Drug Abuse and Dependence

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Drug Abuse and Dependence: Symptoms & Signs

OPIATES AND NARCOTICS:

Symptoms of use:

• needle marks on the skin in some cases (called "tracks")
• scars from skin abscesses
• rapid heart rate
• constricted pupils (pinpoint)
• relaxed and/or euphoric state ("nodding")
• coma, respiratory depression leading to coma and death in high doses

Symptoms of withdrawal:

• anxiety and difficulty sleeping
• sweating
• goose bumps (piloerection)
• runny nose (rhinorrhea)
• stomach cramps or diarrhea
• dilated pupils
• nausea and vomiting
• excessive sweating
• increase in blood pressure, pulse, and temperature

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEMSTIMULANTS

Symptoms of cocaine use:

• euphoria (exaggerated feeling of well-being)
• dilated pupils
• rapid heart rate
• restlessness and hyperactivity

Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal:

• fatigue and malaise
• depression
• vivid and unpleasant dreams

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DEPRESSANTS

Symptoms of alcohol use:

• slurred speech
• lack of coordination
• decreased attention span
• impaired judgment

Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal:

• anxiety
• tremors
• seizures
• increase in blood pressure, pulse, and temperature
• delirium

HALLUCINOGENS

Symptoms of LSD use:

• anxiety
• frightening hallucinations
• paranoid delusions
• blurred vision
• dilated pupils
• tremor