NCJ Number
162493
Date Published
1995
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This chapter provides pharmacologic information on the following psychoactive substances: nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, phencyclidine (PCP), and heroin.
Abstract
Each of these substances exerts a distinctive effect on the user's central nervous system as well as on other systems of physiologic function. Nicotine use, associated with both immediate reinforcing effects and long-term deleterious effects, is considered the most widespread preventable cause of death in the United States. Alcohol, the most widely used drugs among adolescents, causes dependency in an estimated 13 percent of the general population. Marijuana, the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States, has been used by an estimated 41 percent of high school seniors. Cocaine, which produces euphoric sensations as well as cardiovascular damage and neuromuscular impairment in neonates, has been used by an estimated 20 million people in the United States. PCP, originally developed as an animal anesthetic, produces depressant hallucinogenic, and analgesic effects as well as unpredictable deaths and violence. Heroin, a highly addictive agent that can have debilitating effects on physiologic functioning, has risen dramatically in use among adults since the 1960's. Clinicians should be aware of the unique qualities of each of the aforementioned substances, and they should also promote preventive behavior by discussing these issues with patients. Legal substances, such as nicotine and alcohol, that are known to have addictive and detrimental effects should not be ignored, because these agents may be just as powerful physiologically as illicit substances. In addition, clinicians should be familiar with the typical withdrawal symptoms associated with these agents, as well as with recommended forms of managing withdrawal. 69 references