If you are suspicious that someone you know might be addicted to drugs look for certain signs and symptoms.The particular signs and symptoms of drug use and dependence vary depending on the type of drug.
Cannabis compounds: Signs and symptoms
Cannabis compounds are found in marijuana and hash. Signs and symptoms of use and dependence on these drugs include:
- A heightened sense of visual, auditory and taste perception
- Poor memory
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Red eyes
- Decreased coordination
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased appetite
- Slowed reaction time
- Paranoid thinking
Central nervous system depressants: Signs and symptoms
Barbiturates and benzodiazepines are examples of central nervous system depressants.
Signs and symptoms of use and dependence on these drugs include:
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination
- Memory impairment
- Confusion
- Slowed breathing and decreased blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Depression
Central nervous system stimulants: Signs and symptoms
This class of drugs includes amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine and methylphenidate (Ritalin). Signs and symptoms of use and dependence on these drugs include:
- Euphoria
- Decreased appetite
- Rapid speech
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Depression as the drug wears off
- Nasal congestion and damage to the mucous membrane of the nose in users who snort drugs
- Insomnia
- Weight loss
- Increased heart rate, blood pressure and temperature
- Paranoia
Designer drugs: Signs and symptoms
Synthetic compounds, such as Ecstasy, which has both amphetamine-like and hallucinogenic effects, are included in this category.
Signs and symptoms of using designer drugs vary depending on the drug. You might be able to tell that a family member or a friend is using or abusing a drug based on the physical and behavioral signs and symptoms associated with the drug.
For example, Ecstasy produces a mild hallucinogenic effect and a feeling of euphoria. It also causes an increased heart rate, overheating, high blood pressure, kidney and liver toxicity, and memory problems.
Hallucinogens: Signs and symptoms
Use of hallucinogens produces different signs and symptoms depending on the drug. The most common hallucinogens are LSD, phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine (special K), a so-called "club drug."
Signs and symptoms of LSD use include:
- Hallucinations
- Greatly impaired perception of reality, for example, interpreting input from one of your senses as another, such as hearing colors
- Permanent mental changes in perception
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Tremors
- Flashbacks, a re-experience of the hallucinations — even years later
Signs and symptoms of PCP use include:
- Hallucinations
- Euphoria
- Delusions
- Panic
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Aggressive, possibly violent behavior
Signs and symptoms of ketamine use include:
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Numbness
- Impaired motor function
- Loss of memory
Inhalants: Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of inhalant use vary depending on what substance is inhaled. Some commonly inhaled substances include glue, paint thinners, correction fluid, felt tip marker fluid, gasoline, cleaning fluids and household aerosol products.
When inhaled, these products can cause brief intoxication and a decreased feeling of inhibition. Long-term use may cause seizures and damage to the brain, liver and kidneys. Inhalant use can also cause death.
Opiates: Signs and symptoms
Opiates are narcotic, painkilling drugs produced naturally from opium or made synthetically. This class of drugs includes heroin, morphine, codeine, methadone and oxycodone (OxyContin).
Signs and symptoms of use and dependence on these drugs include:
- Reduced sense of pain
- Sedation
- Depression
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Slowed breathing
- Needle marks (if injecting drugs)
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