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Drugs and Alcohol

Common Drugs

When we think of drugs, it is usually the illegal drugs we think of. The reality is that the most common drugs cause the majority of drug related problems.

Some common drugs are tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs, non-prescription medications and methamphetamine hydrochloride, which is also known as ‘ice’.  

  • Cigarette smoking can cause many health problems, even if not inhaled deeply. It is linked to causing cancer of the mouth, throat and lungs and other respiratory disorders.
  • Alcohol is a depressant which affects the central nervous system and reduces alertness. In Australia, there are more alcohol related deaths than illicit drug related deaths.
  • Misuse of prescription drugs is a major drug problem. Many prescription drugs are addictive.
  • Misuse of non-prescription medicines or over-the-counter medicines can be dangerous. Long term use of these can cause many health problems and disorders.
  • Marijuana contains the chemical TCH which gives a person the feeling of being ‘high’. It alters mood and affects concentration. Long term use can cause physical and mental health problems.
  • Ice is a stimulant which speeds up the central nervous system. It is more potent than other forms of amphetamines. Tolerance and dependency on ice can develop quickly so that greater doses are needed to achieve the desired effect.

Less Common Drugs

Less common drugs are heroin, ecstasy and amphetamines. Amphetamines are also known as ‘speed or ‘goey’.

  • Amphetamines are stimulants which speed up the central nervous system. Some effects are sweating, dizziness, anxiety, aggressiveness, psychosis and death.
  • Ecstasy is a manufactured drug which speeds up the central nervous system and its effects can vary. Some effects are insomnia, depression, hallucinations, convulsions, psychosis and death.
  • Heroin is a depressant which slows down the central nervous system. It has varying effects on each person. Some effects are sleepiness, nausea, vomiting and constipation. Long term use has more serious effects including overdose.

Drug abuse causes significant cost not only to individuals and their families, but also to the community. These problems include transmission of diseases, overdoses, mental health and crime. Contact the Alcohol and Drug Service on 02 9361 8000 or 1800 422 599 for more information.

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