Lecture Notes on Drugs and Their Effects

Introduction

• Officer Singera discusses the impact of drugs on the body.
• Distinction between legal and illegal drugs.

Legal Drugs

• Medicines

  • Prescribed by doctors, safe when used correctly.
  • Illegal to misuse or buy from unlicensed sellers.

• Tobacco, Alcohol, and Cannabis in Ontario

  • Legal for individuals over the age of 19.
  • Legal does not equal safe for health.
  • Illegal to supply these products to those under age.

Illegal Drugs

• Defined as drugs listed under the Controlled Substances Act.
• Risks:
  • Negative effects on mind and body.
  • Potential for overdose and death.
  • Illicit drugs may be laced, increasing overdose risk.

Drug Categories and Effects

• Over-the-Counter Drugs

  • Safe for general public (e.g., Advil, Tylenol).

• Prescription Drugs

  • Used for healing and pain relief, prescribed by professionals.

• Illegal Drugs

  • Not prescribed, can damage organs and affect emotions.
  • Impact on performance in school and other activities.
  • Risks of addiction and long-term substance abuse.

Misuse and Addiction

• Misuse of any drug can lead to health issues, including addiction.
• Substance Use Disorder
  • Affects brain and behavior; inability to control drug use.
  • Types include opiate, nicotine, stimulant disorders, etc.
  • Addiction can begin with experimental use or prescribed medications.
  • Higher risk with certain drugs (e.g., opioids).

Common Illegal Drugs

• Sedatives/Opioids

  • Examples: Heroin, tranquilizers.
  • Cause drowsiness, risk of overdose.

• Stimulants

  • Examples: Caffeine, cocaine.
  • Cause anxiety, seizures, and aggression.

• Hallucinogens

  • Examples: LSD, magic mushrooms.
  • Alter perception and senses.

Alcohol and Cannabis

• Alcohol

  • Use often influenced by peers, social media.
  • Risks include injuries, poisoning, impaired judgment.

• Cannabis

  • Commonly used, second only to alcohol in Canada.
  • Active chemicals: THC (psychoactive) and CBD (medical potential).
  • Different methods of consumption affect the body differently.

Vaping and Energy Drinks

• Vaping among youth is rising, poses addiction risk due to nicotine.
• Energy drinks contain varying caffeine levels; excessive caffeine can lead to health issues.

Recognizing Overdose

• Signs include severe headache, confusion, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
• Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act
  • Provides legal protection for individuals seeking help during an overdose.

Conclusion

• Officer Singera emphasizes the importance of understanding drug usage and its effects.
• Encourages seeking help and being informed.
• Closing remarks wishing safety for all.