6 Most Dangerous Drugs
A drug is any substance that, once ingested, alters the body’s normal functioning. Physicians have used most of them for years to treat, manage and prevent illnesses. Certain drugs, however, do more harm than good when used.
Let us identify a few drugs that are deemed dangerous to the user based on the number of deaths and adverse side effects they are reported to cause
1. Methadone
Methadone is an opioid drug prescribed to people with Opioid Use Disorder (O.U.D). It acts on the mu-opioid receptors in the brain to reduce the opioid withdrawal symptoms one might encounter. However, administering this drug may result in some serious side effects, such as:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Lightheadedness
Prolonged use of methadone to treat O.U.D will lead to addiction, as it is an opioid. Methadone also increases the risks of respiratory depression, which might lead to death.
2. Oxycodone
Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic used as a painkiller. Cancer patients and people about to undergo surgery can take oxycodone, as it can alleviate acute pain. Someone can easily abuse the drug due to the euphoric feeling it delivers. Oxycodone is dangerous because an overdose can cause fatal side effects—It reduces blood pressure, which results in seizures or cardiac arrest.
3. Heroin
Heroin is an opioid derived from morphine. It is highly addictive. This is because once introduced into the body, it triggers receptors in the brain to produce dopamine that gives the user a “high.” The dopamine spike lasts only a few minutes, and the user craves more. Before long, they get addicted.
Heroin can be snorted, injected, swallowed, or inhaled, but injection is the most common intake method. Combining heroin with opioids such as fentanyl can disrupt receptors that regulate normal breathing. An overdose of heroin will lead to heart failure and, consequently, death.
4. Alcohol
The majority of the world’s population indulges in alcohol drinking, and this makes it one of the most abused drugs. It travels quickly into the user’s bloodstream and triggers the brain to produce dopamine, tricking one into thinking they are having a great time.
The downside is alcohol poses several negative effects to the user when consumed over a long period.
These side effects include:
- High blood pressure
- Weak immune system
- Liver cirrhosis
- Pancreatitis
5. Codeine
Codeine is used to suppress coughs and relieve mild-to-moderate pain. Mostly administered as a syrup, the drug’s primary side effects include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
It is not advised to get involved in activities that will require mental alertness while on codeine medication. Codeine use is habit-forming, and one can easily get addicted. It increases the release of dopamine hormone and gives the user a feel-good sensation. Long-term abuse of codeine may lead to:
- Kidney failure
- Loss of vision
- Amnesia
- Intestinal blockages
Take a Step Towards Recovery Today
Now that we have discussed some of the most dangerous drugs, you know what to expect from indulging. Are you struggling to quit substance abuse, or do you know someone who is? Contact America’s Rehab Campuses and book a session for you or your loved one. Congratulations as you take your first step toward sobriety!