Drugs of abuse
Drugs of Abuse
Drugs of abuse (/drʌgz əv əˈbjuːz/), also known as recreational drugs or substance abuse, refer to the use of certain chemicals for their pleasurable effects on the central nervous system. These substances can lead to physical and psychological dependence, and their misuse can cause serious health problems.
Etymology
The term "drug abuse" originates from the word "drug", which is derived from the Old French "drogue", possibly from Middle Dutch "droge vat" (dry barrel), referring to medicinal substances, and the term "abuse", derived from the Latin "abusus", meaning "misuse".
Types of Drugs of Abuse
There are several types of drugs that are commonly abused. These include:
- Alcohol (/ˈælkəhɔːl/): A psychoactive substance that is the active ingredient in drinks such as beer, wine, and distilled spirits (hard liquor).
- Cannabis (/ˈkænəbɪs/): A psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used for medical or recreational purposes.
- Cocaine (/koʊˈkeɪn/): A strong stimulant most frequently used as a recreational drug for its euphoric effects.
- Heroin (/ˈhɛroʊɪn/): An opioid most commonly used as a recreational drug for its euphoric effects.
- Methamphetamine (/ˌmɛθæmˈfɛtəmiːn/): A potent central nervous system stimulant that is mainly used as a recreational drug.
- Prescription drugs: Medications that are legally available through a doctor's prescription but may be misused for their psychoactive effects.
Related Terms
- Addiction (/əˈdɪkʃən/): A brain disorder characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequences.
- Withdrawal (/wɪðˈdrɔːəl/): The group of symptoms that occur upon the abrupt discontinuation or decrease in intake of medications or recreational drugs.
- Overdose (/ˈoʊvərdoʊs/): The ingestion or application of a drug or other substance in quantities greater than are recommended.
- Rehabilitation (/rɪˌhæbɪlɪˈteɪʃən/): The process of helping an individual achieve the highest level of function, independence, and quality of life possible after the misuse of drugs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drugs of abuse
- Wikipedia's article - Drugs of abuse
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