What is the health risks associated with continued drug misuse? Free essay! Download now
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What is the health risks associated with continued drug misuse?
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What is the health risks associated with continued drug misuse?Preview
What is the health risks associated with continued drug misuse?
Drug 'misuse' is the taking of a drug in damaging quantities or in quantities other than the prescribed dosage, or the use of an illegal drug.
A drug is any substance that changes the way the mind and bodywork. Some drugs, such as alcohol are legal while others - such as heroin, ecstasy, cannabis, cocaine and LSD - are illegal.
In recent decades there has been an increase in the use of illegal drugs. This is particularly among young people. There are approximately 2000 people who die from drug misuse a year. There are three classes of controlled drugs that are classified in the misuse of drugs act and each of these has its own set of guideline for penalty.
Class A – heroin, crack, LSD, MDMA, cocaine, ecstasy, magic mushrooms, and amphetamine (if prepared for injection)
Class B – cannabis, amphetamine (speed)
Class C – supply of anabolic steroids and benzodiazepines.
Most teenagers come into contact with drugs and know where they can be obtained. Research shows that almost a third of 15-year-olds have tried an illegal drug at some point, usually cannabis. Thankfully, most teenagers who experiment with ‘soft’ drugs (such as cannabis) do not move onto hard drugs (such as heroin) or become addicted. What’s more, only a few young people use illegal drugs regularly. The reasons young people take drugs are often similar to the reasons adults drink and smoke. They’re associated with relaxing with friends, listening to music or watching a video. In addition: Teenagers like to experiment: some will try drugs just because they are curious and want to find out what the effects are. They may experiment with a range of drugs for a short time and then stop. They haven’t become ‘addicted’ or dependent, nor have they suffered any lasting effects. The influence of peers is huge, so it may be easier for teenagers to have a go than to say no and look “uncool”. Teenagers like to rebel and kick out against parents’ rules. Independence is part of growing up. Others want the thrill risk-taking brings. Teenagers like to have a good time and may enjoy the effects that drugs bring. Many illegal drugs are as cheap, or cheaper than alcohol. ‘Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug, accounting for up to 80% of illegal drug use.’ (BUPA)
Cannabis may cause feelings of dizziness or sickness and it can make the mouth, tongue and lips feel dry. In large or repeated doses, cannabis may cause panic or paranoia. Cannabis contains a large amount of tar (about three times the amount found in a standard cigarette). This means it is very bad for people with respiratory problems such ...
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