1. Introduction to Drugs

2. Drugs in America Is there a problem? National Drug Control Strategy Plan to decrease drug use and availability in half in 10 yrs.

3. Definitions Drug Mind and behavior changing substance Any substance that changes the bodys ability to function or the structure of an organism Changes the ways a person thinks, feels, and acts Can be: Legal Illegal

4. Definitions cont. Medicines A drug substance use to diagnose, prevent, cure, or treat a disease or illness Or to relieve pain Types: Over the Counter (OTC) Prescription Often used wrongfully

5. Psychoactive Drugs Mind altering Classifications CNS depressant – alcohol, barbituates, tranqs. CNS stimulant – caffeine, cocaine, nicotine Limbic center depressant – antidepressants Psychedelic/Hallucinogenic – LSD, marijuana Narcotic – pain medications Controlled Substances Act (1970) Classification of mind altering drugs

6. More Definitions Drug use – drug taking behavior Drug misuse – inappropriate use of OTC or prescription drugs Drug abuse – Use of any illegal drug or uses a legal drug in a way that is detrimental to health Continuous use of a mind-changing chemical substance for non-medical reasons

7. Drug Problems are People Problems Affects all people Health related consequences Delay seeking medical attention Dont use other problem-solving techniques Toxic reaction Panic / Flashback Dependence

8. Are we winning the war on drugs?