are the effects of drug abuse?

Short Term Effects

Abusing a drug, or misusing a prescription medication, can produce other short-term

Treatment may involve some of the following components:

 Medications to help minimize withdrawal symptoms.

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