When we think of psychoactive drugs, substances (also known as ecstasy) often come to mind. But what are the risks associated with using psychoactive drugs in the short and long term? In the article”Risky Business: The Risks of Using Psychoactive Drugs,” we will explore the potential dangers of taking psychoactive substances such as MDMA and why it is essential to be aware of the risks before drug use.
Short-Term Effects
Using psychoactive drugs comes with a range of potential short-term effects. Depending on the drug being used, users can experience euphoria, an altered perception of time and reality, increased energy and focus, and decreased inhibitions. While these effects are often sought after by recreational users, they can be dangerous and lead to accidents, bad decisions, and physical harm. Some drugs may also cause temporary confusion, paranoia, hallucinations, delusions, agitation, and violence.
For those who use psychoactive drugs medicinally, there may be additional risks. For example, someone taking a sedative or sleeping pill may feel drowsy, and experience decreased mental alertness and physical coordination, which can impair the ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. The physical effects of psychoactive drugs also vary significantly based on dosage and the person’s body chemistry, making it difficult to know how a person will respond when taking them.
Addiction
One of the significant risks associated with using psychoactive drugs is addiction. When someone uses psychoactive drugs, they can become dependent on them to achieve the desired effects. As their dependence grows, they may find it difficult to control their drug use and continue taking it in larger amounts or more frequently than initially intended. This pattern of misuse can lead to physical and psychological dependence, resulting in a substance use disorder known as addiction.
Signs of addiction include taking the drug in larger amounts or for more extended periods than intended, a strong desire to use the drug, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop the use of the drug, cravings for the drug, spending excessive amounts of time and energy obtaining and using the drug, neglecting other activities and obligations, developing tolerance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped, and continuing to use despite adverse consequences.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to psychoactive drugs, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Treatment for substance use disorders can involve medication-assisted therapy, individual counseling, group therapy, and support groups. There are also many self-help resources available. It is possible to overcome addiction with the proper support.
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Overdose
When taking psychoactive drugs, one of the most dangerous risks is overdosing. When a person overdoses on a psychoactive drug, they may experience extreme confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, coma, and even death. An overdose occurs when someone takes too much of the drug or combines it with other drugs or alcohol. The risk of an overdose is even greater if a person has a substance use disorder, is taking multiple substances at once, or has a pre-existing mental health condition.
It’s important to note that even individuals who do not have a substance use disorder can still be at risk for an overdose. When taking any psychoactive drug, it is essential to follow the directions of your doctor or healthcare provider and any warning labels on the medication. It is also important to remember that each drug has different potential side effects and dangers, so it is essential to be aware of these risks before taking any psychoactive drug. For example, some common side effects of antidepressant medications include nausea, insomnia, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, and weight gain.
Long-Term
Long-term use of certain drugs can lead to addiction, tolerance, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms such as depression, insomnia, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremors, and restlessness. Taking certain psychoactive drugs while pregnant or nursing can result in severe birth defects in newborns. Some prescription medications, such as benzodiazepines, interact dangerously with other medications, alcohol, and illicit drugs. Therefore, you must always disclose all medications (prescription and nonprescription) you are currently taking before you begin any new prescription treatment.
Withdrawal
When a person who is using psychoactive drugs regularly suddenly stops using them, they can experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms depend on the drug type and the user’s duration and intensity. Still, they can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, sweating, shaking, tremors, insomnia, depression, and anxiety. In severe cases, withdrawal from certain drugs can even lead to seizures or death.
When quitting cold turkey drugs, it is essential to seek medical supervision if possible, as this can help prevent potentially serious side effects. Gradual tapering down from a drug use habit with a doctor’s help is often safer and can be more effective at reducing withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, some medications are available to help reduce withdrawal symptoms, and various therapies help people manage their cravings and develop better coping skills.
It is also important to note that although physical withdrawal symptoms can become less intense over time, psychological withdrawal symptoms such as depression and cravings can last much longer. Finding support through therapy, support groups, and self-help resources can be essential to successfully recovering from a psychoactive drug use habit.