Drugs

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  • RA Resources - Bulletin boards and posters available to RAs in our office.
image of marijuana

 

A drug is a chemical substance with the potential to alter the structure and function of a living organism.

Common Types of Drugs

Cannabinoids: causes slow thinking and reaction time, impaired balance, impaired memory and learning, and increased heart rate

  • Marijuana, Hashish

Depressants: causes reduced anxiety, lowered inhibitions, slowed pulse and breathing, fatigue, loss in memory, and impaired coordination

  • Alcohol, Valium, Xanax, Barbiturates, GHB, Methanqualone

Hallucinogens: causes altered states of perception and feeling, decreased ability to move, memory loss, flashbacks

  • LSD (acid), Mescaline, Psilocybin

Opioids: causes drowsiness, nausea, pain relief, confusion, sedation, unconsciousness, coma

  • Codeine, Heroin, Morphine, Opium

Stimulants: causes increased heart rate and blood pressure, feelings of exhilaration, increased alertness, weight loss, heart failure

  • Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Nicotine, Ritalin, Adderall

Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are falsely believed to be safer than illicit drugs. Misuse of these medications can cause serious health effects, addiction and death. Many people benefit from these drugs when used properly, but when abused they can become very addictive and dangerous.

Types of prescription drugs that are abused:

  • Opioids prescribed for pain relief
  • CNS depressants prescribed for anxiety or sleep problems
  • Stimulants prescribed for ADHD, sleep disorder narcolepsy, or obesity

The misuse of prescription drugs is a growing trend on most college campuses. 18.8% of UC students reported using prescription drugs not prescribed to them and the prescription medications abused most by UC students are stimulants and pain killers.

Drug and Addiction Resources