Drug use
Definition of Drug
A drug is any substance (except food or water) that, when taken into the body, alters its physical or psychological function.
Categories of Drugs
- Legal Drugs – Approved by law (e.g., alcohol, caffeine, prescribed medicines).
- Illegal Drugs – Banned by law (e.g., cocaine, heroin, cannabis).
- Prescription Drugs – Require a doctor’s prescription (e.g., antibiotics, antidepressants).
- Non-Prescription (Over-the-Counter, OTC) Drugs – Can be bought without a prescription (e.g., paracetamol, cough syrup).
- Stimulants – Increase alertness (e.g., caffeine, cocaine).
- Depressants – Slow down the nervous system (e.g., alcohol, sleeping pills).
- Hallucinogens – Alter perception (e.g., LSD, cannabis in high doses).
- Opioids – Pain relief (e.g., morphine, heroin).
Prescription vs. Non-Prescription Drugs
| Prescription Drugs |
Non-Prescription (OTC) Drugs |
| Require a doctor’s |
prescription Can be bought freely |
| Used for serious conditions (e.g., infections, chronic pain). |
Used for mild ailments (e.g., headache, cold). |
| Examples: Antibiotics, insulin, antidepressants |
Examples: Paracetamol, ibuprofen, cough syrup |
| Misuse can lead to addiction or overdose |
Misuse can still be harmful (e.g., liver damage from excess paracetamol). |
Consequences of Drug Misuse/Abuse
- Liver and kidney damage
- Brain damage
- Hallucinations
- Aggression and violence
- Mental illness (like depression or psychosis)
- Addiction and death
Prevention of Drug Abuse
- Schools and parents should teach dangers of drugs.
- Avoid Peer Pressure – Say NO to friends who encourage drug use.
- Healthy Alternatives – Sports, music, and hobbies keep the mind busy.
- Governments should punish drug traffickers.
- Rehabilitation – Help addicts recover through medical and counseling support.
