Drugs of Abuse - Substance Use Disorders

Drugs of Abuse

·        If therapeutic index is wide, then it‟s good for addiction: good effect but few side effects 

·        IV drugs: opiates, speed, and benzodiazepines. Health risks include infection and non-infectious sequalae

·        Marijuana

·        Ecstasy – amphetamine (party scene)

·        Fantasy – GHBA

·        Solvents: younger, failing at school, worried parents, neurological impairment

·        Tobacco 

Dependence resulting from various drugs

Cannabis/Marijuana

·        Psycho active ingredient is D9 tetrahydrocannabinol (D9 THC)

·        Receptor targets in the CNS = CB1, in PNS = CB2

·        Synthetic cannabinoid drugs used therapeutically for appetite stimulation (eg in cancer), anticonvulsant/antispastic, analgesic

·        Effects:

o   Minimal for occasional use, greater for longer-term heavy use

o   Respiratory system: hot irritating smoke ® all the effects of cigarette smoke (inflammation, ­mucus, thickened basement membrane, squamous cell metaplasia, destruction of cilia)

o   CNS: enhanced feelings of well being, disputed dose-dependent effects – reduction in energy, drive and motivation, psychosis, ¯learning and attention, dependence with associated social and psychological dysfunction, acute adverse reactions (eg anxiety/panic attacks)