Drugs and Their Affect on Society Positive effects

Drugs and Their Affect on Society – Positive effects of drugs – Negative effects of drugs – Why people abuse drugs – How to avoid the misuse of drugs

Benefits of drugs • Drugs can be used to fight and cure disease. • Some drugs are used as painkillers. • Drugs can be used to overcome other physical ailments a person may have.

Negative drugs: Cocaine – What is it? Cocaine is an illegal drug that falls under the classification of stimulants. It comes from the coca plant which grows in many areas of South America.

Cocaine – What effects does it have on the body? Cocaine speeds up the brain and nervous system. Heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse all go up. It can cause people to see things. It can also cause heart attacks, strokes and seizures. Insomnia is a common effect. – It gives the user a feeling of well-being and strength. – It may make a person feel happy and excited.

Cocaine Is it addicting? Cocaine users can become very dependent on the drug. Persons may feel physical and mental withdrawal symptoms. Does it have any positive uses? – Cocaine is illegal, but it has been used to numb the eye before surgery.

Cocaine – What are some other names it is called? Coke, snow, toot, white lady, blow – How is it taken? It is sniffed or snorted through the nose. It can be injected. If it is smoked it is called freebasing. – What form does it come in? White crystals or powder. It is odorless

Why do people abuse drugs? • • • They don’t follow doctors directions. They have a low self esteem. They become addicted and then can’t stop. They are influenced by friends. They think, ‘nothing will happen. ’

Positive Decision Making How to keep myself safe and healthy?

What Are Healthy Decisions? Get involved in activities. Participation in sports. Play in a band or orchestra. Choose friends that are drug free. Be honest with yourself and others. Learn how to say “no. ” Have a trusted adult you can talk to. Don’t drink and drive. Be aware of consequences and accept them.

Resources • Microsoft Encarta 2001, Malcolm, Coe, Oxford Scientific films. Coca Plant • www. healthfinder. gov • http: //substanceabuse. about. com/cs/cocaine/ • Merki, Mary Bronson, Teen Health. Pgs 461 -462. Glencoe/Mc. Graw-Hill 1999