1. Legal Drugs and their Effects
Drugs that can be obtained from grocery stores or pharmacies

2. Tobacco Several forms ALL forms contain nicotine Cigarettes Cigars
Snuff
Pipes
Chewing Tobacco
ALL forms contain nicotine

3. Effects
Effects the blood vessels and causes the heart and lungs to work harder to get oxygen
Nicotine is a poison that may cause lightheadedness and nausea
Tar collects in the lungs and causes a dark sludge
Nicotine is addictive and prolonged use can lead to cancer

4. Alcohol 70% of the US population uses alcohol on a regular basis
The most widely used and abused drug in our country
A Poison to the body

5. Alcohol causes: Reduced attention span Slow motor skills
Blurred vision
Reduced body temperature
Decreased sexual performance
Violent Behavior

6. Alcoholics Crave alcohol High tolerance Drink to excess
Physical addiction that causes withdrawl

7. Caffeine
A mild, legal stimulant found in or added to many foods and drinks
Americans consume about 5,000 tons of caffeine a year
It increases heart rate and makes you feel alert

8. Effects of Caffeine Sleeplessness Restlessness Irritability
Panic attacks
Linked to birth defects
Caffeine can be addictive and withdrawals include temporary depression, headaches and irritability

9. Prescription Drugs
Medications that are obtained through the written prescription of a licensed physician
Can be addictive but most physicians are careful not to overmedicate patients
Congress has passed the Controlled Substance Act that classifies drugs by how safe they are
Can be fatal if mixed with other drugs or taken without a doctor’s approval