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Introduction to Drugs. Drugs in America. Is there a problem? National Drug Control Strategy Plan to decrease drug use and availability in half in 10 yrs. Definitions. Drug Mind and behavior changing substance
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Drugs in America • Is there a problem? • National Drug Control Strategy • Plan to decrease drug use and availability in half in 10 yrs.
Definitions • Drug • Mind and behavior changing substance • Any substance that changes the body’s ability to function or the structure of an organism • Changes the ways a person thinks, feels, and acts • Can be: • Legal • Illegal
Definitions cont. • Medicines • A drug substance use to diagnose, prevent, cure, or treat a disease or illness • Or to relieve pain • Types: • Over the Counter (OTC) • Prescription • Often used wrongfully
Psychoactive Drugs • Mind altering • Classifications • CNS depressant – alcohol, barbituates, tranqs. • CNS stimulant – caffeine, cocaine, nicotine • Limbic center depressant – antidepressants • Psychedelic/Hallucinogenic – LSD, marijuana • Narcotic – pain medications • Controlled Substances Act (1970) • Classification of mind altering drugs
More Definitions • Drug use – drug taking behavior • Drug misuse – inappropriate use of OTC or prescription drugs • Drug abuse – • Use of any illegal drug or uses a legal drug in a way that is detrimental to health • Continuous use of a mind-changing chemical substance for non-medical reasons
Drug Problems are People Problems • Affects all people • Health related consequences • Delay seeking medical attention • Don’t use other problem-solving techniques • Toxic reaction • Panic / Flashback • Dependence