Drug abuse is the use of illegal or prescription drugs for non-medical purposes. People may take drugs to numb emotions, calm themselves after an argument, or forget about problems.

Over time, some people develop a tolerance to drugs and require higher doses to feel the same effects. Others experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug.

Adolescence

Adolescence is a critical period of life for many teens. While most adolescents who use drugs don’t become drug abusers or addicts, even occasional or moderate substance use can negatively impact their health and wellbeing. This is especially true if the teen uses alcohol or illegal drugs.

A teen’s developing brain is particularly vulnerable to the effects of drugs. In fact, research shows that adolescent drug exposure can affect ongoing neurodevelopment, including alterations to gray and white-matter brain structures and decreased performance on tests of impulse control, attention span and memory.

Parents can help their children avoid drugs and alcohol by focusing on healthy family relationships, encouraging positive behaviors and by being watchful of warning signs. These include dramatic changes in friends, requests for money, changes in school performance and unexplained absences from home or work. The CDC also recommends talking to your kids about the dangers of drug abuse, as well as getting them involved in volunteer activities, sports or clubs.

Prescription Drugs

Medications, such as drugs and herbal remedies, can be safe and effective when they are taken correctly. But when they are misused, or taken in a different way from how they were prescribed by a doctor, they can cause problems. This can include addiction and other health risks.

Prescription drug abuse is one of the fastest-growing drug problems in the country, especially among teens. It includes taking prescription medication without a doctor's supervision, using it for nonmedical reasons or at higher doses than prescribed, or combining it with alcohol or other medications or illegal drugs.

Common types of prescription drugs abused are painkillers (opiate analgesics) such as oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin) and meperidine (Demerol); central nervous system depressants, such as pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal), diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax); and stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall). Taking these in large amounts can cause breathing to slow or stop, resulting in coma and death. A combination of these can also raise the body's temperature to dangerous levels and can lead to heart attack.

Alcohol

Alcohol can have a profound effect on a person’s health and well-being. It can lower inhibitions, causing people to make risky decisions that can lead to accidents, injury and death. It can also cause damage to vital organs such as the heart, liver and brain.

In addition, drinking alcohol can negatively impact a person’s relationship with family and friends. Poor decision-making while under the influence can also lead to problems at work and school. Consistent drug and alcohol use can also interfere with a student’s ability to learn, and can result in academic failure and drop-out rates.

It is important for people who are experiencing problems with alcohol to seek treatment for their addiction. Treatment options can include outpatient counseling, residential or hospital inpatient programs and peer support groups. The Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration provides a database that can help you find treatment options in your area. You can also contact help lines and hotlines listed on the internet and in the phone book.

Marijuana

Marijuana, also called cannabis, is a plant that contains the mind-altering chemical tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). When you smoke marijuana, it enters your bloodstream and binds to cannabinoid receptors in your brain. This triggers a variety of effects, including changes in your memory, coordination, and sensory perception.

Addiction to marijuana can lead to trouble at school, work, and in relationships. Heavy users experience financial problems because they must spend money on buying and using the drug. They may lose a job because of missed days, accidents, and workers’ compensation claims related to their drug use.

People with addictions to marijuana can get treatment for the drug. Like other addictions, there are cognitive behavioral therapy programs and medications that can treat the addiction. There are also inpatient and residential drug rehab programs that offer help to overcome a dependence on marijuana. They can include counseling and motivational enhancement therapy. In addition, they can offer group or individual therapy to support you in your recovery.