The worlds most addictive drugs, warning signs, symptoms and side effects
Posted by admin on August 7, 2008 in Drug Usage
There are many myths and rumors that surround the properties and use of illegal and prescription drugs. Many people hold false perceptions on these topics, rooted in the spread of this misinformation. We have set out to clarify some of the actual facts about these drugs, just how addictive they really are, and some of the extreme treatments necessary to overcome these addictions. Below are the 10 most addictive drugs on the market today.
1. Heroin
Processed from morphine, this drug usually appears as a white or brown powder. It’s chemical structure is very similar to that of a natural neurotransmitter, which allows it to fool receptors and send abnormal messages to the brain. It’s short-term effects include: a state of euphoria followed by wakeful and drowsy periods, blurred mental capacity, warming of the skin, heavy extremities, and dry mouth. Long-term effects include: addiction, collapsed veins, spontaneous abortion, possible contraction of infectious diseases, abscesses, liver disease, various types of pneumonia, and risk of a deadly overdose. Withdrawal symptoms are the most intense between 48 and 72 hours after last use and subside after about a week. These symptoms vary from drug craving, restlessness, and insomnia, to bone and muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes, and kicking movements. Medication treatment and behavioral therapy are available to overcome an addiction to heroin. Naloxone and naltrexone are both used to block the effects of morphine and heroin. Buprenorphine works in a similar manner, but has a lower risk of addiction and can be prescribed by a private doctor.
2. Cocaine
Snorted, sniffed, injected, or smoked, cocaine is extracted from the leaves of the coca plant. The name changes to crack when it is processed from hydrochloride and used for smoking. It can cause nerve cells to release abnormally large amounts of neurotransmitters, which in turn send amplified messages that disrupt communication channels in the brain. Upon use individuals experience a state of euphoria and increased energy followed by feelings of self-confidence and power. Health effects include: increased heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature, dilated pupils, respiratory failure, heart attack or stroke, seizures, odd or violent behavior. Behavioral therapy is available for recovering addicts. Depression and the inability to experience pleasure are the most common withdrawal symptoms.
3. Methamphetamine
3. Methamphetamine
Often referred to as crystal meth, speed, or ice, this bitter-tasting powder stimulates the central nervous system. It can be smoked, injected, snorted, or taken orally and causes a euphoric state similar to that of cocaine, but longer lasting. If smoked or injected the individual will feel an intense rush within five to ten seconds. This feeling can last anywhere from one to three minutes. Snorting or ingesting the drug produces a less intensified high. Side effects include: euphoria, increased physical activity, decreased appetite, insomnia, confusion, anxiety, aggression, and convulsions. Long-term users can experience schizophrenic symptoms such as: paranoia and hallucinations, repetitive behavior patterns, and delusions of parasites or insects on the skin. Withdrawal symptoms range from drug craving and depression to sleepiness and hunger. Medications for recovery are still being developed, but therapeutic programs are available. The Matrix Model is a sixteen week intervention program consisting of intensive group and individual therapy. Another program frequently used is Motivational Incentives for Enhancing Drug Abuse Recovery. This is an incentive based method program for methamphetamine users.
4. Nicotine
Nicotine is one of the most heavily used addictive drugs in the U.S. and comes from the tobacco plant, which uses it as a natural protection against insects. Nicotine has a similar chemical structure to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine allowing it to gain both direct and indirect control over more than 200 chemicals in the brain. Short-term effects include: an increase in blood pressure, the flow of blood from the heart, and the heart rate, as well as narrowing of the arteries. Tar found in cigarettes can increase the risk of lung cancer, emphysema, and other bronchial disorders, while carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen carried in the blood. Impatience, irritability, anxiety, depression, restlessness, increased appetite, and weight gain are all symptoms of withdrawal and usually occur around 72 hours after the last nicotine intake. A wide variety of programs and products are available to aid in the recovery process.
5. OxyContin (Oxycodone)
The oxycontin prescription drug is classified as an opioid and is given to cancer patients and those suffering from chronic pain. Long term use can lead to physical dependence and addiction. It is meant to be taken orally, but those who abuse it may dissolve it in water for injection or snort it. Users report a feeling of euphoria and comfort, however side effects include: dizziness, confusion, constipation, dry mouth, respitory depression, headache, and in some instances death. Upon withdrawal, symptoms such as: muscle and bone pain, restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, cold flashes, and involuntary leg movements may occur. Drug counseling is available to help with recovery.
6. Demerol (Meperidine)
Also classified as an opioid, Demerol is prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain. It is sold in syrup and tablet form and effects can be felt 10-15 minutes after ingestion, spanning anywhere from 2-14 hours. Those who become addicted may experience brief states of euphoria along with side effects such as: nausea and vomiting, circulatory and respiratory depression, weakness, headache, depression, and dizziness. Cold, clammy, bluish discoloration of the skin, a coma like state, weak muscles, and labored breathing are all signs of an overdose. Withdrawal symptoms include: severe anxiety, insomnia, profuse sweating, muscle spasms, and cold flashes. Drug counseling is available for recovery.
7. Vicodin (Hydrocodone)
Yet another member of the opioid group, vicodin is used for moderate to severe pain and is derived from the two naturally occurring opiates, codeine and thebaine. Users can become physically dependent and addicted and experience states of euphoria as well as side effects including: dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, and constipation. Labored breathing, a coma like state, cold, clammy skin, slow heartbeat, circulatory collapse, or cardiac arrest are all indicators of an overdose. Withdrawal symptoms include: vomiting and diarrhea, cold flashes, insomnia, restlessness, muscle and bone pain, and involuntary leg movements. Drug counseling is available for dealing with recovery.
8. Valium (Diazepam)
This prescription drug is categorized as a central nervous system depressant and is usually prescribed to treat anxiety, extreme stress, and panic attacks. It works by producing an overall calming effect on the body. Side effects include: drowsiness, impaired motor functions and balance, dizziness, fatigue, and depression. Overdosing results in: mental confusion, difficulty staying awake, loss of balance, and coma. Users can become physically dependent and addicted. Withdrawal symptoms are usually minimal at first, but increase in severity over the first five to nine days after stopping the drug. Upon discontinuing use, users can expect to experience: anxiety, depression, confusion, muscle cramping, vomiting, and nausea. Counseling is available.
9. Xanax (Alprazolam)
Also a central nervous system depressant, Xanax is prescribed for anxiety and stress as well. Producing a calming and drowsy effect on the body, it is just as addictive as Valium and has similar side effects such as impaired mental alertness and physical coordination. Withdrawal symptoms are also similar, however, those experiencing withdrawals from Xanax have a much higher rate of panic attacks. They also experience abnormal sensitivity, muscle pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Counseling is available.
10. Ritalin (Methylphenidate)
10. Ritalin (Methylphenidate)
Ritalin is classified as a stimulant, enhancing and increasing attention, energy, alertness, and activity. It raises blood pressure and heart rate and is often prescribed to people diagnosed with ADHD. As a stimulant it works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Doctors start with a low dose and gradually increase it until a therapeutic effect is reached. Euphoric effects most often occur when stimulants are crushed and injected or snorted. Those who use Ritalin or any other stimulant repeatedly may begin to experience feelings of hostility and paranoia. Abusing Ritalin can lead to high body temperatures, irregular heartbeat, and compulsive use. Withdrawal symptoms include: abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, depression, and emotional anxiety. Counseling is available for help with the recovery process.
37 Comments on The worlds most addictive drugs, warning signs, symptoms and side effects
By rasluka on August 8, 2008 at 11:52 am
hmmm….how ironic, the majority of abused drugs are those sanctioned by governemtns, well i never!!!!
By MadCatter on August 8, 2008 at 7:34 pm
Fail.
By David on August 8, 2008 at 10:00 pm
You forgot Ambien, along with the desired effects of nicotine.
By Jimguru on August 8, 2008 at 10:40 pm
Of course, alcohol is very addictive and comes second only to tobacco in causing mortality and morbidity. Shoulda been in there…
By Matt on August 8, 2008 at 10:47 pm
Great, informative list. I expected to see Marijuana on this list based on all the propaganda the American government is pushing out, but as a responsible marijuana user I was very pleased by its absence. Maybe the world is finally waking up, eh?
My sole concern is the absence of alcohol. I acknowledge the fact that this list focuses on pill/powder/prescription drugs, but alcohol deserves a place here. Just my opinion, fantastic article!
By Jibblit on August 9, 2008 at 12:48 am
Alcohol needs to be on this list… somewhere.
By Jimguru on August 9, 2008 at 2:58 am
Everyone knows alcohol is a drug….right?
By Jimguru on August 9, 2008 at 3:07 am
Everyone knows alcohol is a drug…right?
By A. Sceptic on August 9, 2008 at 11:56 am
sophomoric
By EPSMokeweed on August 9, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Notice how Marijuana isn’t on the list? LEGALIZE IT!!!!!!!
By Javier (jtor420@gmail.com) on August 9, 2008 at 3:49 pm
As a teen, I tried every possible “get-high” drug you could think of. I had a terrible motorcycle accident, hurt my back , and was considered a chronic pain patient ever since. In my 20s, I used alcohol and weed to help with the pain as I did not have insurance. Ten years later, I became a raging alcoholic. From then on, I chose to use Heroin on a permanent and daily basis. It took 35 yrs., numerous stints in jail, 2 times in prison, homelessness, helplessness,loss of friends,family,fatherhood,manhood and almost my mind to stop. The irony of my story is, I am taking 300 mgs. of Morphine Sulfate daily and have been for the last 8 yrs. My connection wears a white smock instead of a bandana, my place to “pick-up” is at a pharmacy instead of a street corner, and I finance my habit legally instead of stealing. I am still an addict. I will still get very sick if I suddenly stop. At the end of the day, not a whole hell of a lot has changed.
By David B. Fisher on August 10, 2008 at 10:59 am
I’ve ‘been there, done that’ with respect to your bloddy ‘Top Ten’ drugs - minus meth. However I am very annoyed and disappointed with lists like this because they tell us NOTHING we don’t know and serve NO positive purpose - Especially when you ignore the true #1 culprit Alcohol. Yes, yes I know, you’re splitting hairs and saying that Heroin will ‘addict’ you physically faster than Alcohol but that is really not the point. Cocaine is NOT physically addictive in the same was as Opioids. Period. There are factors which make you *want* more - the neurotransmitter deficit and all that - but there is nothing like the physical ‘hook’ that Opioids have. Nicotine, according to my latest reading is classified as more addictive than Heroin, i.e. quicker to entrap an addictive gene bearer.
And that leads me to Addiction as a topic separate and apart from the maudlin list of drugs. Some people are MUCH more likely to become addicted than others as they are genetically predisposed to addiction. There are Cocaine users - a substantial percentage who can stop a daily habit with nothing more than garden variety repercussions. So the listing of these drugs is very misleading and troubling to me, especially when the list omits Alcohol.
When you go to Rehab one of the first things you’ll notice is that the people who look the most devastated - from a purely subjective pov - are the Alcoholics (apart from Meth). They look 10 to 20 years older than their biological age.
So my plea is to ditch this misleading, subjective and frankly wrong information.
The Drug War is a disaster. It must be stopped. It is racist, fascist, moralistic and wrong.
What you’re doing is wrong too.
David
By Erick on August 10, 2008 at 3:03 pm
No Marijuana? What a shocker…
By chrt on August 10, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Extended information …. i think that most of the information
(simptoms and withdrawal simptoms) are accurate….
Every abuse of chemicals - inproper intake and overdosing leeds to addiction .
By Crystal Meth Information on August 10, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Let us show you a way to help you to a drug-free life, a way that can tame cravings, stabilize moods, help a body that’s been damaged by drugs, clear the “mental fog” during the day and help you sleep soundly at night.
By My Leg Pain site on August 10, 2008 at 10:43 pm
My Leg Pain site…
I have constant pain on my left leg..tests showed no blood clots…..
By My Leg Muscle Pain site on August 10, 2008 at 11:49 pm
My Leg Muscle Pain site…
There can be many caquses of leg cramps…just eliminate the possibility of a blood clot….
By TJ on August 11, 2008 at 2:41 pm
It is interesting to me that of these ten drugs, seven are legal to have (six need prescription) in the US. Personally, I would argue that drugs like valium and ritalin are more addicting than hydrocodone, for the simple fact that hydrocodone is only available when combined with large doses of tylenol (acetaminophen). This “watering down” of vicodin has also probably resulted in oxcodone’s increased popularity amongst opiate addicts. I would guess that drugs like alchohol, other amphetemines (dexedrine, focalin), other opiates (morphine, methadone, hydromorphone, fentanyl), and some prescription sleep aids (ambien, lunesta) would also be runner ups on this list. My last comment, THANK YOU FOR NOT PUTTING MARIJUANA ON THIS LIST. Its amazing that some of the most addictive drugs on the planet are available legally with a prescription, while the relatively harmless and medicinally useful marijuana is still illegal. People are put away in jail for this, families are destroyed, and all the while drug companies keep raking in the money.
Thank you,
TJ
By saidomar on August 12, 2008 at 6:50 am
just curious….
so marijuana or THC isn’t considered an addictive drug?
By Nick on August 12, 2008 at 11:30 am
i love it that marijuana is not mentioned once in this post, good job!
By tweek on August 12, 2008 at 11:44 am
let’s not forget the mushrooms, acid, and oxycotin.
By analeah on August 12, 2008 at 9:08 pm
most of these are prescription…
By VistaBay on August 20, 2008 at 11:37 am
[...] helpful and useful which help the users to great extent. You can get the warning signs such as cocaine addiction warning signs and meth warning signs, symptoms such as cocaine overdose symptoms, side affects and other [...]
By I Review You » Blog Archive » Save-the-World Post on August 20, 2008 at 7:50 pm
[...] this page, you can find descriptions of the main drugs and some other info on them, like symptoms of cocaine for instance. You could also look for the strange methamphetamine warning signs. It also mentions [...]
By Scotty on August 21, 2008 at 2:15 am
Now most of these things on the list are legal, but marijuana is not on the list and is illegal in most states. This government is corrupted.
By phunkyfunk on August 21, 2008 at 1:45 pm
bullshit. you failed to put alcohol on this list which should be near the top if not #1.And what’s that thing that most people can’t even start the day without? Oh yeah… coffee.
I also think that stumble upon should be on this list as the most destructive drug of all for it wastes my time on stupid, pointless, bullshit sites like this.
By idontneedyou on August 21, 2008 at 9:35 pm
I think it’s ridiculous that all of you potheads are rejoicing over marijuana not being on this list. Get off you’re asses and get a job already.
By Mark Alan on August 22, 2008 at 6:44 am
Hmmm.. all very interesting specially the bunch of you saying “I love it that marijuana is not mentioned once in this post,….”
I’m not sure if you have a particularly mild form of weed in the states but in South Africa the most affected and most troublesome repeat addicts in our rehabs seem to be the hard core dope smokers
My view comes from days in family therapy sessions attempting to help others - my wife was in for 12 yrs of heroin addiction – (and anything else she could get her hands on) I was the enabler and dabbler in drugs - without the addictive gene - luckily I guess
She’s now 120 days clean - but it’s still rough out here ….
But back to the marijuana comments - it seems to do the most permanent damage to the brain and the motivation and this is seen by the number of relapses and repeats of the rehab visits….
I’ve also personally found that dope fucks me up like nothing else does – comments?
By anonymous on August 22, 2008 at 8:36 am
stupid. alcohol is more addictive & causes more harm than most of these
By Kyle on August 22, 2008 at 12:51 pm
I was on Ritalin from first to eleventh grade (over 8 years). I stopped using it on my own terms, though my mother and doctor insisted I kept taking it. I was so numb and quite. My childhood was in pill form. I have very vague memories of this time and now as an adult, I feel Ritalin has left me with a empty feeling. I have troubles going about my day now at 22 years old. Stomach pains nightly to which I can not eat right or on any normal schedule, comes with weakness and nausea. Not to mention an unsocial, paranoid and depressed feeling consistently. Every doctor I have seen just wants me to try more drugs. I now have no faith in big pharma and refuse to take anymore drugs. So in result I must deal with this on my own terms.
Its not fair to put children on such a strong life altering. Please if there are any parents out there who have children on Ritalin, talk to them and see how THEY feel. Just because they are a bit easier to handle does not mean this drug makes them happy. They may also end up having a life like mine.
If anyone has any questions or information that could help me please feel free to email me. Brothisrocks@yahoo.com
By Sysyphus on August 22, 2008 at 2:46 pm
I refuse to believe this, there is no way that oxycontin is less addictive than nicotine, that is pure bullshit.
By ricci on August 22, 2008 at 8:55 pm
OK, we are all on govt. drugs. sleeping drug’s or what ever. what make’s them OK is if the Govt is in control . Shit happens, stand up and make A group of people be heard. All or most drugs have been used on us by sining a waver. Its happening today, take A look at all the info drugs. They have A cure for EVERY THING from taking a shit to penis shrinking. You are a human Rat, and you will get paid, if you partisipate. ALL DRUGS WERE LEGAL @ ONE TIME. THATS WHY IM’ DRUUUUNK’ BRING BACK PROABITION = RICH=me DON,T MESS WITH FREEDOM…..1=FREEDOM+!1000000000000000000000000000000000000. ps MIDDLE CLASS IS SHRINKIKING
By e on August 27, 2008 at 11:44 am
alcohol.
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