Amphetamines are stimulants that can be prescribed to treat ADHD. They come in pill or powder form and can be abused by taking them orally, injecting them, or smoking them ("ice"). Overuse can lead to psychosis, violent behavior, and overdose. Many are Schedule II stimulants in the US.
Barbiturates are CNS depressants with risks of addiction and overdose, causing euphoria to coma; some are medically used.
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug derived from coca leaves, primarily produced in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. Commonly abused through snorting, injection, or smoking, it causes intense euphoria, increased alertness, and excitation, followed by a crash characterized by exhaustion, sleep, and depression. Long-term use can lead to severe health issues and addiction.
Dangerous fake pills mimic prescriptions, may contain lethal fentanyl or meth, and are often sold online.
Opioid addiction and overdose are serious issues. Risks include misuse, addiction, and death. Protect yourself and others by talking about your concerns, reducing risk, and seeking help if needed.
Fentanyl exhibits tested by forensic labs increased by 65% from 2014 to 2015, indicating a significant expansion of the fentanyl market.
Fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs, reducing the risk of overdose. Three testing options are available: dissolving drugs in water, using crushed drugs in a plastic bag, or adding a small amount of drugs to a container with water.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is a major cause of fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the US. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) is often mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine and made into pills resembling prescription opioids. Fentanyl-laced drugs are deadly, and even small doses can be fatal. Recognizing overdose signs, such as constricted pupils, unconsciousness, or slow breathing, and administering naloxone promptly can save lives.
Hallucinogens are drugs that alter perception and mood. Common types include LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and MDMA (ecstasy). They can cause vivid hallucinations, altered thoughts, and increased heart rate. Some carry a high risk of overdose and death, especially when combined with other drugs or alcohol.
Recovery from opioid addiction is possible with treatment and support. Combining behavioral therapy and medication is the most effective approach. Medication options include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of each option.
Khat is an East African shrub with stimulant effects, abused by chewing leaves or via tea, paste, smoking, or as a food additive. Overdose can cause delusions, breathing issues, and heart problems. Chronic use may lead to violence, depression, and teeth staining. Similar to cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine, Khat is a Schedule I and IV controlled substance in the US.
Opioid overdose is a major public health issue and is caused by various factors, including misuse, illicit opioid use, and dosage errors. It is crucial to encourage providers and individuals at risk to learn about preventing and managing overdose. Access to treatment for opioid misuse and addiction should be ensured, along with expanding access to naloxone, an overdose reversal drug.
Opioid crisis involves prescription pain relievers and illegal drugs like heroin. Opioid overdose is a leading cause of accidental deaths in the US. Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are FDA-approved medications to treat opioid addiction.
Anabolic steroids mimic testosterone, aiding muscle growth; misused for performance/appearance enhancement, potentially causing severe health risks.
Depressants can induce sleep, relieve anxiety but may cause dependence and withdrawal; some are misused illegally.
MDMA (Ecstasy) is a synthetic drug with stimulant and hallucinogenic effects. Commonly abused in tablet form, it causes euphoria, heightened senses, and distorted perception. Overdose can lead to hyperthermia, organ failure, and death. Mixing with other substances increases risks. US classifies it as Schedule I, indicating high abuse potential and no accepted medical use.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid approved for use as an analgesic & anesthetic. It's 100x more potent than morphine, has many street names & forms of abuse, often sold with heroin or counterfeit pills. Illicit fentanyl overdose can lead to stupor, pinpoint pupils and death; it is Schedule II in the CSA 1970.
DEA guide on drugs of abuse covering opioids, hallucinogens, steroids, cannabinoids & more; includes substance facts and legal penalties.