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Transcript for 2009 Chat Day
Questions Answered Between Approximately 1 pm and 6 pm
The transcript is in reverse chronological order (earlier questions are at the bottom of this page)
* To search this page for specific words type "Ctrl" + "F" on your keyboard (Command + "F" on a Mac). Then, type the word (or words) you are searching for in the window that pops up, then hit "enter" on your keyboard. The word(s) you searched for will be highlighted.
HEY THERE! Thanks for
participating in our third Drug Facts Chat Day! We had over 13,000
questions from 70 schools across the country. We were able to answer
over 1200 questions today, even if we didn't answer your specific question, read
through the chat transcript, you will probably find an answer to a similar
question from someone else. We will be posting the transcript in the next
few days, so please check back and look to see if we answered questions from
your school! 
joints - New Egypt High School, New
Jersey: why do people do drugs 
Nancy Pilotte: That is a complicated
question. Some people try them because their friends are using them.
Some think they will alleviate stress or depression, so some people may be
trying to self-medicate. Some people use them to feel good, or
better. And some people use them compulsively, in spite of negative
consequences. We call these people addicts. But the good news
is: Teens are taking better care of themselves: illicit drug use declined
by 24% from 2001 to 2008.Did you know that every year researchers at the University of Michigan supported by NIDA ask 8th, 10th and 12th graders around the country about their attitudes towards - and use of - drugs? It's the Monitoring the Future Survey, and you can look at the results on the NIDA Web site at http://www.drugabuse.gov/Drugpages/MTF.html
tborland2 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: when heroin was first made was it for a medical
use. Nancy
Pilotte: No one really knows the answer to that question! Heroin
is one of the oldest drugs we now, having been cultivated in Asia for hundreds
of years. It may have been smoked (opium) well before its medicinal
properties were discovered. But we do know it (and its close relative,
morphine, and their derivataives) are extremely addicting. Did you know that
in 2008, nearly one in ten high school seniors reported the non-medical use
of the prescription pain reliever Vicodin, and one in 20 abused OxyContin. Abuse
of these drugs can be associated with overdose and death, especially when they
are taken at high doses, in non-prescribed routes (e.g., snorting or injecting),
or in combination with alcohol or other drugs. silly goose - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what are the effects of acid? My cousin died
form it on his try. why? Nancy
Pilotte: I'm sorry that your cousin died from ingesting what he
took as LSD. LSD is usually concocted in someone's home
laboratory and can have a host of contaminants in it that can be lethal.Hallucinogens, such as LSD, can cause unpredictable psychological effects
including delusions and visual hallucinations. Physical effects can include
dangerously increased body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. People
taking acid can also experience sleeplessness, and rapid, intense
emotional swings. This experience, as you can expect, can be extremely confusing
and frightening to the person taking acid. For more information on acid and
other hallucinogens, please click on www.abovetheinfluence.com and www.abovetheinfluence.com. Please take
care!
kolinger - Junction City High
School, Oregon: What is the effect of shrooms on the brain and
body? Nancy
Pilotte: what's up?!Hallucinogenic compounds found in some plants and mushrooms (or their extracts) have been used - mostly during religious rituals - for centuries. While the exact mechanisms by which hallucinogens exert their effects remain unclear, research suggests that these drugs work, at least partially, by temporarily interfering with neurotransmitter action or by binding to their receptor sites.
Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is obtained from certain types of mushrooms that are indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Mexico, and the United States. The active compounds in psilocybin-containing "magic" mushrooms have LSD-like properties which can produce hallucinations, an altered perception of time, and an inability to discern fantasy from reality. Panic reactions and psychosis also may occur, particularly if a user ingests a large dose. Long-term effects such as flashbacks, risk of psychiatric illness, impaired memory, and tolerance have been described in case reports. Want more information on hallucinogens? Visit http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/ACIDLSD.html and http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/PCP.html
annarules - Kingswood Middle
School, New Hampshire: some people say that u can get high off of
scented markers is that true? Nancy
Pilotte: Markers contain volatile organic compounds that can
affect your lungs (decreasing the amount of oxygen you can use), your liver, and
your brain (both lipid-intense organs that are damaged by these
compounds). Some of the components of markers are also chemicals that are
abused as 'inhalants' because you breathe them in. Markers dry
pretty quickly when they are exposed to air, but if you have enough, it is
possible to abuse them.You will also find facts, trends, statistics, graphics and reports on specific drugs on NIDA's Web site: www.inhalants.drugabuse.gov
Atowers14 - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: How does smoking and other drugs effect a womans
pregnancy? and her child? Cora Lee
Wetherington: Thank you for asking that very important
question. It is an important question for every teenage female
smoker. In the United States, it is estimated that about 16 percent of
pregnant women smoke during their pregnancies. Carbon monoxide and nicotine from tobacco smoke may interfere with the oxygen supply to the
fetus. Nicotine also readily crosses the placenta, and concentrations in the
fetus can be as much as 15 percent higher than maternal levels. Nicotine
concentrates in fetal blood, amniotic fluid, and breast milk. Combined, these
factors can have severe consequences for the fetuses and infants of smoking
mothers. Smoking during pregnancy caused an estimated 910 infant deaths annually
from 1997 through 2001, and neonatal care costs related to smoking are estimated
to be more than $350 million per year. The adverse effects of smoking
during pregnancy can include fetal growth retardation and decreased birthweight.
The decreased birth weights seen in infants of mothers who smoke reflect a
dose-dependent relationship - the more the woman smokes during pregnancy, the
greater the reduction of infant birthweight. These newborns also display signs
of stress and drug withdrawal consistent with what has been reported in infants
exposed to other drugs. In some cases, smoking during pregnancy may be
associated with spontaneous abortions and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS),
as well as learning and behavioral problems and an increased risk of obesity in
children. In addition, smoking more than one pack a day during pregnancy nearly
doubles the risk that the affected child will become addicted to tobacco if that
child starts smoking. casa grande mb - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: is it possible for someone to get in trouble
if they just want to have fun????????????? Nancy Pilotte: Dude...it depends on the
type of fun you want to have. Be safe! casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how is chocolate considered a drug?
Nancy
Pilotte: Como estas Casa Grande!Some people say they are addicted to chocolate as a way of affirming that they like it very much. But they are probably exaggerating a bit! The definition of drug addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. Now some of those consequences may be weight gain, or dental issues, but those are usually not thought of in the same way as negative consequences that occur through use of addictive drugs. That said, chocolate is a plant product that has a very complex makeup, and it has some of compounds in it like theobromine that are similar to caffeine.
lilman - Spring Woods High School,
Texas: do i have a risk of getting addicted to alcohol if my dad
has drinking problems? Kevin
Conway: Great question! Kids with alcoholic or drug-abusing
parents are much more likely to try alcohol/drugs and develop
alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for several interrelated
reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts have an increased risk for
childhood behavioral problems, which in turn increases the the risk of trying
alcohol/drugs. Second, children of alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more
opportunities to try alcohol/drugs. Third, children of
alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic liability for
alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s)) which places them
at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of course, most
children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop alcoholism/addiction themselves,
so neither genetics nor environment is 'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
I do not belong - Junction City
High School, Oregon: can you not get addicted to marijuana and
meth if u only do it one timeand what are the side affects on a persion that is
only 5' 1" tall and weighs about 99 pounds? Steve Grant: If you only take a drug one
time and one time only, then you will not be addicted. The problem
is that there is a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted and why,
and after how much drug exposure. We do know that each person is different, so
it's a little like playing 'Russian Roulette' if you choose to use drugs. But,
if you do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you will be to avoid addiction
and the harmful brain changes that lead to it. However, just because you don't get addicted doesn't mean you won't have bad side effects, especially for someone your size and weight.
SCLions085 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: Quick Question Here: Why do people try
drugs when they know they are bad for you? Kevin Conway: That's a really great
question! Knowing that drugs are harmful doesn't prevent people from using
drugs. Prevention is more complicated than simply providing people with
'just the facts'. How many people do you know that, for example, smoke
cigarettes even though they know how harmful they are? There are lots of
reasons that someone might use drugs even though they know they are bad for
you. For example, adolescents may use drugs in response to peer
pressure. Thanks for the question!
whereswaldo - Dixie High School,
Utah: what in ciggarettes causes cancer? Nancy Pilotte: Thanks for the
question!Cigarettes are very complex products and cancers are very complex diseases. It is not possible to zero in all the carcinogens in cigarettes and to explain how each them interacts with the body to cause cancer. You might check the website of the National Cancer Institute at http://www.nci.nih.gov/; they have an extensive website and lots of information. Good luck!
elshydelcj - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: If you mix cocaine with wine and weed at the same
time could that kill you? Nancy
Pilotte: Hi Spring Wood,Whether you die or not depends on how much of the drugs you used. Using multiple drugs at once (called polydrug use) can be quite dangerous. I would suggest that you not play roulette with your health or life. For more information on how to live above the influence of drugs and alcohol, visit http://www.abovetheinfluence.com and http://teens.drugabuse.gov/.
heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: i have a friend when she is mad she says she wants to
kill herself or run away i know she is not on drugs or drinking because i am
with hr 24/7 what can i do t ostop her from saying that because it concerns me
that she might do it one day Richard
Denisco:
If your friend talks about suicide the best to do is encourage her to talk to
a school counselor, trusted adult, or parent. You can also try asking her to
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help
24/7.
striker37 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: please answer hurry if you have adhd can you still
get a high from riddlin Gaya
Dowling: That's a great question. As you know ADHD is often
treated with stimulant medications like Ritalin. If they're taken as prescribed,
they are safe and effective and won't get you high. But they can be abused if
taken in ways other than how they are prescribed. Some people have also been
concerned that giving stimulant medications to kids or teens may make them more
vulnerable to substance abuse down the road. Currently, the research suggests
that stimulant medications do not increase the risk of substance abuse in
children with ADHD, and may even be protective. jugelett-hottie - Dixie High
School, Utah: HELLO!!!!!! HI I HAVE A QUESTION AND THAT WOULD BE
WHAT CAN I DO TO SHOW MY FRIEND THAT DRUGS WILL HURT HER Lisa Onken: Have your friend visit this
website: http://www.drugabuse.gov/consequences/.Good luck!
casa grandema - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Is it really dangerous for a pregnant woman
to be around someone who is drinking or smoking? Cora Lee Wetherington:
Yes. Pregnant women who are exposed to secondhand smoke
have a 20% higher odds of giving birth to a low-birth weight baby than women who
are not exposed to secondhand smoke during pregnancy. Therefore,
pregnant women should carefully avoid being around people who are
smoking. Also, if a pregnant woman smoked before pregnancy and is
having trouble stopping, she needs to seek help in quitting and avoid being
around smokers as they can be triggers for her to smoke.And, of course, pregnant women should not drink alcohol during pregnancy because of the many well-known effects it can have on her baby including fetal alcohol syndrome---a condition that really hurts normal childhood development. So, if a women had a problem with drinking before pregnancy and is having trouble giving it up, she needs to seek treatment for her alcohol problem and avoid being around people to do drink as they may serve as a trigger for her to drink. The baby's safety needs to come first. Check out Smokefree.gov
215451 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: can u get addicted to meth the first time?
Steve
Grant: Yes, some people take a drug and realize right away that
they will not be able to stop using it. The problem is that there is
a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted and why, and after how much
drug exposure. We do know that each person is different, so it's a little like
playing 'Russian Roulette' if you choose to use drugs. But, if you do, the
earlier you stop, the more likely you will be to avoid addiction and the harmful
brain changes that lead to it. Wisa :) - Cashmere High School,
Washington: i have a friend named S. and she is addicted to
Heroin. its really bad to where she has her whole name writen on her with the
needle points.. she is in alot of trouble and has gone to jail a couple times.
What should i do????????????? she is one of me really close friends.
Lisa
Onken: S. is lucky to have a friend who cares about her like
you do. There are several ways that you can help. You can
let her know that you care that she is hurting herself. And you
can tell her that I told you that there is treatment for heroin
addiction, and that it works! Let her know about the SAMHSA
hotline: 1-800-273-TALK, and you can let her know where to find treatment
programs through the SAMHSA website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov It's very hard to be friends with someone who is addicted to heroin (with all of the things that go with that), but believe it or not you are not alone in being friends with someone with such a drug problem. Here is a website for support from other teens who care for someone with an addiction problem: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
I wish you and your friend the best of luck!
shawla - Cashmere High School,
Washington: how can you tell that someone is using marijuana?
Richard
Denisco: The most accurate way is a urine test. With marijuana if the person is smoking heavily the urine can stay
positive for a month. Behavioral ways are the appearance of the 'Demotivational
Syndrome' where the person loses interest in activities, spends much time
sleeping, poor grooming, and poor grades. conley1 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: What does PCP do to the body? is it true that it can
make you 20x times stronger? Steve
Grant: PCP has a number of effects on the brain, but the main
psychological effects is to produce a 'dissociative' state. That means
that your subjective experience seems separate from your body. So if you
get hit or injured, you don't feel it. Because you don't feel the pain or
are even aware of what is happening to your body, you can persist in fighting or
struggling under conditions when you would normally stop. Bottom line, PCP
doesn't make you stronger, but it does make you less aware of how much your are
getting hurt. Baby Angel - Cashmere High School,
Washington: my brother does Marijuana and I think Meth, how can i
help him? Lisa
Onken: Having a brother on drugs is HARD! I'm sorry for you
and for your family and for your brother. Let him know that you
care about him, and that you care what he is doing to himself. There
are good treatments for both marijuana and methamphetamine, and you can let him know that
he can find treatment programs through the SAMHSA website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov. Also,
you can tell him about the SAMHSA hotline: 1-800-273-TALK and
he can talk with someone privately about what's going
on. It must be hard to see your brother hurting himself like this, but you should know that you aren't alone in caring about someone with a drug use problem. Visit this website for support from other teens going through what you are: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
Lastly-remember how great your brother is when he's not on drugs and keep working with him and your parents to get him back to the person you know he is.
keren - Spring Woods High School,
Texas: how many brain cells did you kill when you smoke
Nancy
Pilotte: Well, Spring Woods,It may sound kind of square, but I have honestly never tried smoking marijuana, cigarettes or anything else that you could try to smoke. Most drugs of abuse affect the way your brain functions, but only amphetamines (including meth, crystal meth, etc) have been shown to produce measurable brain damage when smoked. The largest risk of smoking is to your lungs, because there are so many other chemicals in the leaf of the tobacco (or marijuana) in addition to what the maufacturers put into the product. Did you know that tobacco is linked to an estimated 440,000 deaths per year? And guess what?! - Tobacco smoke causes cancer of the mouth, esophagus, larynx, blood, lungs, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder, and cervix.
Information about smoking and prevention can be found at www.smokefree.gov.
kathryn+hailey - Wilson Central
High School, Tennessee: If steroids are bad for you then why do
doctors give them to patients? Steve
Grant: Like all drugs, steroids have both beneficial and harmful effects.
Steroids can be very useful for treating diseases. For example, I once got
a very bad case of poison ivy, so bad that my eyes were swollen shut. My
doctor prescribed steroids for me, which greatly reduced the swelling and
itching. Because I was taking steroids under a doctors supervision, the
doctor knew how much was safe to take and how long I should take the
steroids. When people take steroids illicitly they can easily take too
much and end up in worse health than before they started. bjbrewer.z2010 - Skaneateles High
School, New York: how does crack damage your heart ? Stephanie Older: Regardless of the route or
frequency of use, cocaine abusers can experience heart attacks or strokes, which
may cause sudden death. Cocaine-related deaths are often a result of cardiac
arrest or seizure followed by respiratory arrest. 215451 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: my friend J. smokes and i dont know how to help
her!! Richard
Denisco: You can't make her do anything she doesn't want to,
but what you can do is try to get her help. First learn a little about
it yourself on our website http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php .From
there you can also get some help from a trusted adult, family or friends.
Somehow if she could talk to a counselor it might start the process, but it
is not easy and she may need formal treatment. Depending on how involved
she is with drugs it can be a life or death problem and you need some help
to deal with her. You can also try www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where
you can find private and confidential help 24/7. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what can steroids do to a male or female?
Cora Lee
Wetherington: When anabolic steroids are used for non-medical purposes such as to increase
athletic performance, they disrupt the normal production and balance of
hormones in the body, and can lead to a long list of alterations, such as
reduced sperm production, shrinking of the testicles, male-pattern baldness and
breast development in men. In the female body, anabolic steroids abuse can cause
masculinization. This means that females may experience decreases in body fat,
coarsening of the skin, and deepening of the voice. Women may also experience
excessive growth of body hair (chest, chin, back, etc.) and lose the hair on
their head. Examples of other effects are increased risk of blood clots and
damage to heart muscle. Most important, with continued steroid use, some of
these effects can become irreversible. S.A.WhiteTiger - Cashmere High
School, Washington: My sister and brother smoke, whats a good way
to get them to quit? Ivan
Montoya: That's nice that your trying to help them. There are
medications and behavioral approaches that can help, including some excellent
websites with information on how to quit smoking and toll-free quit lines.
Among the medications approved for treating tobacco addiction are nicotine replacement therapies, bupropion, an antidepressant
that also help smokers quit, and varenicline, the most recently FDA approved
medication for smoking cessation. You should know that it can be
tough--and most people relapse, but they shouldn't give up trying, since they
ultimately can get there. For more information, check out: 1-800-QUIT-NOW
(1-800-784-8669),a national toll free number, that routes callers to their
state's smoking cessation quitline or, in states that have not established
quitlines, to one maintained by the National Cancer Institute. In addition, a
new Web site (www.smokefree.gov) from the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services offers online advice and downloadable information to make
cessation easier. 215451 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: my brother does marijuana.. what should i do?
Richard
Denisco: You can't make him do anything he doesn't want to,
but what you can do is try to get him help. First learn a little about
it yourself on our website http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php .From
there you can also get some help from a trusted adult, family or friends.
Somehow if he could talk to a counselor it might start the process, but it
is not easy and he may need formal treatment. Depending on how involved he
is with drugs it can be a life or death problem and you need some help to
deal with him. You can also try www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help
24/7. dfielder91 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: whats the negative effect of shrooms? Nancy Pilotte:
JC...what's up?!Hallucinogenic compounds found in some plants and mushrooms (or their extracts) have been used - mostly during religious rituals - for centuries. While the exact mechanisms by which hallucinogens exert their effects remain unclear, research suggests that these drugs work, at least partially, by temporarily interfering with neurotransmitter action or by binding to their receptor sites.
Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is obtained from certain types of mushrooms that are indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Mexico, and the United States. The active compounds in psilocybin-containing "magic" mushrooms have LSD-like properties which can produce hallucinations, an altered perception of time, and an inability to discern fantasy from reality. Panic reactions and psychosis also may occur, particularly if a user ingests a large dose. Long-term effects such as flashbacks, risk of psychiatric illness, impaired memory, and tolerance have been described in case reports. Want more information on hallucinogens? Visit http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/ACIDLSD.html and http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/PCP.html
cyoung - Junction City High School,
Oregon: Why do we start drinking alcohol at 21 when are brain
isn't fully developed until age 25? Lisa
Onken: Good question. While we scientists may think that
what we find out through our research should influence policy and law-but
that's not always the case. Bottom line: what is legal vs what is not
legal isn't necessarily based upon science. tjones1 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: if your dating someone that does marijuana does
that increase your chance of doing it? Kevin
Conway: Great question! Research shows that individuals who
have friends who use drugs are more likely to use drugs themselves. But,
we don't really know why this is the case. It could be that, by hanging
out with drug users, you have more opportunities to try drugs. Certainly,
you can choose not to try drugs if offered -- but this can be a challenge.
An alternative approach would be to see if your friend will stop using marijuana -- for your benefit and his/hers. When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
cuevas - Cashmere High School,
Washington: im a pcpaddicted and i want to stop. i want to get
help right away. Richard
Denisco: If you want help, then you are doing the best
thing by asking for help. The most effective treatment is behavioral and
group therapy with others who are also trying to quit.One source of help is SAMHSA www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
cuevas - Cashmere High School,
Washington: Is LSD a highly used drug? Gaya Dowling: Nope. According to a National
survey, only about one-tenth of one percent of people over the age of 12 used LSD in the month prior to the survey. SPANISH FLYY - Cashmere High
School, Washington: i love weed. help me Richard Denisco: If you want help, then you
are doing the best thing by asking for help. The most effective treatment
is behavioral and group therapy with others who are also trying to quit.One source of help is SAMHSA www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
Wisa :) - Cashmere High School,
Washington: what if i go to a therapist but they dont do anything
to help??? Lisa
Onken: You've basically have two options-stick with the therapist
you've got and try and make it work by helping them to help you OR find a new
therapist. But either way-don't give up on therapy-it helps lots and lots
of people live better lives. It's good to know that therapists do
differ in terms of their education, training, and skills, so it is possible
that the therapist you've got isn't the right one for you. It is
also possible that if let your therapist know he or she isn't helping, they
can get a better idea of how to help. It may take
several sessions to know if they can help you or not, but if you are really
trying and you don't feel like you've made any progress, then it may
be time to move on to a therapist who WILL and CAN help. And, since you are
already in therapy I'm guessing your folks know-so it may help to talk with them
about the situation.The point is, you deserve to speak with someone who can help you, and you shouldn't be shy about getting the help that you need. Please don't give up!
kmichelle - Junction City High
School, Oregon: why is Marijuana a gateway drug Nancy Pilotte: Hi JC,That is a really interesting question. If a drug acts as a 'gateway,' then its use would lead to the use of another, different drug--and for some, that seems to be what happens. But for a lot of people, it does not. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is supporting research that addresses this question, but we have no clear answer yet. So, is marijuana a gateway drug? The gateway concept is one that generates a lot of controversy, is not yet scientifically settled, and could also be applied to nicotine or alcohol. And, while it is true that most people who use other drugs have also used marijuana (and nicotine, alcohol), it is not true that most marijuana users go on to use other drugs. Moreover, it is important to recognize that marijuana itself presents significant health risks, including the risk of addiction.
Have you seen the Sara Bellum Blog? It has all the latest information on drugs and drug abuse, and you can comment on what's written. Check it out at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/.
bear - Dixie High School,
Utah: do steroids really make your wiener smaller? Steve Grant: Not your weiner, but steroids can shrink your testicles. That is because
steroids alter your body's hormonal balance including hormones related
to sexual organs. You can find out more by clicking here on steroids.
Mighty Mouse - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: que pasa si tenemos relaciones sexuales con una
persona que consume drogas; tendria peligro la criatura cuando nasca??? caules
serian los riesgos??? por favor contestenme... Steve Grant: Los riesgos para una criatura
que nace de una madre que usa drogas durante el embarazo, dependeran de la
droga. Sin embargo, estos estudios (establecer una relacion causal) son muy
dificles de realizar porque es muy raro que una persona use una droga en forma
exclusiva. Asi, los efectos del cigarrillo muchas veces estan contaminados con
los efectos del alcohol o la marijuana. Los efectos prenatales del alcohol son tal
vez los que estan mejor caracterizados en lo que se denomina el sindrome de
alcohol fetal. Los efectos de otras drogas como la marijuana o el crack
tienden a ser bastante sutiles y a manifestarse preponderantemente en
un riesgo mayor de deficiencias conductuales durante la ninez. Pero no se ha
podido demostrar aun que estos efectos, de existir, sean
irreversibles. puedes encontrar mas informacion sobre los efectos de exposicion prenatal a varias drogas en nuestro sitio web:
http://www.nida.nih.gov/nidaespanol.html
dixie smurf123 - Dixie High School,
Utah: why do drugs make you do odd things? Steve Grant: The short answer
is people do odd things after taking drugs because different drugs alter
your judgement in different ways. Some drugs make you overconfident, and
some drugs decrease your ability to pay attention to the things going on all
around you, even when those events are critical to your health (like ignoringn a
red light while driving). Other drugs, like LSD, can change your perceptions so much that you can't
recognize dangerous things around you (such as an on-coming car, or a roof
ledge). conley1 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: What's the best way to quit smoking? i have aa friend
who is addicted and has cancer and NEEDS to quit, what should i do? Richard Denisco: There are many good
treatments to quit smoking. Medications, gum-lozenges, counseling, and Quit
Lines (1 800 Quit Now) Many of these treatments can be obtained from your
primary care doctor and would be the best place to start for someone who already
has cancer. Many people think if they have cancer there is no reason to stop
smoking, but this isn't true, since the cancer treatments have improved
greatly and it is important to quit smoking to get the most effect of the cancer
treatment. hbishop - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: can a baby die from drugs while there in ur tummy and ur
using them? Ivan
Montoya: Your question is very important. It is known that drugs
of abuse can cross the placenta and reach the fetus. So, drugs used by the
mother definitely can affect the baby's health and can even produce
long-term harm many years later. That is why doctors recommend that pregnant
mothers should not smoke or use alcohol or other illicit drugs. SCLions081 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: What does sniffing cocaine do to your
nose? Nancy
Pilotte: Cocaine is a local anesthetic and also causes blood vessels to
constrict. When the cocaine wears off, the vessels dilate again.
With repeated use, snorters of cocaine experience weakened capillaries in
your nose (the small blood vessels), which can lead to nose bleeds and
experience a decrease in their ability to smell. It is not a pretty
picture.Connect and Interact. Free downloads and cool videos about drugs. http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/index.php#downloads
Mr.Vlah... - Port Chester High
School, New York: Which can do more of damage shrooms or marijuana?
And are their damages simliar? Stephanie
Older: Both can do damage--there are too many variables to say
which one causes more damage. The active chemical in 'shrooms' is
psilocybin. The use of psilocybin has been associated with nausea, vomiting,
muscle weakness, drowsiness, and lack of coordination. The psychological side
effects of psilocybin use include hallucinations and an inability to distinguish
fantasy from reality. Panic attacks and psychosis may also occur, particularly
if a user ingests a large dose. Also associated with the ingestion of psilocybin
is the risk of poisoning if one of the many varieties of poisonous mushrooms is
incorrectly identified as a psilocybin mushroom. Short term effects of marijuana include distorted perceptions, impaired coordination, difficulty in thinking and problem solving, and problems with learning and memory.
shawla - Cashmere High School,
Washington: does weed cure cancer??? Cindy Miner: No, there are no data that
indicate that marijuana can cure cancer. Larry - Dixie High School,
Utah: I have a friend who drinks, smoke, and does a few other
drugs he wants to quit but he needs help what should I do to help him quit.
Kevin
Conway:
I'm glad to hear that you are willing to help your friend! When someone
has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know
is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance
counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment
Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance
Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and
other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can
also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Good
luck!
Carrie - Skaneateles High School,
New York: Which drug is most commonly used by teens? And by
adults? Ivan
Montoya: The drug most frequently used by teens and adults is nicotine... followed by alcohol. After that, the most frequently used drugs are marijuana and illicit use of prescription medications. PD_frog - Junction City High
School, Oregon: What part of the brain is ADD/ADHD in?
Nancy
Pilotte: What's up, JC?!What's ADHD? Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, controlling behavior, and hyperactivity (over-activity).
While we don't know if there is one particular area of the brain that is affected by ADD/ADHD, treatment of ADHD with stimulants, often in conjunction with psychotherapy, helps to improve the symptoms of ADHD, as well as the self-esteem, cognition, and social and family interactions of the patient. The most commonly prescribed medications include amphetamines (e.g., Adderall®, a mix of amphetamine salts) and methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin and Concerta - a formulation that releases medication in the body over a period of time). These medications are safe and effective when taken as prescribed and have the effect of calming and "focusing" effect on individuals with ADHD.
Need more information? Visit http://www.drugabuse.gov/Infofacts/ADHD.html
Sinthia - Bixby High School,
Oklahoma: if i want to be in the cool crowd... should i party?
Ivan
Montoya: There is no problem with partying, per se. The
problem comes when alcohol and drugs are readily available and peer
pressure comes into play to use drugs as a way of fitting in. Find friends
who don't need drugs to party. Check out who'll be at a party, and what the
plans are before you commit to something that may turn out to be an awkward
situation for you. Know the facts about drugs, and stop to think before
you do something rash that you may end up regretting. The cool crowd are
the people who appreciate you for who you are, not for what you do or don't do.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what is in the drugs that make our brains
not function well? Larry
Stanford: The most common way in which the cells in our brain
communicate with one another is by releasing a chemical (called a
neurotransmitter), which then causes a response in one or many other
cells. Drugs are chemicals and they act in the brain by tapping into
the brain's communication system and interfering with the way nerve cells
normally send, receive, and process information. Some drugs, such as marijuana and heroin, can activate neurons because their chemical structure
mimics that of a natural neurotransmitter. This similarity in structure 'fools'
receptors and allows the drugs to lock onto and activate the nerve cells.
Although these drugs mimic brain chemicals, they don't activate nerve cells in
the same way as a natural neurotransmitter, and they lead to abnormal messages
being transmitted through the network. Other drugs, like amphetamine
or cocaine, can cause the nerve cells to release abnormally large
amounts of natural neurotransmitters or prevent the normal recycling of these
brain chemicals. This disruption produces a greatly amplified message,
ultimately disrupting communication channels. For more information on how
drugs affect the brain, and a lot more information, see http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/addiction.html heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: thanks for helping me a lot nidachat you really helped
me a lot. Cindy
Miner: You are welcome....good luck with your friend. soccerman - Cashmere High School,
Washington: what happens if a two year old is drinking alchol
Richard
Denisco: If someone you know is giving a 2 year old alcohol or other drugs then this is child abuse! Get help!
Go to the police, school counsilor or other trusted adult if you are afraid of
harm. Try calling 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and
confidential help 24/7 for more information or help. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: is weed used for cancer treatments?
Stephanie
Older: A pill form of THC (an active ingredient in marijuana) is available for nausea associated with cancer
chemotherapy and certain other conditions. Holli2010 - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: WHICH GENDER IS MORE LIKELY TO DO
DRUGS???????? Ivan
Montoya: In general males are more likely to use drugs.
Unfortunately, females are catching up, and may be more vulnerable than males to
some of the consequences of drug use--including becoming addicted. justin beiber - Nantucket High
School, Massachusetts: what is the range of ages that people do
drugs? Ivan
Montoya: People of all ages use drugs. However, most people start
using drugs when they are teenagers and then their use decreases as they get
older. Unfortunately, some teenagers (and it's not known which ones) continue to
use drugs, and may become addicted. In fact most people who develop an
addiction began in adolescence or even childhood. heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: i have a friend she is 15 and she is pregnant she smokes
and drinks when she has the baby she is going to kill it and no one knows but me
and a counselor she trusted me to not tell anyone but i knew i had to. Was it
the right thing to do? Cindy
Miner: Talking to a trusted adult is the best thing...
you're friend sounds like she needs help, talking with a counselor can help you
get your friend the help she desparately needs. Potatoe Theif(: - Dixie High
School, Utah: what are some of the effects of tobacco?
Nancy
Pilotte: There are so many! Did you know that tobacco is linked to an estimated 440,000 deaths per year? To see the myriad of effects of tobacco, click on http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/tobacco and http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/. Happy Hunting!
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Is it true that using to many drugs can
damage your brain cells????? Steve
Grant: We now know that drugs change the way that brain cells
function, and that those changes can persist for quite some time even after
drug taking stopped. Amazingly, some of a drug's effects changes can
even affect gene function!!!. Depending on the drug, some
of these changes can start after taking the drug just
once. Some of these changes may revert back to normal in a day
or so, but some can last for months, maybe even longer. We don't know as
much as we should about these long-term effects of drugs or how long it takes
for the changes to return to normal. So, even though not all drugs
'kill' brain cells, they do change the way the brain works for a long time. This
should be a good enough reason to stay away from drugs. stephyyttt - Junction City High
School, Oregon: i have a friend. she whores around for meth, the
otherday she asked my meth selling boyfriend for a f*** for meth what shoud
i do? Richard
Denisco: You need to protect yourself and stay away from
them. You will go down with your boy friend and they will put it on you also.
Your friend will turn if she gets caught, so down you go again. If you are still
not doing meth get away. When you are safe, you can THEN try to get them help.
If you find yourself in a difficult situation and need more advice please call
1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: i have a friend who is on everything know and i did
something like telling her or hm that i wont talk to her until he or she stops
it i just found out i made it worse he or she brings it to school making it look
like he or she is drinking water what can i do to make her stop so then she can
thank me? Lisa
Onken: It sounds like your friend may be addicted and can't
quit. Since not taking to her didn't work, you could break the silent
treatment and let her know that you are concerned about what she's doing to
herself. And that it seems like she's not able to quit, but that you've
spoken with an expert at NIDA who told you that treatment for
addiction can help her stop using. Remember what your friend was like
before she started using, and try to keep that image in mind and keep trying to
help-she may not thank you but if she gets the help she needs she will likely be
a much better friend to you-and that may be all the thanks you need.If she wants to speak privately to someone, she can call the SAMHSA hotline: 1-800-273-TALK. And she can find treatment programs through the SAMHSA website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
BTW-it's tough having a friend with addiction issues and if you need some support visit: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
mickey143v2.0 - Port Chester High
School, New York: is crystal meth addictive on the first try
>??????????? >>>>?????? >>>>????? Nancy Pilotte: Hi Port Chester!Great question!!! There is a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted and why, and after how much drug exposure. Generally people do not get addicted after using a drug once, but it really depends on the drug and the individual taking the drug. It is a bit like playing Russian roulette with some drugs as there have been reports of people taking a drug for a single time that lead to a lifetime of addiction. Its better to not try any drug even once!
Emmanuel Rivera - Einstein High
School, Maryland: how hard is it to quit smoking? Cindy Miner: Quitting smoking can be very
hard. Many people quit for a week or two and then relapse. But
others can quit on their own. There are a number of treatments out there
that can help people quit, the nicotine patch, nicotine gum, and there are some medications
that doctors can prescribe that can be very effective. Talking with your
doctor is a good first step! nbradley - Junction City High
School, Oregon: im a migget at my school and i use meth to fit in
but now i feel i need it i just started shooting up with my dad and mom and they
think it is important for my developement what should i do Ivan Montoya: Well... it sounds like you
are in a very serious situation and could be getting addicted to
meth. Importantly, even though you may have initially experienced positive
effects of the drug, you are now recognizing its potential to have a
very negative impact. And this may be especially the case for a young
person whose brain is still developing. So, the sooner you stop
using the better. But this is not something you should do alone--if there is an
adult you trust, or a teacher or coach, you may want to consider asking them for
assistance. There are also some resources that are anonymous - for
example, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. They don't
just talk about suicide; they can help with a lot of issues including drug
abuse, and can connect you with a professional close by. There is also a website
with information about treatment programs: http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/. Wisa :) - Cashmere High School,
Washington: im an addict and i needhelp desperatly!! please help i
dont know what to do?? Richard
Denisco: Asking for help is the best thing you can do, you can get
help. The first thing to do is consider who can assist you; is a parent
available to help, is there a school counselor who can help? Also, you can go to
the SAMHSA website www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.Asking for help is the first step!
dawson! - Cashmere High School,
Washington: How does PCP affect human actions? Nancy Pilotte: Hi Cashmere!!Thank you for asking your question! PCP is phencyclidine which was originally developed as an anesthetics for surgery. PCP is a hallucinogen that can distort your perceptions of sight and sound and produce feelings of detachment and invincibility. PCP also affects our perception of pain. Many PCP users are brought to emergency rooms because of injuries that they have sustained while on 'trips'. One more thing, people on PCP can become violent or suicidal. Please consider all of these factors. PCP use is dangerous, and no one can predict how a person will respond to it. You could be one of those people that ends up in the hospital. For more information on PCP or other drugs, please click on www.teens.drugabuse.gov
dixie smurf123 - Dixie High School,
Utah: can a baby get high if it sees the person getting high and
smells it? Larry
Stanford: This is a really good question and a really tough one to
answer - primarily because we don't yet have enough information about
environmental exposures to many drugs. If the person getting high is
getting high on a drug that's being smoked, and is therefore in the
air around the baby, then it probably is possible that the baby could
get high. We know most about second-hand tobacco smoke exposure. Approximately 38,000 deaths
per year can be attributed to secondhand smoke and children exposed to
secondhand smoke are at an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome,
acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more severe asthma. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: can the drugs cause a person to become
mentally ill Kevin
Conway:
Great question! Drug abuse and mental illness commonly co-occur (this is referred to as comorbidity). High rates of comorbidity between drug use disorders and other mental illnesses does not mean that one caused the other, even if it appeared first. In fact, establishing this is difficult for several reasons. Some symptoms of a mental disorder may not be recognized until the illness has substantially progressed, and imperfect recollections of when drug use/abuse started can also present timing issues. Still, three scenarios deserve consideration:
- Drugs of abuse can cause abusers to experience one or more symptoms of another mental illness. The increased risk of psychosis in some marijuana abusers has been offered as evidence for this possibility.
- Mental illnesses can lead to drug abuse. Individuals with overt, mild, or even subclinical mental disorders may abuse drugs as a form of self-medication. For example, the use of tobacco products by patients with schizophrenia is believed to lessen the symptoms of the disease and improve cognition ('Smoking and Schizophrenia: Self-Medication or Shared Brain Circuitry?').
- Both drug use disorders and other mental illnesses are caused by overlapping factors such as underlying brain deficits, genetic vulnerabilities, and/or early exposure to stress or trauma.
All three scenarios probably contribute, in varying degrees, to how and
whether specific comorbidities manifest themselves.
Thanks for the
question!
logan - Junction City High School,
Oregon: my friend named george snorts vicodin daily...he even
smokes it out of a light bulb...well one day he took extacy and vicodin and
larazapram and drank alchohal...could this mix be fatal? Richard Denisco: This is an extremely
dangerous combination and yes it could be fatal. All of these drugs cause
respiratory depression and can cause breathing to stop and death and or brain
damage. If you need help, go to the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at http://www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
thegirl - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: Is our technology advanced enough to determine whether ot
not a person had done drugs in their whole lifetime? Nancy Pilotte: Hi Valley Vista, Wow...you
guys have been really active today!It would be really hard to do that with our current technology. We can test for drugs that are in your system right now by using blood or urine tests, but when the drug metabolized (broken down by your body), so is the evidence of its use. We can look longer term by testing hair samples for drug use because these chemicals are incorporated into hair. But when you get a haircut, some of the data is thrown away with the hair clippings! The usefulness of hair testing is limited by the time of last use--and if you continue to trim your hair.
Some schools have adopted a random student drug testing policy hoping it will: (1) serve as a deterrent and give students a reason to resist peer pressure to take drugs; (2) identify adolescents who have started using drugs so that parents and counselors can intervene early and help them; and (3) identify adolescents who already have drug problems, so they can be referred for treatment for much needed help. It is not intended to be punitive, but rather to prevent drug use or promote early intervention.
Keep the questions coming!
stephyyttt - Junction City High
School, Oregon: my friend feeds his daughter prescription drugs
daily, but im scared if i try to say something he will beat me so bad i die.
Richard
Denisco: If the prescription drugs are given as prescribed by a
doctor, then there should not be a problem. But if he is giving them to keep her
high, then this is child abuse. And you need to get out of the situation NOW if
you feel your life is in danger. Get help! Go to the police, if you are afraid
of harm, you should listen to yourself. Try calling 1-800-662-HELP,
where you can find private and confidential help 24/7 for more information or
help. Holt_01 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: What is one physical sign that someone is using
marijuana? Stephanie
Older: If someone is high on marijuana, he or she might seem silly and giggly for no reason; have very red, bloodshot eyes; and
have a hard time remembering things that just happened. asian lady - Nantucket High School,
Massachusetts: why dopeople call marijiana the gateway drug?
Cindy
Miner: Hey there Nantucket....are you all still in school?
Wow!The gateway concept is one that generates a lot of controversy, is not yet scientifically settled, and could also be applied to nicotine or alcohol. And, while it is true that most people who use other drugs have also used marijuana (and nicotine, alcohol), it is not true that most marijuana users go on to use other drugs. Moreover, it is important to recognize that marijuana itself presents significant health risks, including the risk of addiction.
serena - Junction City High School,
Oregon: what happens when you overdose on pain killers?
Richard
Denisco: Hi Serena,That unfortunately happens to about 30,000 people each year. Pain killers are narcotic opioids and cause respiration to slow and then stop. When there is no breathing the body does not get the needed oxygen and the heart and brain stop working. Even if the person is resusitated, if the brain goes without oxygen for 3 minutes it becomes perminently damaged, even if the body lives.
stephyyttt - Junction City High
School, Oregon: this girl at my school stole my fat sac of
marijuana, should i tell the principle or just beat her up? Cindy Miner: You really should talk with
the principle. If you are bringing drugs into school, and bullying fellow
classmates, it sounds like a cry for help to me. The first step to getting
help could be talking with your principle, a guidance counselor, or trusted
teacher. lilmiach - Camp Fire USA,
Ohio: Are there any drugs that can kill you? Richard Denisco: Just about any drug taken
in a way or amount that is not as prescribed can kill you. Even when the drug is
taken correctly, it is possible to have an allergic reaction and get very sick.
The bottom line is drugs/medications are safe if taken as prescribed, but when
abused any thing can happen including overdose/death. Michael - Junction City High
School, Oregon: what do mushrooms do to your body Stephanie Older: The psychological
consequences of psilocybin/mushroom use include hallucinations, an altered
perception of time, and an inability to discern fantasy from reality. Panic
reactions and psychosis also may occur, particularly if a user ingests a large
dose. Long-term effects such as flashbacks, risk of psychiatric illness,
impaired memory, and tolerance have been described in case
reports. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how do you help a friend that ask you to
help but just drinks and smokes more? Richard
Denisco: This is a question many people face when people they care
about start drinking or drugging. I would try to get him help, start with our
web page www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
But if he will not help himself, then try to be supportive and not judgmental. You can help him, but not make him do anything. Because this is a disease, just because he does not stop, does not mean that he does not value your friendship. Friendship alone can not treat alcohol disease just like it can not treat heart disease. But it's great to have a friend go through the process with you. So good luck.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: if the guy is on steroids can the girl still
get prenant? Cora Lee
Wetherington: Yep, but the chances of pregnancy could be reduced
because steroids can lead to reduced sperm production. But,
having said that, anabolic steroids should not be viewed as a
contraceptive! You should also be aware they they can also
cause shrinking of the testicles, male-pattern baldness and breast
development in guys. In general, people who use anabolic steroids are
at increased risk of blood clots and damage to heart muscle. And with
continued steroid use, some of these effects can become
irreversible.And girls should know that in girls, anabolic steroids abuse can cause masculinization. This means they may experience decreases in body fat, coarsening of the skin, and deepening of the voice. Females may also experience excessive growth of body hair (chest, chin, back, etc.) and lose the hair on their head.
girarkay13 - Presque Isle High
School, Maine: Does being under the influence of drugs have an
affect on your ability to concieve? Nancy
Pilotte: Wow! That is an interesting question. Some drugs, like marijuana, may lower sperm counts in males, but this too depends on how much and how often it is used. All drugs, for males, can influence your ability to 'follow-through' (if you know what I mean). In females, abuse of stimulants like cocaine and amphetamine may make you cycle irregularly, affecting your ability to become pregnant. So it is not an easy answer--your chances depend on your behavior.
spt0617 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: Will you please answer my question!! My friend has been
cutting her self. And I am VERY scared and concernd! She has also been having a
lot of mood swings....what does it mean?? Richard Denisco: People who become
depressed, lonely and isolated sometimes look to dangerous behaviors to 'feel
better'. Try talking to a counselor, trusted adult or doctor that can
help. If you'd like some more info about how to help your friend try
calling 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-273-TALK, where you can find private and
confidential help 24/7. DEJESUS KID - Cashmere High School,
Washington: have you ever drank???? did you ever get addicted to
it??? Cindy
Miner: Yes, I do have a drink now and then. But I know
because several people in my family including both my parents had problems with
drinking, that I am probably at high risk for alcoholism. So I am very
careful...I saw what alcoholism did to several people in my family, it isn't
worth it. I can have just as much fun drinking a diet coke! Wisa :) - Cashmere High School,
Washington: is it impossible for someone to stop drinking if they
are addicted to alcohol or drugs? is there medicine or some kind of help they
can get??????? Gaya
Dowling: No, it isn't impossible. Drug addiction is treatable.
There are medications for addiction to some drugs, like alcohol, heroin
and nicotine. For these as well as other types of drug addiction,
there are also 'talk therapies' that can help people stop using and also help to
solve other problems that tend to go along with drug abuse. If you know someone
who is struggling with addiction, let them know you are concerned without
being judgmental, and that there are people he can talk with in confidence.
There are some resources that are anonymous - for example, the National Suicide
Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. They don't just talk about suicide; they
can help with a lot of issues including drug abuse, and can connect your friend
with a professional close by. There is also a website with information about
treatment programs: http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/. heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: can you get high off of sharpies? Larry Stanford: Thanks for asking.
Yes, you can. Many markers have volatile substances whose chemical
vapors can be inhaled to produce psychoactive (mind-altering) effects. Inhalants often contain more than one chemical. Some chemicals
leave the body quickly, but others stay for a long time and get absorbed by
fatty tissues in the brain and central nervous system. One of these fatty
tissues is myelin, a protective cover that surrounds many of the body's nerve
fibers (neurons). Myelin helps nerve fibers carry their messages to and from the
brain. Long-term inhalant use can break down myelin. When this happens, nerve
cells are not able to transmit messages as efficiently, which can cause muscle
spasms and tremors or even permanent difficulty with basic actions like walking,
bending, and talking. These effects are similar to what happens to patients with
multiple sclerosis - a disease that also affects myelin. Inhalants also can
damage brain cells by preventing them from receiving enough oxygen. The effects
of this condition, also known as brain hypoxia, depend on the area of the brain
affected. The hippocampus, for example, helps control memory, so someone who
repeatedly uses inhalants may lose the ability to learn new things or may have a
hard time carrying on simple conversations. If the cerebral cortex is affected,
the ability to solve complex problems and plan ahead will be compromised. And,
if the cerebellum is affected, it can cause a person to move slowly or clumsily.
We have more information on inhalants on our teen website at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php
BBower - Junction City High School,
Oregon: If tar builds in your lungs, then how much would you have
to smoke before you suffocate of blocked lungs? Ivan Montoya: It is not a simple
question. We know that the more a person smokes the more likely they are
to suffer respiratory problems. And we also know that there are also
individual differences in vulnerability, so that someone with a predisposing
respiratory problem may need to smoke only a small amount to suffer serious
respiratory problems. sharie - Junction City High School,
Oregon: what happens when you experiment with hallucinogens?
Nancy
Pilotte: Hi there, thanks for the questiHallucinogens, such as LSD, can cause unpredictable psychological effects including delusions and visual hallucinations. Physical effects can include dangerously increased body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. People taking acid can also experience sleeplessness, and rapid, intense emotional swings. This experience, as you can expect, can be extremely confusing and frightening to the person taking acid. For more information on acid and other hallucinogens, please click on www.abovetheinfluence.com and www.abovetheinfluence.com
heart<3 - Port Chester High
School, New York: Is alcohol or marijuana harder to quit?
Richard
Denisco: Although we know what happens to the brain when someone
becomes addicted, we can't predict how many times a person must use a drug
before becoming addicted. A person's genetic makeup, the genes that make each of
us who we are, and the environment each play a role. What we do know is that a
person who uses drugs risks becoming addicted, craving the drug despite its
potentially devastating consequences. Abusing marijuana or alcohol can lead to many health consequences and will
effect any specific person differently. In the end, if addiction occurs it is
extremely painful and difficult to quit regardless of what drug you take. hroolds - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: I got caught drinking and smoking on my school
bus and now I dont know how to make my teachers respect me... Lisa Onken: When you do something you're
not supposed to do and you get caught, it sometimes feels like nothing will ever
be right. But the truth is that if you change for the better, and if you
continue to act in an admirable way, others usually notice it, and you can earn
back their respect. It takes time and it can take a lot of
effort. But you can get there. But there's another issue here: the fact that you were drinking and smoking on the bus. That makes me wonder if you've got alcohol and nicotine addiction, and if so, it may be hard to break the addiction on your own. If you are having trouble stopping, you can speak with an adult that you trust, like your mother or father, or a teacher, and see if they can help you get treatment for the addiction. Or, if you prefer, you can have a confidential conversation with a caring person on the SAMHSA hotline: 1-800-273-TALK, and you can find treatment programs at this website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Of course I hope that you aren't addicted, and that this is simply a matter of changing your behavior on the bus. But if you do have an addiction problem, please don't despair. Please know that help is within your reach, as well as the respect that you want to earn back!
Samantha - Parkdale High
School, Maryland: If a person has been smoking over the course of
many years, if they decide to quit, will the damage done to their lungs ever
heal? Nancy
Pilotte: Good question!The answer to that question depends on how often you've smoked during those 20 years, and what you smoked. The longer and more frequent the use, the more likely that there is damage. You physician or treatment provider may be able to assess how well your lungs work and can make suggestions to help you stop smoking. The good news is that quitting (or cutting down significantly) can allow your lungs to recover (although maybe not fully). And when you recover, you can breathe better, things will smell better to you, your breath will smell better, and food will be tastier. You will also reduce your risk of getting lung cancer, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Did you know that teens are smoking less than they used to? In fact, NIDA's Monitoring the Future Survey has found that cigarette smoking rates among youth are at historically low levels. Smoking by 12th graders in the month prior to the survey fell by 30% between 2001 and 2008.
For more information about smoking, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
Butterfly - Rockville High School,
Maryland: which drug has the worst long term affects? Nancy Pilotte: Hi Rockville High!The long-term effects depend on how long you take a drug and how much you take. Long-term nicotine use can lead to poor pulmonary function, and in some, lung cancer. Ethanol use and ethanol-related disease accounts for almost 25% of hospitalizations. Amphetamines can cause frank brain damage. I guess you have a wide choice of adverse effects. Choose wisely.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Are some drugs more addicting/harmful than
others? If so, which ones are worst? Which ones are least addictive Steve Grant: Whichever one you are
using. Some drugs can kill you quickly (heroin, methamphetamine), and some can kill you slowly (nicotine). Some won't kill you, but will ruin your health
or life prospects. There is a lot we still don't know about who becomes
addicted and why, and after how much drug exposure. We do know that each person
is different, so when you choose to use drugs it's a little like playing
'Russian Roulette'. But, if you do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you
will be to avoid addiction and the harmful brain changes that lead to it. hhentze - Junction City High
School, Oregon: What drug is the hardest to quit using?
Richard
Denisco: Although we know what happens to the brain when someone
becomes addicted, we can't predict how many times a person must use a drug
before becoming addicted. A person's genetic makeup, the genes that make each of
us who we are, and the environment each play a role. What we do know is that a
person who uses drugs risks becoming addicted, craving the drug despite its
potentially devastating consequences. Also opioids (like heroin, prescription opioids), cocaine esp. crack, and methamphetamine have physical properties that make it very
difficult to quit. So it really depends on the drug you are exposed to and your
genetics. In the end, if addiciton occurs it is extremely painful and difficult
to quit. val - Junction City High School,
Oregon: What is the brain's response to taking a depressant and a
stimulant at the same time (such as energy drinks mixed with alcohol)?
Ivan
Montoya: They affect different brain chemicals, called
neurotransmitters, and different brain systems. Energy drinks appear to
increase the noradrenaline levels in the brain. Alcohol enhances the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter
GABA and weakens the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, making a person
sluggish. The danger is that someone can be intoxicated on alcohol, but
awake--which could allow them to keep drinking or to try to drive when they
are impaired. hhentze - Junction City High
School, Oregon: What drug is most often used by teens in the USA?
Cora Lee
Wetherington:
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the most commonly abused substance among teens is alcohol, followed by tobacco. The most commonly abused illegal drug is marijuana. In 2006, 16.6% of 12 to 17 year olds had abused alcohol, 10.4% had abused cigarettes, and 6.8% had abused marijuana in the month prior to the survey.
You can learn more about drug abuse trends and statistics at: http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Stats.html
billy - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: Are steroids considered an illegal drug?
Nancy
Pilotte: Hi there!Well, first of all, we have to define a few things. First, a steroid is a representative of a class of hormones that your own body makes. Steroids you may recognize include cholesterol, estrogen, testosterone, vitamin D, and corticosteroids. Second, each of these kinds of steroids has a special function in your body and is present in very, very small amounts.
Misuse of anabolic steroids (which are used to build muscle mass) can result in serious adverse health consequences. Altogether, there are hundreds of anabolic steroids, including many that are manufactured (and not found in nature), and some that are metabolic by-products of androgens. They vary in potency and in side effects. Anabolic steroids are classified by the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) as Schedule III drugs and it is illegal to obtain or use them for the purposes of performance enhancement. So, if you want to get 'pumped up', do it the natural way - through exercise! For more information on anabolic steroids, check them out at www.drugabuse.gov.
potatoes - Dixie High School,
Utah: What is so amazing about the pill popping parties? They are
100% harmful to the body plus nobody knows what they put in the bowl. Therefore
why are more and more people showing up to the parties? Richard Denisco: This is a great question
and shows how crazy drug addiction is. Taking a handful of pills is just
CRAZY, but you are right people do it. Some people get a good feeling once and
continue 'chasing the high'. The problem with drug addiction is that it's a
brain disease and not logical. So use your logic and not your 'drug brain' to
make these decisions. joints - New Egypt High School, New
Jersey: how many people in america do drugs Kevin Conway: Great question! More
people smoke cigarettes, which contain the drug nicotine, than use any other drug. But an estimated 20.4
million people in the United States used some kind of illicit drug in the past
30 days, according to the latest government statistics. About 8.3 percent of all
persons age 12 and over are involved in use of illegal drugs or the nonmedical
use of prescription drugs.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a yearly interview of 67,500 persons sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, provides the most accurate estimates of drug, alcohol and tobacco use in the general U.S. population.
According to the 2006 NSDUH findings, illicit drug use rates have remained stable since 2002 and the use of some drugs has declined, but the survey has shown an alarming increase in the abuse of prescription-type psychotherapeutic drugs.
Most Popular Drugs of Abuse
According to the survey, these are the most commonly abused drugs:- Marijuana, by 14.8 million people, or 6 percent.
- Cocaine, 2.4 million users.
- Hallucinogens, including Ecstasy, 1 million users.
- Methamphetamine, about 731,000 users.
- Prescription drugs, 7 million nonmedical users.
For more information see: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK)
white fox - Dixie High School,
Utah: my mom smokes before, during, and after i was born and now
im 16 and my mom is still smoking so how bad did that damage my health?
Cora Lee
Wetherington: Thanks for your question. As you probably
know, smoking can cause a lot of serious health problems. Since you did
not mention that you have any health problems, that is good news, but we do
encouage you to ask your mom to seek help for her smoking addiction as soon
as possible. Although neither you nor your mom may be experiencing
the effects of her smoking right now, we know that you both cold be
affected later on in life. And---if she is smoking in your home you are being
exposed to second hand smoke, which is not healthy for you. The
sooner she stops smoking the sooner she can reduce the health risks both for you
and her. It is hard to quit--she will need your non judgmental support.
Here is a website where your mom can get help: Smokefree.gov Holt_01 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: have any of your close friends been addicted to
marijuana? Cindy
Miner: Yes, and its a very difficult thing to see happening to a
friend. If this is happening to you, encourage your friend to stop, if
they can't stop they need to seek help, keep encourageing them to get help from
their parents or a trusted adult. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: my dad is an alcoholic and every time he
gets home he argues, how do i get him to stop drinking? Richard Denisco: Thanks for your question.
Dealing with parental drug abuse is tough and I know this from first hand
experience. When I was living with a father who had a drinking
problem I needed friends I could talk to that I could trust. You can talk
to a friend or school counsler that can provide you with support by listening
and by helping to make sure you aren't impacted negatively by your dad's
drinking. For example, when my father would drink I would make
sure I didn't ride with him in the car and arranged for friends or their
parents to take me places. Also, I talked with my school
guidance counselor and participated in a local Al-Anon program for teens
(Alateen) whose parents used drugs. There I found
additional support on how to deal with my father's drug use from people
having the same experience. You can access more information
including: information on how to help someone stop using drugs
see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7,
and for more information about Alateen see:http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: What is the most commonly used drug in
Arizona (a specific drug please)? Kevin
Conway: Great question! More people smoke cigarettes, which
contain the drug nicotine, than use any other drug. As in other states, marijuana remains the most commonly used illicit drug in
Arizona. Arizona, like other states, also has a significant problem
with misuse of prescription drugs. Some research suggests that Arizona
leads the nation in sales of opiate analgesics (like hydrocodone).
For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php
Jiacalone_01 - Cashmere High
School, Washington: what percent of 9th graders smoke marijuana?
Gaya
Dowling: The main survey we use to collect information on teen
drug use looks at 8th and 10th graders, not 9th graders, but it will give you an
idea. In 2008, almost 6 percent of 8th graders and 14 percent of 10th graders
used marijuana in the month leading up to the survey. So, if you
hear that everybody's doing it, that's just not true. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: if your cousin does drugs and his mom and
dad dont know how do i tell him to stop without his parents finding out
Richard
Denisco: You can't make him do anything he doesn't want to,
but what you can do is try to get him help. First learn a little about
it yourself on our website http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php From there you can also get some help from a trusted adult, family or friends. Somehow if he could talk to a counselor it might start the process, but it is not easy and he may need formal treatment. Depending on how involved he is with drugs it can be a life or death problem and you need some help to deal with him. You can also try www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
chive - Cashmere High School,
Washington: What R Major Effects From Inhalents Stephanie Older: If sufficient amounts are
inhaled, nearly all inhalents produce a loss of sensation, and even
unconsciousness. Irreversible effects can be hearing loss, limb spasms, central
nervous system or brain damage, or bone marrow damage. Sniffing high
concentrations of inhalants may result in death from heart failure or suffocation
(inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs). stephyyttt - Junction City High
School, Oregon: everytime i hide my stash, somehow my dog still
manages to find it. its costing me alot of money what shoud i do? Cindy Miner: You should thank your dog,
sounds like he or she is looking out for your best interest. Good dog! mers - Junction City High School,
Oregon: how bad is a monster energy drink for you? Steve Grant: Energy drinks generally
contain the same amount of caffeine as a strong cup of coffee (or expresso
coffee). Very high amounts of caffeine can produce anxiety and even
heart problems. So think of an energy drink as just a different form of
coffee. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what happens if you take sreriods and viagra
Steve
Grant: Nothing good. Steroids are very powerful drugs and have widespread
effects on many parts of your brain and body. Taking steroids without
a doctor's prescription and supervision can lead to problems in many organs in
your body, including your skin, heart, and lungs. Viagra mainly affects
your cardiovascular system. Taking steroids and viagra could very well lead
to heart problems, and even a heart attack. So, bad idea all around. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how can i get my best friend to atop
smokeing weed/ Richard
Denisco: When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to
do. You can encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance
counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment
Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).Also, The National Suicide Prevention
Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of
issues, not just suicide. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: My Cousin is really bad with drug do you
think there is anyway of him stopping? Or do you think every time he gets around
them he will start again? Lisa
Onken: When you say he is 'really bad with drug' it makes me
think that he has a serious addiction problem. The bad news is that
when people are really addicted, they usually have trouble not using if there
are drugs around. But the good news is that even when people are really
addicted, if they get treatment the treatment can really help. You can let
your Cousin know that treatment can help him, and you can encourage him to talk
to his parents or another trusted adult to help him get the treatment he
needs. You can also let him know that he can talk to someone
confidentially at 1-800-273-TALK, and he can find treatment the SAMHSA
website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Also, there are lots of people who care about a friend or a relative with a drug use problem. There's even a website where you can get support from other people your age who are going through something similar: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen
peches1 - Camp Fire USA,
Ohio: what myths are there about drugs Steve Grant: There a numerous myths about
drugs, but the most critical myth is that drugs don't have bad effects. Most
drugs, whether legal or illegal, have both good effects and bad effects
(side effects). The larger amount of drugs and the longer you take a drug,
the more likely it is that you will suffer these negative effects. This
means that you should only take a drug after consulting with a doctor and
receving a legal prescription. That way the doctor can monitor your health
and adjust the dose so that you minimize the risk of experiencing these
adverse effects you may find additional useful info here:
http://archives.drugabuse.gov/Published_Articles/Myths.html (Archives)
hhentze - Junction City High
School, Oregon: What drug is most often used in the USA?
Kevin
Conway: Great question! More people smoke cigarettes, which
contain the drug nicotine, than use any other drug. But an estimated 20.4
million people in the United States used some kind of illicit drug in the past
30 days, according to the latest government statistics. About 8.3 percent of all
persons age 12 and over are involved in use of illegal drugs or the nonmedical
use of prescription drugs.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a yearly interview of 67,500 persons sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, provides the most accurate estimates of drug, alcohol and tobacco use in the general U.S. population.
According to the 2006 NSDUH findings, illicit drug use rates have remained stable since 2002 and the use of some drugs has declined, but the survey has shown an alarming increase in the abuse of prescription-type psychotherapeutic drugs.
Most Popular Drugs of Abuse
According to the survey, these are the most commonly abused drugs:- Marijuana, by 14.8 million people, or 6 percent.
- Cocaine, 2.4 million users.
- Hallucinogens, including Ecstasy, 1 million users.
- Methamphetamine, about 731,000 users.
- Prescription drugs, 7 million nonmedical users.
For more information see: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK)
isela_11 - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: is the goverment growing mary jane to perscribe
to certain ill people ? to cure them? Susan
Weiss: Since its inception in 1974, NIDA has been the sole
administrator of a contract to grow marijuana for research purposes, and the only legal source of
it in the United States. Scientific studies require a source of material that
has consistent and predictable potency, is free of contamination,
and is available in amounts to support research needs.
NIDA also supplies cannabis to seven patients under single patient so-called 'compassionate use' Investigational New Drug Applications (IND). In 1978, as part of a lawsuit settlement by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), NIDA began supplying cannabis to patients whose physicians applied for and received such approval from the FDA. In 1992, the Secretary of HHS terminated this practice, but decided that NIDA should continue to supply those patients who were receiving cannabis at the time. The drugs were not being administered to cure any illness, and several of the patients have died since then.
S.A.WhiteTiger - Cashmere High
School, Washington: Does ecstasy have any medical use?
Stephanie
Older: There are studies that are exploring this
with cases of post-traumatic stress disorder and for end-of-life
patients. All of these studies administer the drugs under controlled
situations with medical supervision. The results of these studies are not
yet out. Queen1221 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: what does meth do to you? Larry Stanford: This is a very important
question, thanks for asking. As a powerful stimulant, methamphetamine, even in small doses, can increase wakefulness
and physical activity and decrease appetite. Methamphetamine can also cause a
variety of cardiovascular problems, including rapid heart rate, irregular
heartbeat, and increased blood pressure. Hyperthermia (elevated body
temperature) and convulsions may occur with methamphetamine overdose, and if not
treated immediately, can result in death. Methamphetamine abuse can lead
to very serious medical, psychological, and social consequences. The
negative health effects include memory loss, aggression, psychotic
behavior, heart damage, malnutrition, and severe dental problems ('meth mouth').
Methamphetamine abuse also contributes to increased transmission of infectious
diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, and can infuse whole communities with
new waves of crime, unemployment, child neglect or abuse, and other social
ills. If you want to know more, go to our meth page at http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Methamphetamine.html zeroskater601 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: why is it when you have nicotine in your system
your brain craves it Nancy
Pilotte: That is a really great question and it gets to the issue
of how nicotine actually works. Nicotine itself if a plant derivative,
a chemical in its own right. It easily gets into the brain when you smoke
it, when you use a nicotine replacement product, or use smokeless tobacco products. Normally, your own brain produces a
neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, and this transmitter attaches to
special proteins in the brain called receptors that can also bind
nicotine. Now nicotine does something very interesting and
very much unlike what most other drugs do in the
brain, when those receptors are bound, they signal the cell membrane to
produce even more nicotinic receptors. Nicotinic receptors do not like
being empty, and so they somehow signal the brain that they need more
nicotine...and you smoke another cigarette...and one leads to another, and an
addiction is born. For more information about nicotine, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
SCLions050 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: what does LSD do Nancy Pilotte: Hi there! Congrats on
gettingyour question through!LSD use can result in unpredictable effects such as delusions and visual hallucinations. It can also increase body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. LSD is also known to cause sleeplessness and loss of appetite. LSD can result in psychotic-like episodes that can occur long after a person has taken the drug, such as dramatic mood swings from mania to profound depression, and hallucinations. Interested in more information? You can find out more at: http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/ACIDLSD.html
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: why do you think people make drugs (such as
companies) if they know that they are bad. And how come the goverment has not
done anything to stop them? Richard
Denisco: Great question. The drugs that are produced by
companies, or prescription drugs, are not bad. It's
when people abuse them that they cause negative consequences. The FDA
(Food Drug Administration) does regulate medications, but
because medications are useful and reduce suffering they are needed, again
it is when they are abused that the problems start. Like many things striking a
proper balance is the most desiresable and difficult thing to do. casa grande mb - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: is it possible from someone to stop drinking
if the are addicted to alcohol or drugs? is their medicine or some kind of help
that someone can get?????????? Richard
Denisco: It is very possible to stop drinking or using drugs, and
there are medications that can help. We currently have medications to
treat alcohol, nicotine, and opiate addiction. For alcohol the
medications used include: Antabuse, Depot Naltrexone, and Acamprosate. For
smoking medications include: Zyban, Nicotine Replacement Therapies (gum, spray,
patch), and Vareniciline. For opiate addiction medications include:
Methadone and Buprenorphine. NIDA is currently trying to develop
medications to treat marijuana, cocaine, and methamaphetamine addiction. Hope this helps. conley1 - Cashmere High School,
Washington: Do you think the use of drugs in teens will go down in
the following years? Cindy
Miner: Good question. Drug use in teens has been going down
since the mid 1990's...but the rate that use is dropping is slowing, so we need
to keep a close eye on the trend. casa grandesab - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: is there any type of drugs that are actually
considered good for your health? Richard
Denisco: Prescriptions drugs can be good for your health if they
are taken as indicated and when prescribed by a
physician. Although even prescribed medications have the potential
for side effects, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. Using illicit
drugs or prescription medications to get high, is dangerous and can
lead to many physical and mental problems. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Can cocain make you get brain lost?
Stephanie
Older:
Cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant that increases levels of dopamine, a brain chemical (or neurotransmitter) associated with pleasure and movement, in the brain's reward circuit. With repeated use, cocaine can cause long-term changes in the brain's reward system and in other brain systems as well, which may eventually lead to addiction. Also, with repeated use, tolerance to the cocaine high often develops. Many cocaine abusers say that they try but fail to achieve as much pleasure as they did from their first use. Some users will increase their dose in an attempt to intensify and prolong the euphoria, but this can also increase the risk of adverse psychological or physiological effects.
Batman - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: what would the world be like without drugs? Ivan Montoya: I'm sure there would be
less crime, fewer family problems, less crime, no ER visits for drug
overdoses, and no need to spend money in drug addiction treatments. What a
wonderful world it would be. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: i have a friend name joey and hes a crack
head he even brings crack to school he is more then addicted what should i do to
help him i dont want anything bad to happen to him i really care about him?
Lisa
Onken: Joey is lucky to have a friend who cares about him, and you
can let Joey know that you care about what he is doing to himself. It
might help if you let him know that help is available, and that treatment
can really help (even for someone who is 'more than addicted'). You can
tell Joey about the SAMHSA hotline: 1-800-273-TALK, and you can
let him know where to find treatment programs through the SAMHSA
website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov It must be very hard to watch Joey experiencing such extreme crack addiction. It might help you to talk with other teens in a similar situation as yourself,
visit: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen. Good luck!
TatumMackenzie - Wilson Central
High School, Tennessee: what percent of teenagers use drugs?
Ivan
Montoya:
Well, each year, NIDA sponsors a large survey called Monitoring the
Future. Latest results indicate, for one thing, that marijuana use among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders, which has
shown a consistent decline since the mid-1990s, appears to have leveled off,
with 10.9 percent of eighth graders, 23.9 percent of tenth graders, and 32.4
percent of twelfth graders reporting past-year use. You can look up more
findings and percentages here: http://www.drugabuse.gov/Drugpages/MTF.html kmichelle - Junction City High
School, Oregon: what are the negative affects of diet pills ad
supplements? Nancy
Pilotte: Hi Junction City, you guys have been quite successful in
getting your questions through!That is indeed an interesting question. As you may already know, there are several kinds of diet pills. Some, like Alli, block the absorption of fat. Others, like Meridia and phentermine, are amphetamines that are stimulant-based and act to curb your appetite. The difference between these diet aids and illicit amphetamine is the dose. All amphetamines are anorectic agents, meaning they reduce your appetite.
While diet pills and supplements can be used safely, there are hidden dangers in use of diet pills and supplements. One of the problems with diet pills available over the internet is the possibility of side effects. Some of them can be quite dangerous. Medical testing has shown that the most common side-effects are: nervousness, higher blood pressure, headaches, dry mouth, insomnia and restlessness. In extreme cases, problems such as renal failure, heart attack and stroke can occur and in the worse case scenario: death. Diet pills, especially the stimulant-based ones, have the potential to be highly addictive.
Did you know that every year researchers at the University of Michigan supported by NIDA ask 8th, 10th and 12th graders around the country about their attitudes towards - and use of - drugs? It's the Monitoring the Future Survey, and you can look at the results on the NIDA Web site at http://www.drugabuse.gov/Drugpages/MTF.html
casa grandema - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: How would you tell if your friend is having
a drug problem Richard
Denisco: Terrific question. Some of the physical signs of someone having a drug
problem can be stealing, losing friends, family problems, and physical and
mental problems. There are also questions you can ask your friend or information you may have from interacting with your friend to assess whether or not a they have a drug problem. These do not necessarily indicate that someone is addicted, but answering yes to any of these questions may suggest a developing problem, which could require follow-up with a professional drug treatment specialist. These include:
- Have you ever ridden in a car driven by someone (including yourself) who had been using alcohol or drugs?
- Do you ever use alcohol or drugs to relax, to feel better about yourself, or to fit in?
- Do you ever use alcohol or drugs when you are alone?
- Do you ever forget things you did while using alcohol or drugs?
- Do family or friends ever tell you to cut down on your use of alcohol or drugs?
- Have you ever gotten into trouble while you were using alcohol or drugs?
Supporting someone with a drug abuse problem can be difficult and I would
encourage you to talk to someone. Find a trusted adult like a parent,
other family member, teacher, guidance counselor, parent of another friend and
get support. For more information go to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
1-800-662-HELP
Hope this
helps!
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: If you want to join a sport does Alcohol
afect you? Steve
Grant: The short answer is Yes, alcohol can definitely affect you if want to join a sport; and
not in a good way. Alcohol impairs your judgement and your motor skills,
and your teamates certainly would not want you to be playing at anything
other than your best level during a game. Nobody performs
optimally when intoxicated or while sufferiing the effects of a hung
over. Even outside of playing a sport, drinking alcohol can lead to
trouble with your friends, school work, or even the law. So if you want to
play your best, don't drink. aubraygreen - Theodore Roosevelt
High School, Ohio: What is the most addictive drug? Nancy Pilotte: TR, what's up?This is a great question, but a little complicated to answer. Scientists are reluctant to rank drugs by their addictiveness because there are a number of factors that have to be considered. These include the genes you inherit, the conditions during your prenatal development, the experiences of your early childhood, the parenting style at home, the nurturing quality of your school and neighborhood, the level of stress you are exposed to and any vulnerability to or co-occurence of mental disorders you may have. These can have an impact on whether or not you will become addicted to a drug. So it isn't easy to predict who will become addicted and which drug is riskier. We have a great publication that will give you lots of info on the science of addiction. Check it out online at http://drugabuse.gov/scienceofaddiction/.
A question that we can answer is what is the most frequently used drug. Among the general population age 12 and older, the most frequently used 'drug' is alcohol and the most frequently abused illegal drug is marijuana. More info can be found at www.oas.samhsa.gov/nsduh. Thanks for the question!!
BRWhite - Einstein High School,
Maryland: I've heard that MJ is a "Gateway" drug, what are the
most common drugs that MJ leads to using Ivan Montoya: You are right. There is a
theory that marijuana is considered a 'gateway' drug becuase it may precede
the use of other drugs like cocaine, meth, or heroin. The gateway concept causes a lot of controversy,
is not really settled yet, and could also be applied to nicotine or alcohol. And while it is true that most people who use other
drugs have also used marijuana (and nicotine, alcohol), it is not true that most
marijuana users go on to use other drugs. Moreover, it is important to recognize
that marijuana itself presents significant health risks, including the risk of
addiction. Check this out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana BLAH - Junction City High School,
Oregon: can smoking pot affect my baby Larry Stanford: Yes, it can. Research
has shown that some babies born to women who used marijuana during their pregnancies display responses to visual
stimuli that differed from that of babies that weren't exposed, increased
tremulousness, and a high-pitched cry, which may indicate problems with
neurological development. During the preschool years, marijuana-exposed children
have been observed to perform tasks involving sustained attention and memory
more poorly than nonexposed children do. In the school years, these children are
more likely to exhibit deficits in problem-solving skills, memory, and the
ability to pay attention. abcd - Junction City High School,
Oregon: how much do you have to drink to be addicted Richard Denisco: Alcohol use has different levels, there is problem drinking,
abuse and addiction. When the body is physically addicted the withdrawl is very
painful and brings on 'DTs' seizures and even death. When a person is getting
into a level of problem drinking, it is time to take a look at things before
physical addiction occurs. There are some things you may notice with regard to the person you know that may indicate they drink too much. For instance if the person drinks on a regular basis and this impacts their health, safety (drinks and drives), performance at school, work, interaction with family and/or friends they may have a problem with their drinking. The National Institute Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has a website that might be helpful at: http://rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/QuestionsAnswers/default.asp. For adults, they define low risk drinking as less than 4 'standard' drinks per day and less than 14 per week and adult women less than 3 'standard' drinks per day and 7 per week.
Thomas - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: is marijuana addictive Nancy Pilotte: While there is individual
variability (meaning that it can vary from person to person), the short answer
is Yes! About 1 in 10 people who use marijuana become addicted. When they stop, they experience a
'withdrawal syndrome'--they are irritable, can't sleep, lose weight, and are
anxious, often prompting them to start using again. Whats more--long term
marijuana users themselves report not only poorer educational and job outcomes,
but less life satisfaction and worse mental and physical health compared to
those who don't use marijuana. Check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana for more
info. Thanks for joining in on Chat day! For free downloads and cool videos about drugs and marijuana, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/index.php#downloads and http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Marijuana.html.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what are the effect of a drug addiction
Richard
Denisco: All drugs of abuse - nicotine, cocaine, marijuana, and others - affect the brain's "reward" circuit.
These brain changes drive a person to seek out and use drugs compulsively, despite negative consequences such as stealing, losing friends, family problems, or other physical or mental problems brought on by drug abuse - this is addiction. So a person may start out taking drugs voluntarily, but as time passes and drug use continues, something happens that makes a person go from being a voluntary drug user to a compulsive drug user. It impairs your ability to think clearly, to feel OK without drugs, and to control your behaviors.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Is "light" cigarettes that supposedly have
less tar better than regular cigars? Ivan
Montoya:No, I don't think so. They are equally bad. Check out our blog post: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/nida-news-who-gets-fooled-by-flavors/ hhentze - Junction City High
School, Oregon: Why do some people get silly when they are drunk
but some people get mean and abusive when they are drunk? Steve Grant: Many drugs, not just alcohol, lead to an effect technically refered to as
'disinhibition'. What this means is that you may normally think about
doing something, but you don't actually do it because you know that if you do
it, then there will be bad consequences. For example, if you punch
someone, then they could well punch you back even harder than you punch
them. When you don't do an action you are thinking about, it is called
'inhibition'. Some drugs impair your ability to exert inhibition and
self-control, so you migh do something you wouldn't otherwise do. So
people who get mean and abuse when they are drunk or take drugs may just be
'allowing' themselves to do things that they always wanted to do, but knew
better than to actually do it. PunkyBruster :] - Dixie High
School, Utah: what damage can it do to your baby if you smoke weed
and drink when your about a month pregnant? Larry Stanford:
Thanks for the question - it's a very important one! Many rigorous
scientific studies have shown that exposure to various drugs before birth
can have effects on the developing baby. The substance that has
probably been studied most is alcohol. Health authorities caution that any amount of drinking
during pregnancy may harm a baby. The more a mother drinks, the greater are the
chances that her baby will be adversely affected by alcohol exposure. At the
extreme, babies develop fetal alcohol syndrome, a pattern of birth defects that
include significant changes in the brain that can result in mental retardation,
behavioral problems and neurological problems.
Some babies born to women
who used marijuana during their pregnancies display altered responses to
visual stimuli, increased tremulousness, and a high-pitched cry, which may
indicate problems with neurological development. Exposure to marijuana before
birth has been shown to have a negative effect on problem-solving when the
children become older as well as having effects on their
ability to maintain attention.
For a full research report on
marijuana, see: http://drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/Marijuana/default.html.
philayorkieian2 - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: when you take drugs while you are
pregnant how does it affect the baby when its born? Cora Lee Wetherington: That is an excellent
question and one that is hard to answer with a simple answer. We have lots
of researchers who are investigating that question. Their research is
telling us that there is no safe level of drug use in pregnancy. But,
whether there will be harmful effects on the baby is hard to say because it
depends upon so many factors such as these: when in pregnancy
did the women (girl) begin taking taking drugs? did she use them
throughout pregnancy? which drugs did she use? how often and how
much did she use? Also, research tells us that while there many not be any
obvious negative effects on the baby, there may be some effects down the road as
the child develops and goes to school, such as behavioral problems, including
those that may pose problems for doing well in school, such as the ability to
pay attention and concentrate. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what is in marijuana that gets people high?
Gaya
Dowling:
Marijuana contains a chemical called THC. THC triggers brain cells to release the chemical dopamine. Dopamine makes you feel good - that's the 'high.' But that's just one effectMarijuana can also make you uncoordinated which can make sports difficult; it can affect memory making it hard to remember things you just learned; and it can affect judgment and decision making, causing you to do things you might not do when you are thinking straight - such as getting in a car with someone who's been drinking or is high on marijuana. And marijuana is addictive! It's definitely not worth the risk.
silly goose - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: smoking weed help you concentrate?
Susan
Weiss: Weed messes with your ability to remember what you just
learned. So even if it did help with concentration (which it doesn't),
you'ld likely forget whatever it is that just required
your concentration. biggie boopin B - Junction City
High School, Oregon: what do mushrooms attack in your brain to
cause side effects ? Nancy
Pilotte: Hi JC, good question!The compounds in mushrooms, mostly psylocibin and its relatives, upsets the balance in the serotonergic neurotransmitter system in your brain. Serotonin in particular does a lot in your brain, including helping to build your brain when you are young. Neurotransmitters like serotonin are very carefully regulated in your brain; excesses and deficits can have very profound effects; a lack of serotonin can lead to depression whereas an excess can lead to aggressive behaviors. Have you seen the Sara Bellum Blog? It has all the latest information on drugs and drug abuse, and you can comment on what's written. Check it out at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/
black hawk - Dixie High School,
Utah: ive been addicted to cigarettes for 4 years please can you
give me advice to quit? Ivan
Montoya: You may want to try some of the quitlines available on
the web. Here's a good place to start, http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/: scroll
down to "Trying to Quit?" 3jordan - Junction City High
School, Oregon: How many teenagers died in 2006, from drunk
driving accidents? Brian Marquis: Hi. I checked the CDC website (Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention) and found stats for 2007 -- more than 4,200 teens
in the United States aged 1519 were killed and almost 400,000 were treated in
emergency departments for injuries suffered in motor-vehicle crashes. Take
a look at the fact sheet at http://www.cdc.gov/MotorVehicleSafety/Teen_Drivers/teendrivers_factsheet.html
MonsterRules - Lakeview Middle
School, Michigan: is pot legal in amsterdam? Stephanie Older: Although our insitute
studies the science of drug abuse and addiction--we don't focus on legal or
policy issues--from a quick search of sources, it appears that marijuana is NOT legal in Amsterdam but tolerated by law
enforcement there. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: I have a friend that wants me to help her
stop how would I help her when she not really trying? She is getting worse she
drinking and smoking more. Lisa
Onken: Sometimes people really DO want to stop drinking and
smoking, but they can't stop because they're addicted, and they need
treatment. You can let her know that you care about her, and that if she's
having a hard time stopping on her own, she needs to get some help. If she
can talk to her parents, maybe they can help her get drug addiction
treatment. If she can't talk to her parents, it might help to speak with
another trusted adult. But also, she can call the SAMSHA hotline at
1-800-272-TALK, and she can find treatment programs by going to the SAMHSA
website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Remember, she wouldn't be your friend if you didn't care about her and know that
she is a good person-so try to remember who she is when she's not on drugs and
keep trying to help her through this difficult time in her life. I hope your friend gets the help she needs.
Redward2 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: How does Meth change the brain? Nancy Pilotte: Hi Junction City...you guys
have been active on the chat today!Meth, or methamphetamine, is a stimulant drug that has long-acting effects. It has direct effects on your brain because it can cause the release of dopamine and serotonin, two of the neurotransmitters that are needed to make your brain function correctly. It also has direct effects on your heart, making it race. It can lead to hyperthermia, or the excess production of heat that can be very bad for your body. Hyperthermia can even lead to death. Finally, it has been shown to lead to real brain damage (loss of brain cells) in animals that are given the drug, and the brain damage is usually considered permanent. Have you seen the Sara Bellum Blog? It has all the latest information on drugs and drug abuse, and you can comment on what's written. Check it out at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/.
BoysLikeGirls - Wilson Central High
School, Tennessee: what is the worst drug? What is the worst drug
to be addicted too? Ivan
Montoya: Well.. the worst drug to be addicted is the drug that a
person is addicted to. Not to sound confusing, but in general, any drug of
abuse--whether alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, heroin, etc.--can produce devastating consequences both
for that person and for anyone who cares about him or her. The use of any
drug by adolescents can produce long-term brain changes that can affect
behavior. Better not to start and then you don't risk become
addicted. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: What kind of of brain damge can you get from
cocain? Steve
Grant: We now know that all drugs, not just cocaine, can change the way that brain cells function, and that
those changes can persist for quite some time even after stopping
taking the drug. Amazingly, some of a drug's effects changes can even
change gene function!!!. Some of these changes may revert
back to normal in a day or so, but some can last for months, maybe even
longer. We don't know as much as we should about these long-term effects
of drugs or how long it takes for the changes to return to normal. So,
even though not all drugs 'kill' brain cells, they do change the way the brain
works for a long time. This should be a good enough reason to stay away from
drugs. mcr12 - Dixie High School,
Utah: Is there anything that can help me stop smoking pot
Lisa
Onken: The short answer is-Yes. Given that you're asking
me this question, it sounds like you've had trouble stopping on your own,
but with help from a trained professional you can absolutely stop. In
fact, it is very common for people to need help quitting
drugs. Don't wait another day. Don't wait until you have days or years that have passed you by while in a drugged-out haze. Now that you are ready to stop, the next step is to get help. If you don't feel ready to talk with a trusted adult like your parents or a teacher, call 1-800-273-TALK to talk to someone who can help you or you can find treatment programs by looking at the SAMHSA website at www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov. You should be proud of yourself for asking this question and having the courage to do what it takes to stop!
BLAH - Junction City High School,
Oregon: why do people do drugs when they are upset Richard Denisco: Good question and accurate
observation. When someone is upset they don't like how they feel and want
to change the feeling. Drugs are one way to change how we feel , although only
temporarily. The problem is the reason you are upset is still
there and drugs just prolong dealing with it, and usually make it
worse when we finally get to dealing with it. heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: someone i know has the chrones disease. He had to take
steroids to make him gain weight. he was under the age of 12. Is taking steroids
when you are told by the doctor ok? Nancy
Pilotte: Hi Lakeview,Chrone's Disease is a serious autoimmune disease that makes it difficult to absorb needed nutrients from your intestines. Most people who have it do not feel like eating because it makes them very uncomfortable. So it becomes more important to make your food work more efficiently. A doctor may prescribe a steroid to reduce the inflammation, and small dose of an anabolic steroid to promote weight gain. Steroids do, in fact, have medical uses and can be safe and effective if used according to doctor's orders - they become trouble when they are abused. Want more information on steroids? Visit http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Steroids.html. Good luck to your friend. I hope that he feels better!
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what are opioids? Richard Denisco: Opiates are made from opium, a white liquid in the poppy plant. They're also
referred to as narcotics. Maybe you've heard of drugs called heroin, morphine or codeine. These are examples of opiates.
Opiates can produce a quick, intense feeling of pleasure followed by a sense of
well-being and a calm drowsiness. But they can also become an addiction. If
someone uses opiates again and again, his or her brain is likely to become
dependent on them. Emmanuel - Einstein High
School, Maryland: What chemicals is inside tobacco Gaya Dowling: There are many - actually
about 4000. Nicotine is the main addictive chemical in tobacco but there are many other chemicals like tar,
carbon monoxide, acetaldehyde, and nitrosamines. Tar causes lung cancer,
emphysema, and bronchial diseases. Carbon monoxide causes heart problems, which
is one reason why smokers are at high risk for heart disease. Why would anyone
want to put that stuff in their bodies? DoyleCassie - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: would you stop me from doing drugs if you seen me doing
it? Ivan
Montoya: Well, there is no point in using physical force to stop
someone from using drugs. It is likely that the person may react and want to use
more. If someone is using drugs, I would talk about the harm they're doing to
themselves and give them some scientific facts that might make them
reconsider their choice. However, in the end, it's up to the person to stop
or not. Hopefully, the healthy decision will win out. Take a look at our
teen website: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ 23jordan - Junction City High
School, Oregon: how many pain pills can you take before you
overdose? Richard
Denisco: There is no one number, it depends on the pill. But the
prescribed dose, usually one or two pills is not all that far from an
overdose. That is why more people die of drug overdoses than car accidents in 6
states in the US. Also, if you take more than prescribed the side effects become
very bothersome, such as nausea, sedation, and that always popular drooling.
The bottom line is that although we know what happens to the brain when someone becomes addicted, we can't predict how many times a person must use a drug before becoming addicted. A person's genetic makeup, the genes that make each of us who we are, and the environment each play a role. What we do know is that a person who uses drugs risks becoming addicted, craving the drug despite its potentially devastating consequences.
casa grande BS - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: This 1 time i was smoking pot and my boobs
felt firmer. was it the drugs?? Stephanie
Older: Hi there--we don't have any research to address this.
Sorry! tborland2 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: what do steroids do to the body Nancy Pilotte: Hi Junction City, Your
body produces very small amounts of a lot of steroids, including cholesterol, vitamin D, estrogens,
androgens, and corticosteroids. I am guessing you are most interested
in the androgens, which are anabolic, which affect muscle growth and
muscle strength. If you are male, taking steroids in the amounts required
to enhance performance also turn off your own production of testosterone.
Androgens can reduce body fat, but they can also increase aggressive behavior,
hair growth in odd places, and can have adverse effects on your cardiovascular
system and kidneys. What are some other negative side effects? If you are female, steroids can cause you to stop growing by stimulating closure of the epiphysial cartlige on your long bones, and can deepen your voice permanently. If you are male taking steroids, you run the risk of your testicles shrinking in size, increased breast development, and infertility and maybe develop an increased urge to go shopping (just kidding on that one). Would you like more info on steroids and their effects on the body? Visit http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Steroids.html
You will also find facts, trends, statistics, graphics and reports on steroids on NIDA's Web site: www.steroidabuse.gov
fedex - Dixie High School,
Utah: Should you punish a person that does drug or just talk to
them respectively? Richard
Denisco: This is a good question. People often think that
they can cause people to change their behavior by trying to punish them. But
addiction is a disease and it is like punishing someone for having diabetes. But
both the addict and the diabetic are responsible for their behavior and they may
face consequences for this behavior, but punishing just doesn't work. Talk to
them respectfully and let them know you want to help them. You can start by
asking them to go to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help
24/7. emo-sun - Dixie High School,
Utah: is it possible that because my dad was a big time partyer
that drank and did drugs, that that's why im so messed up now? Kevin Conway: Great question! Kids
with alcoholic or drug-abusing parents are much more likely to try
alcohol/drugs and develop alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for
several interrelated reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts
have an increased risk for childhood behavioral problems, which in turn
increases the the risk of trying alcohol/drugs. Second, children of
alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more opportunities to try alcohol/drugs.
Third, children of alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic
liability for alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s))
which places them at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of
course, most children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop
alcoholism/addiction themselves, so neither genetics nor environment is
'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
potatoes - Dixie High School,
Utah: Is the use of LSD increasing or decreasing in the past three
years? Susan
Weiss: It may be increasing--the National Survey on Drug Use and
Health reported a significant increase in past year use between 2007 and
2008--from 620,000 to 802,000 among persons 12 or older. Also, Monitoring
the Future, NIDA's survey of 8th, 10th, and 12th graders reported a softening of
attitudes (decreased perception of harm) towards LSD use in recent years--often a predictor of increased
use. So, although the rates are still down substantially from peak years,
this is an area of concern that we are watching closely. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Are any drugs okay in moderation
Steve
Grant: Some drugs that can lead to addiction are OK to
take under a doctor's supervision. For example, opioids like Oxycontin or
Vicodin are powerful pain relievers, and are highly beneficial for people who
are in severe pain, such as after an injury
or surgery. But it is critical that a person follows
the doctor's instructions when taking the drug to avoid the risk of drug abuse
and addiction. In 2008, nearly one in ten high school seniors reported the
non-medical use of the prescription pain reliever Vicodin, and one in 20 abused
OxyContin. Abuse of these drugs can be associated with overdose and death,
especially when they are taken at high doses, in non-prescribed routes (e.g.,
snorting or injecting), or in combination with alcohol or other drugs. browe - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: what happens to your brain when you smoke pot?
Stephanie
Older: Short-term effects of marijuana use include euphoria, distorted perceptions, memory
impairment, and difficulty thinking and solving problems. For more on how
marijuana impacts your brain, check out: http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Marijuana.html. casa grande wjn - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: i've had some family members who have done
drugs, such as cocaine, marijuana, meth and others. is there any way this can
happen to me? Kevin
Conway: Great question! Kids with alcoholic or drug-abusing
parents are much more likely to try alcohol/drugs and develop
alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for several interrelated
reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts have an increased risk for
childhood behavioral problems, which in turn increases the the risk of trying
alcohol/drugs. Second, children of alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more
opportunities to try alcohol/drugs. Third, children of
alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic liability for
alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s)) which places them
at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of course, most
children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop alcoholism/addiction themselves,
so neither genetics nor environment is 'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
headonfire99 - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: is getting high once in a while bad Ivan Montoya: Well... people should stay
away from using any illicit substance. The problem is that it's not possible to
predict when a person who is using 'once in a while' might begin to
use more often or in larger amounts, or get physicially addicted. So it's
kind of slippery slope, as they say. Better not to do it at all... Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: If I Have Two Alcoholic Parents I only live
with one Does that mean I am more likely to do it when Im older? If So How Can I
stop myself from doing so? Kevin
Conway: Great question! Kids with alcoholic or drug-abusing
parents are much more likely to try alcohol/drugs and develop
alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for several interrelated
reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts have an increased risk for
childhood behavioral problems, which in turn increases the the risk of trying
alcohol/drugs. Second, children of alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more
opportunities to try alcohol/drugs. Third, children of
alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic liability for
alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s)) which places them
at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of course, most
children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop alcoholism/addiction themselves,
so neither genetics nor environment is 'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
whiteninja - Dixie High School,
Utah: what is the chance of getting addicted to drugs because of
you of your parents previous life style Kevin Conway: Great question! Kids
with alcoholic or drug-abusing parents are much more likely to try
alcohol/drugs and develop alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for
several interrelated reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts
have an increased risk for childhood behavioral problems, which in turn
increases the the risk of trying alcohol/drugs. Second, children of
alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more opportunities to try alcohol/drugs.
Third, children of alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic
liability for alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s))
which places them at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of
course, most children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop
alcoholism/addiction themselves, so neither genetics nor environment is
'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: If Both of my parents are alcoholics, Does
That Make me more suseptable to doing it as a get older? Kevin Conway: Great question! Kids
with alcoholic or drug-abusing parents are much more likely to try
alcohol/drugs and develop alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for
several interrelated reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts
have an increased risk for childhood behavioral problems, which in turn
increases the the risk of trying alcohol/drugs. Second, children of
alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more opportunities to try alcohol/drugs.
Third, children of alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic
liability for alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s))
which places them at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of
course, most children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop
alcoholism/addiction themselves, so neither genetics nor environment is
'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
m-baller - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: if your family is around drugs what are the odds
you will get into this situation Kevin
Conway: Great question! Kids with alcoholic or drug-abusing
parents are much more likely to try alcohol/drugs and develop
alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for several interrelated
reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts have an increased risk for
childhood behavioral problems, which in turn increases the the risk of trying
alcohol/drugs. Second, children of alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more
opportunities to try alcohol/drugs. Third, children of
alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic liability for
alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s)) which places them
at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of course, most
children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop alcoholism/addiction themselves,
so neither genetics nor environment is 'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
casa grandesab - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: I live with both of my parents and both are
alcoholics and drug addicts. They sometimes brib me to drink and get "high" with
them. What should I do? Ivan
Montoya: Wow... That is tough... Of course, the best thing to do
is to try hard to stay away from drugs and alcohol, which is hard since both of your parents are
addicts. That increases your risk, but it doesn't mean you will end
up being addicted. It's important that you find things in life
that you enjoy like sports, music, books, etc., which can help you to stay
away from drugs. You probably know of many famous (or even
non-famous) people who grew up in environments surrounded by drugs and
alcohol, and yet they never became addicts. You can look at them as role
models and see what you can learn from their lives, which could apply to
you. Gab - South Middle School, West
Virginia: Why do famous sport players and actors do drugs?
Stephanie
Older: For the same reasons others do drugs--to feel good, to feel
better, to perform better and because of curiosity or a perception that drugs
are "cool." Bubbles - South Middle School, West
Virginia: What would happen if a pregnant mother overdosed on
drugs? Cora Lee
Wetherington: If a pregnant women overdoses on drugs, it is
important for her to receive medical attention immediately to prevent
the overdose from having a negative effect on her pregnancy. Whether or
not the overdose hurts her or her baby depends upon a lot of
factors...including what drugs or drug combinations she was using, how long she
was using them and the drug dosages. A woman who is pregnant should not be using
any drugs at all. It is not safe for the baby. stefanie - Junction City High
School, Oregon: do you smoke and when yes, why? Larry Stanford: No, I don't smoke. I
did at one time, but I quit joints - New Egypt High School, New
Jersey: what if my friend is pregnat and oes drugs and drinks
what will that do for the kid Larry
Stanford: Thanks for the question - it's a very important one! Many rigorous
scientific studies have shown that exposure to various drugs before birth
can lead to very serious problems. The substance that has
probably been studied most is alcohol. Health authorities caution that any amount of drinking
during pregnancy may harm a baby. The more a mother drinks, the greater are the
chances that her baby will be adversely affected by alcohol exposure. At the
extreme, babies develop fetal alcohol syndrome, a pattern of birth defects that
include significant changes in the brain that can result in mental retardation,
behavioral problems and neurological problems.Babies born to mothers that use opiates can go through withdrawal at birth, as well as having low birth weight and possibly developmental delays. Very recent research has shown that babies born to mothers that smoke are more irritable than babies born to mothers that don't smoke. In short, exposures to many drugs can have serious effects on a baby.
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: because of drugs is the percentage a greater
risk of being alone when your older Steve
Grant: People who abuse drugs or develop an addiction often end up
hurting their friends and family because the drug slowly takes over and
becomes the most important thing in the addict's life. When a person
starts stealing from their friends and family to buy more drug, or becomes
abusive and hurtful over and over again, then no one, not parents nor children,
not husband nor wife, will tolerate having the person around. So, over
time, their social circle is likely to get smaller and smaller, and unless they
realize their substance abuse problem and decide to seek help, they can
indeed end up being alone as they grow older. =) - Dixie High School,
Utah: What are some physical signs of drug addiction? Richard Denisco: It depends on the drug
that the person is addicted to. For example, weight loss, muscle tension,
nausea, blurred vision. Others are slurred speech, lack of coordination,
euphoria, and dizziness. Also, other negative consequences can be stealing,
losing friends, family problems, and other problems.
PropofolWith the death of Michael Jackson, you may have heard the drug Propofol mentioned in the news. Propofol is a common type of anesthetic - a drug that doctors use to 'put people to sleep' for surgery. It is given to patients through an 'intravenous drip,' (called an 'IV' for short) that goes through a special needle into a patient's arm, allowing the medicine to go directly into the patient's bloodstream.
Doctors who give patients propofol are generally known as 'anesthesiologists' and have special training. These experts set up the IV, make sure the patient is 'sleeping' comfortably, and then carefully watch the patient's vital signs (like heart rate, breathing, etc.) while the surgeon operates on the patient. Doctors like using propofol because it leaves the body very quickly, which allows the patient to wake up after surgery more rapidly, without bad side effects. So propofol can be a useful drug when it's given by people who are properly trained, but like many prescription drugs, it can be very harmful if used inappropriately.
Amidat - Benjamin Tasker Middle
School, Maryland: What is the major chemical in drugs that causes
addiction? Gaya
Dowling: Great question. Different drugs are made up of different chemicals. But all
drugs of abuse affect the brain and either directly or indirectly, they
increase the activity of the chemical dopamine in the brain's reward centers,
which is what makes people feel good. However, with continued drug use, the
brain starts to adapt to the good feeling, so more drug is needed to achieve it.
This causes people to become dependent on the drug, to feel bad when it is not
in their system, and to seek and take the drug compulsively--without even
thinking about it.
To learn more, check out 'The Science of Addiction' at http://www.nida.nih.gov/scienceofaddiction/.
SalviaSalvia (salvia divinorum) is an herb common to southern Mexico and Central and South America. It is used in traditional spiritual practices of native people in those parts of the world to produce 'mystical' experiences. Traditionally, salvia has been ingested by chewing fresh leaves or by drinking their extracted juices. But the dried leaves of Salvia can also be smoked as a joint, consumed in water pipes or vaporized and inhaled.
The main active ingredient in salvia, acts at what are known as kappa opioid receptors in the brain. These receptors differ from those activated by the more commonly known opioids, such as heroin and morphine. Although salvia currently is not a drug regulated by the Controlled Substances Act, several states and countries have passed legislation to regulate its use. The Drug Enforcement Agency has listed salvia as a drug of concern and is considering classifying it as a Schedule I drug - meaning it has a high potential for abuse, and no established therapeutic benefits.
People who abuse salvia generally experience hallucinations including psychedelic-like changes in visual perception, mood and body sensations, emotional swings, feelings of detachment, and importantly, a highly modified perception of external reality and the self. The long-term effects of salvia abuse have not been studied.
Brain recovery: Can
the brain recover after you stop using drugs? Probably, yes, but that depends on
many things, like how young somebody is when they start. We know from scientific
research that the earlier you start, the more likely you are to have drug and
other problems, for example, in school or with your family. It is therefore best
to never start; however, if you do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you
will be to avoid addiction and the harmful brain changes that lead to
it. Risk of addiction:
There is a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted and why, and after
how much drug exposure. We do know that each person is different, so it's a
little like playing 'Russian Roulette' if you choose to use drugs. But, if you
do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you will be to avoid addiction and the
harmful brain changes that lead to it. spt0617 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: My friend has been cutting her self. And I am very
scared. She has also been having mood swings...what does it mean?? Lisa Onken: It is understandable that you
would be afraid for your friend. It is great that you care enough to write
to me, and you should know that many people work through (successfully) the
kinds of problems that your friend is experiencing. Your friend
sounds like she needs immediate help, and needs to speak with a mental
health professional. To start, she can call the SAMHSA hot line at
1-800-272-TALK to speak with a caring individual. Best wishes to you
and your friend! Batty - Dixie High School,
Utah: if one of your freinds is smoking and you really wanna help
them wut should you do to help them without looseing ther freindship?
Ivan
Montoya: I know it's hard but you may want to try to tell them
that using drugs is not 'cool' anymore. For example, cigarette smoking was
'fashionable' in the 60's and 70's but right now most people don't want
be near someone who is smoking. So,as science continues to reveal more
about how drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, etc., can cause many medical and
psychological problems, you may want to share that info with your
friend--hey, it's worth the risk to try and help them, right?. You can find
information about the effects of different drugs on our teen website at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: If both your parents do drugs, what is the
possibility of you following in their footsteps? Kevin Conway: Great question! Kids
with alcoholic or drug-abusing parents are much more likely to try
alcohol/drugs and develop alcoholism/drug addiction. This occurs for
several interrelated reasons. First, children of alcoholics/addicts
have an increased risk for childhood behavioral problems, which in turn
increases the the risk of trying alcohol/drugs. Second, children of
alcoholics/addicts are exposed to more opportunities to try alcohol/drugs.
Third, children of alcoholics/alcoholics may inherit a genetic
liability for alcoholism/addiction (from their alcoholic/addicted parent(s))
which places them at increased risk of developing alcoholism/addiction. Of
course, most children of alcoholics/addicts do not develop
alcoholism/addiction themselves, so neither genetics nor environment is
'destiny'. So, the short answer is .... there is an increased risk of developing drug and alcohol problems, but this can be avoided entirely by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol. And if drugs or alcohol have already been tried, then don't use either again.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using drugs, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Batty - Dixie High School,
Utah: what drug has killed the most amount of people within this
past year? Cindy
Miner: Tobacco! More than 400,000 deaths per year can be
attributed to smoking. Drug Testing in
Schools: Some schools have adopted a random student drug testing policy
hoping it will: (1) serve as a deterrent and give students a reason to resist
peer pressure to take drugs; (2) identify adolescents who have started using
drugs so that parents and counselors can intervene early; and (3) identify
adolescents who already have drug problems, so they can be referred for
treatment. It is not intended to be punitive, but rather to prevent drug use or
promote early intervention. The Supreme Court has ruled drug testing as legal
for any students participating in extracurricular activities. Currently, there
is insufficient research in this area to show whether random drug testing is an
effective approach. Wind River High - Wind River High
School, Wyoming: Many People say that marijuanna use is not
addicting or habit forming. Is there statistics out there that show that it is?
Susan
Weiss: Yes--in one national survey from about 15 years ago, it was
found that 9.1% of those who've tried marijuana become addicted. The numbers go way up among
daily smokers -- 25-50%, and there are other factors as well that determine
whether someone becomes addicted--e.g. how old was the person when they
started to use; are there any other emotional/mental health problems
(depression, anxiety) that the person is suffering from, and is there a family
history of addiction. Also, we now know that there is a withdrawal
syndrome associated with stopping marijuana use among heavy users. They
feel irritable, anxious, have trouble sleeping and experience strong
cravings. This can last for a few weeks--making it very difficult to quit
without help. vvhs - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: If you did drugs earlier in life, can it effect your
children? Cora Lee
Wetherington: That is an excellent question, and one for which there has been very little research. Currently, we do not have evidence that if a girl does drugs earlier in life, it can affect children she may have later in life. However, another question you may consider is whether her drug use has a long-term effect on her general health such that it may have implications for her having a healthy pregnancy. These are important things for girls to think about when they consider using drugs.
When it comes to boys using drugs and whether it may affect children he may father later in life, again we do not have research on this question except for some preliminary animal data showing that paternal drug use can have a negative impact, both on physical growth and learning. So, this is something for boys to think about who hope to someday become a father.
rock12 - Rockville High School,
Maryland: If a teenager was taking drugs, can it affect him/her
educationally? Ivan
Montoya: Yes and the type of the effect is going to depend on the
type of drug. For example, it is known that marijuana can affect memory, concentration and perception,
which makes it very difficult for someone to study and learn. Also,
long-term use of certain drugs is clearly associated with low school
performance and often with early dropout. Visit our teen website for lots more
info and some fun stuff to click on: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: What does cocain do to you when you use it
for a while? Steve
Grant: Long-term use of cocaine has a range of effects, most of them bad for your
health. One of the worst effects is on the cardiovascular
system. Cocaine raises your blood pressure and can increase the risk of a
heart attack. This is not to dismiss the effects on the brain. In addition
to the brain changes that underlie addiction, long-term cocaine use can increase
the risk of seizures. As an old blues song goes "Cocaine will kill
you, but they don't say when" Gateway: Is marijuana a gateway drug? The gateway concept is one that
generates a lot of controversy, is not yet scientifically settled, and could
also be applied to nicotine or alcohol. And, while it is true that most people who use other
drugs have also used marijuana (and nicotine, alcohol), it is not true that most
marijuana users go on to use other drugs. Moreover, it is important to recognize
that marijuana itself presents significant health risks, including the risk of
addiction. Needle Exchange:
Scientific data show that syringe/needle exchange programs (SEPs/NEPs), as part
of comprehensive HIV prevention, can be effective in reducing the spread of
infectious diseases and getting hard-to-reach populations into drug treatment.
- Note: Needle exchange programs are often thought to be part of a harm-reduction approach, but the term harm-reduction in itself has different meanings depending on context of use. NIDA does not view harm-reduction as a scientific term for any particular approach to addressing addiction.
Needle Exchange:
Scientific data show that syringe/needle exchange programs (SEPs/NEPs), as part
of comprehensive HIV prevention, can be effective in reducing the spread of
infectious diseases and getting hard-to-reach populations into drug treatment.
- Note: Needle exchange programs are often thought to be part of a harm-reduction approach, but the term harm-reduction in itself has different meanings depending on context of use. NIDA does not view harm-reduction as a scientific term for any particular approach to addressing addiction.
Loveme! - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: Is it good to detach yourself from somone that has a real
serious problem, because its hard to care so much about someone you love that is
hurting themselfs that at times its just better to say you dont care?
Richard
Denisco: There are several reasons why people start doing drugs
including as a way of coping with depression or loss. Drugs make people
feel good and high sometimes but afterward they may feel much worse.
That's the unpredictable and dangerous part of drug abuse. If someone you
care about is using drugs then you can try to be supportive by listening to them
and not being judgmental. There is a site you can go to that can also help: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or you or they can
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help
24/7.It's important for you to know that a person may start out taking drugs voluntarily, but as time passes and drug use continues, something happens that makes a person go from being a voluntary drug user to a compulsive drug user. Why? Because the continued use of drugs changes how your brain functions. It impairs your ability to think clearly, to feel OK without drugs, and to control your behaviors. These all contribute to the compulsive drug seeking and use that is addiction. So while the initial decision to take drugs is a choice for some, a physical need replaces that choice.
Marijuana and mental illness: Marijuana use has been
associated with a number of mental conditions, including schizophrenia
(psychosis), depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation or attempts. Currently,
the strongest evidence is for the link between marijuana and psychosis.
Marijuana intoxication can, though rarely, produce a reversible psychosis, and
it may be a causal agent in development of schizophrenia in vulnerable
individuals. Data on causality are weak, although many studies have found an
association present in certain groups: young users, frequent users, those with
cannabis dependence, etc. Marijuana may be a means of self-medicating an
existing or sub-clinical illness; it may be a marker of other problems (abuse,
trauma); it may contribute to the development or worsening of the mental
illness; or it may reflect combinations of the above. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Whats the difference between medical
marijuana and street marijuana? Ivan
Montoya: Actually, in principle, there is no chemical difference
because they both contain THC (the active ingredient in marijuana). However, it is easier to control the potency, or
strength of medical marijuana, and also the possible
contaminents. Still, marijuana for medical use is not currently approved by
the Food and Drug Administration for treating any medical illness.
Scientists are working to develop new medications that take advantage of
the potential benefits of THC for a variety of symptoms and diseases,
including pain, obesity, and addiction. A pill form of THC is already
available for certain conditions, such as nausea associated with cancer
chemotherapy and weight loss in patients with AIDS. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Why do sports require players to take drug
tests? Steve
Grant: Some drugs can increase muscle mass or increase endurance,
so athletes who take those drugs would have an unfair advantage over atheletes
who played fair and got stronger by working out and practicing for a long time.
So, drug tests are necessary to make sure that athletes play by the rules
and don't get an unfair advantage by taking drugs. ADHD: Attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood
disorders and can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Symptoms include
difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling
behavior, and hyperactivity (over-activity). It is often treated with stimulant
medications, which have been shown to be safe and effective when taken as
prescribed. Currently, the evidence suggests that stimulant medications do not
increase the risk of substance abuse in children with ADHD, and may even be
protective. Gary - Martinsville High
School, Virginia: Can marijuana be used for medical uses?
Stephanie
Older: Marijuana for medical use has been in the news a lot lately,
although it is not currently approved by the FDA for treating any medical
illness. There are recognized medical benefits to some of the active ingredients
in marijuana, and scientists are making use of their knowledge about those
ingredients, and the body systems that they effect, in order to develop new
medications for a variety of symptoms and diseases , including pain, obesity,
and addiction. A pill form of THC (an active ingredient in marijuana) is already
available for certain conditions, such as nausea associated with cancer
chemotherapy and weight loss in patients with AIDS. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: if you grow your own weed is it as bad as
smoking weed that you bought from some guy Steve Grant: The short answer is yes.
The active chemicals in marijuana are called cannabinoids (such as THC,
tetrahydrocannabinol). Different marijuana plants contain different
proportions of THC and other cannabinoids, but they all contain these
chemicals. The only difference is that you never know what other 'green
stuff' this 'guy' may have added or whether he (or whoever grew the
marijuana) used pesticides, fertilizers, toxins, or any other poisons
which could still be on the plant material that you just bought. karen - Parkdale High
School, Maryland: How can I help a teenager quit smoking
marajuana? Kevin
Conway:
Researchers are testing different ways to help marijuana users quit. Currently, no medications exist for
treating marijuana addiction. Treatment programs focus on behavioral therapies.
A number of programs are designed specifically to help teenagers who are
abusers.
When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If someone you know is using marijuana, encourage him or her to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. There are also anonymous resources, such as the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) .
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) is a crisis hotline that can help with a lot of issues, not just suicide. For example, anyone who feels sad, hopeless, or suicidal; family and friends who are concerned about a loved one; or anyone interested in mental health treatment referrals can call this Lifeline. Callers are connected with a professional nearby who will talk with them about what they're feeling or concerns for other family and friends.
In addition, the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) - offered by the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance
Abuse Treatment - refers callers to treatment facilities, support groups, and
other local organizations that can provide help for their specific need. You can
also locate treatment centers in your state by going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Best of
luck!
qwerty - middlebury union high
school, Vermont: Is marijuana smoke as bad for your lungs as
tobacco smoke? Stephanie
Older:
Hi there--good question. This is a tough one! On one hand, it is
true that marijuana tar contains about 50% higher concentration of
chemicals linked to lung cancer, compared with tobacco tar, and that smoking marijuana deposits four times
more tar in the lungs than smoking an equivalent amount of tobacco. This is
because marijuana smokers hold the smoke in their lungs longer than tobacco
smokers do, allowing more time for extra fine particles to be deposited in the
lungs. As a result, the lungs of marijuana smokers show some of the same
pre-cancerous changes as the lungs of tobacco smokers, and marijuana smokers
suffer some of the same respiratory problems as cigarette smokers--i.e., chronic
cough, bronchitis, etc. Despite this, the verdict is still out on whether
smoking marijuana increases the risk of developing lung cancer later in life.
I can tell you however, that both the nicotine in tobacco and the THC in cannabis are addictive and that the smoke you inhale from both is bad for your lungs. The smoke in cigarettes, made from either tobacco or marijuana, contains literally thousands of compounds, many of which are toxic.
For more information about smoking, go to: http://www.smoking.drugabuse.gov/ For more information about marijuana, go to http://www.marijuana-info.org/
BabyGurl - Benjamin Tasker Middle
School, Maryland: How can cocain kill you Brian Marquis: Thanks for your
question. Cocaine usually makes the user feel euphoric and energetic, but
also increases body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. Users risk
heart attacks, respiratory failure, strokes, seizures, abdominal pain, and
nausea. In rare cases, sudden death can occur on the first use of cocaine or
unexpectedly afterwards. You can find more info about cocaine on our web
pages. Go to http://www.drugabuse.gov/, click on the
Drugs of Abuse drop down menu and select cocaine. To raise visibility on issues of
addiction and treatment among adolescents, NIDA has developed a number of useful
teen-oriented sites, including:http://www.backtoschool.drugabuse.gov/, providing a source of free information about the latest science-based drug abuse facts, publications, and teaching materials for parents, teachers and students; http://www.hiv.drugabuse.gov/, with information for young people, parents and teachers about the link between drug abuse and HIV infection, with links to the latest research findings and news updates, and http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/, a Website for teens with information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities.
In addition, the Office of National Drug Control Policy provides additional information specifically for young people. Go to: http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/, for scientific information about illegal drugs and their effects, and http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/, to find an interactive drug prevention site for youth.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Isn't it sometimes better to not take
prescribed medicines? Susan
Weiss: This is really a question to discuss with your
doctor. If you were prescribed a medication, then presumably you
needed it for something, and there could be consequences to not taking
it. On the other hand, all medicines have risks and benefits and it could
be that after you talk to your physician, you will jointly decide that the risks
outweigh the benefits for you. But I would caution you strongly not to
make this decision on your own. Questioning authority is good--ignoring it
may be at your peril. Batty - Dixie High School,
Utah: what type of drug is salvia? Cindy Miner: Salvia (salvia
divinorum) is an herb common to southern Mexico and Central and South
America. It is used in traditional spiritual practices of native people in those
parts of the world to produce 'mystical' experiences. Traditionally, salvia has
been ingested by chewing fresh leaves or by drinking their extracted juices. But
the dried leaves of Salvia can also be smoked as a joint, consumed in
water pipes or vaporized and inhaled.The main active ingredient in salvia, acts at what are known as kappa opioid receptors in the brain. These receptors differ from those activated by the more commonly known opioids, such as heroin and morphine. Although salvia currently is not a drug regulated by the Controlled Substances Act, several states and countries have passed legislation to regulate its use. The Drug Enforcement Agency has listed salvia as a drug of concern and is considering classifying it as a Schedule I drug - meaning it has a high potential for abuse, and no established therapeutic benefits.
People who abuse salvia generally experience hallucinations including psychedelic-like changes in visual perception, mood and body sensations, emotional swings, feelings of detachment, and importantly, a highly modified perception of external reality and the self. The long-term effects of salvia abuse have not been studied.
NIDA is frequently asked whether alcohol is a drug, and where to find information about alcohol
abuse. There is another government agency that studies alcohol's effects. For
information on alcohol, go to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse
& Alcoholism Web site at: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/.Similarly, information about smoking and prevention can be found at http://www.smokefree.gov/.
Lenora - Parkdale High
School, Maryland: Is there any connection between paranoid
schizophrenia or other mental illness and marijuana or other drug use? If so,
what are some signs/symptoms? Brian
Marquis: Hello and thanks for your question. Many
people who regularly abuse drugs are also diagnosed with mental disorders and
vice versa.
When two or more disorders or illnesses occur in the same person, they are called comorbid. The interactions between the illnesses can affect both. We have a fact sheet about co-morbidity that will give you more answers. Go to: http://www.drugabuse.gov/Infofacts/Comorbidity.html. Our longer report about co-morbidity is at http://www.drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/comorbidity/
To find general information on
substance abuse prevention and treatment, three good places to
begin include the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration's Web site, http://www.samhsa.gov/; NIDA InfoFacts,
containing results of the annual 'Monitoring the Future' survey on youth trends
in drug use; and the Drug Abuse Warning Network, with
statistics on drug-related hospital emergency department visits and deaths at http://dawninfo.samhsa.gov/. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: my dad has diabeties and he drinks alot to
take stress off him but how can i get him to stop drinking so that he can live
longer and would be able to make it to my wedding? Lisa Onken: You can let your dad know of
your concerns, and you can tell him that you spoke with an expert at the
National Institute on Drug Abuse who told you that there is help available, and
that treatment can really work. You can also let him know where to find
help, by looking at the SAMHSA website at www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov. Your dad is lucky
to have such a caring kid! Also, you are not alone-there are many people who love someone who has a drug or alcohol abuse problem. Visit http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen to get support from teens like you.
Anders - Dixie High School,
Utah: I recently stopped my cousin from drinking alcohol and
smoking pot by informing her parents. she did not find out that i told her
parents and im the person she trusts most in the world and she has told me that
she still intends on returning to pot and alcohol when she can. should i inform
her parents of her intentions or let her choose her own fate??? the last time i
let someone close to me choose their own fate they fell off a cliff and died
because he was smoking pot. Kevin
Conway: Don't give up! If you really think that your friend
has an alcohol or drug problem, then you should do what you can to
help her. Try talking directly to her about her problem, and then see if
you and your friend can discuss this with somebody you can trust (parent,
teacher) to provide your friend with the help he/she needs. I think you
should trust your instincts that you should reach out to help your friend, and I
applaud you for that! For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: I am a sophomore in high school and my dad
is very concerned about me when i go to partys thanks to the date rape pill how
can i assure him i am making good decisions and being safe? Kevin Conway: Your dad is right to be concerned, and you are wise to ask the question. Below,
I provide some information about date-rape drugs, and some ways to protect
yourself. By arming yourself with this knowledge, hopefully you (and your
dad) might feel much safer. Date-rape drugs are drugs that are sometimes used to assist a sexual assault. Sexual assault is any type of sexual activity that a person does not agree to. It can include touching that is not okay; putting something into the vagina; sexual intercourse; rape; and attempted rape. These drugs are powerful and dangerous. They can be slipped into your drink when you are not looking. The drugs often have no color, smell, or taste, so you can't tell if you are being drugged. The drugs can make you become weak and confused - or even pass out - so that you are unable to refuse sex or defend yourself. If you are drugged, you might not remember what happened while you were drugged. Date rape drugs are used on both females and males.
How can I protect myself from being a victim?
- Don't accept drinks from other people.
- Open containers yourself.
- Keep your drink with you at all times, even when you go to the bathroom.
- Don't share drinks.
- Don't drink from punch bowls or other common, open containers. They may already have drugs in them.
- If someone offers to get you a drink from a bar or at a party, go with the person to order your drink. Watch the drink being poured and carry it yourself.
- Don't drink anything that tastes or smells strange. Sometimes, GHB tastes salty.
- Have a nondrinking friend with you to make sure nothing happens.
- If you realize you left your drink unattended, pour it out.
- If you feel drunk and haven't drunk any alcohol - or, if you feel like the effects of drinking alcohol are stronger than usual - get help right away.
For more information see:
http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/clubdrugs.html
To find general information on
substance abuse prevention and treatment, three good places to
begin include the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration's Web site, http://www.samhsa.gov/; NIDA InfoFacts,
containing results of the annual 'Monitoring the Future' survey on youth trends
in drug use; and the Drug Abuse Warning Network, with
statistics on drug-related hospital emergency department visits and deaths at http://dawninfo.samhsa.gov/. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how do drugs effect someones motorskills
Steve
Grant: Good question, but the answer depends on the specific
drugs. Some drugs (alcohol, sedatives, marijuana) slow down your motor responses, while other drugs
(coke, meth, ecstasy)increase your reaction speed. Most drugs decrease
motor agility. Perhaps the most relevant effect of drugs on a motor skill
has to do with their impact on driving performance. While some drugs will
increase alertness, even those drugs will impair some aspects of driving
ability. Even drugs that can be legally prescribed by a doctor often
have a warning on the label that cautions against taking it and driving or
operating heavy machinery. spt0617 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: What does it mean if your friend is cutting themselfs?
Does it mean they are on drugs or drinking or does it mean they just want
attention or what?? Lisa
Onken: It likely means your friend is in emotional pain and
it definitely means they need help. They may or may not be on drugs or
drinking, but cutting is rarely a way just to get more attention. It would
be great if your friend could speak to a mental health
professional. If your friend could speak to his or her
parents, they might help their child get professional help. If
not, your friend could try talking to another adult who they
trust, like a teacher. Or, they could contact a mental health hotline
at: 1-800-273-TALK. dixie smurf123 - Dixie High School,
Utah: do u think old people do drugs? Susan Weiss: You know that is something we
are watching out for. The baby boomer generation had a history of drug use
when they were young, and has lived in a 'quick fix' world of taking medications
for whatever ails you (as have younger generations). So we are interested
in whether they will return to using illicit drugs, or become abusers of
prescription drugs as they age and retire from their jobs and
responsibilities. This could be highly problematic--especially if they
have other health conditions and/or are taking medications that can interact
with drugs or alcohol. At NIDA we continue to focus most of our efforts
on young people--trying to prevent problems before they take hold, but older
people are on our radar too, and they may need specific treatment and prevention
interventions geared towards their motivations for drug use and its
consequences. Frequently Asked Questions
about Drug Abuse and Prevention: To find a substance abuse treatment
facility locator, call 1-800-662-HELP or go to http://www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ anytime, 24-hours a day,
7 days a week. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: are flavored cigars as bad as regular
cigars? Ivan
Montoya: Yes. They are equally bad. Check out our blog post: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/nida-news-who-gets-fooled-by-flavors/ To find a wealth of research and
facts on the science of addiction and treatment, please go
to:National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
301-443-1124
http://www.drugabuse.gov/
By clicking on the link 'Students and Young Adults' from NIDA's home page you will be able to access resources tailored for students and young adults , whether you are in middle school and doing research on the effects of marijuana use, or high school student looking to find out about drug use and HIV.
If you need help, you will also find a link there to the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at http://www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
You will also find facts, trends, statistics, graphics and reports on specific drugs on NIDA's Web sites: http://www.smoking.drugabuse.gov/
http://www.marijuana-info.org/
http://www.clubdrugs.gov/
http://www.steroidabuse.gov/
inhalants
http://www.inhalants.drugabuse.gov
joints - New Egypt High School, New
Jersey: my friend had an overdose and almost died. He still does
drugs. What can i do to help him stop? Richard
Denisco: These brain changes drive a person to seek out and
use drugs compulsively, despite negative consequences such as stealing, losing
friends, family problems, or other physical or mental problems brought on by
drug abuse - this is addiction. Unfortunately, even almost dying does not
stop someone from using drugs. If addiction were a logical thing and not a brain
disease this would not be the case. It's difficult and frustrating at times
when you're trying to help them. Remember it is a disease and not just a
question of free will or making a decision. To find help try going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where
you can find private and confidential help 24/7. Jay Jmnz - Casa Grande Union High
School, Arizona: Why does marijuana make me hungry? Nancy Pilotte: That is a great
question! As you probably know, the brain interprets the effects of marijuana. Marijuana interactions with specific proteins
called receptors and can affect the parts of the brain that have those
receptors. The reason that marijuana makes you hungry is that those
receptors are located on neurons (nerve cells in the brain) that make up the
feeding centers in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. Thus, when
the receptors are occupied by deltaTHC, it activates those centers and makes you
feel hungry. By the way, contrary to popular belief, most teenagers do not use marijuana. Among students surveyed in a yearly national survey, only about one in seven 10th graders report they are current marijuana users (which means they used marijuana within the past month) and fewer than one in five high school seniors is a current marijuana user. Would you like more information on how to live above the influence of marijuana? Visit http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ and http://www.abovetheinfluence.com. Also, if you would like to begin steps to stop smoking marijuana and you find that you are having trouble, visit http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/. You can find information on treatment centers in your area.
Not all drinks are the same. 12 oz.
of beer with 5% alcohol is the same as 5 oz. of wine with 12% alcohol or 1.5
oz. of hard liquor with 40% alcohol. (see the web site http://www.thecoolspot.gov/) PunkyBruster :] - Dixie High
School, Utah: this guy in my class said that weed has never killed
anyone before, and people say all the time that it's not that bad.. then why is
it illegal? is it really harmful? Steve
Grant: It is probably true that no one has ever died of a marijuana overdose (at least compared to drugs like cocaine, methamphetatmine or opioids like heroin
or Oxycontin). But that does is not the same as saying that Marijuana has
never killed anyone: Using marijuana can lead to people getting hurt and
even die, for example if they drive recklessly or engage in other risky
behaviors that they would not do if they were not intoxicated (like having
unprotected sex with a stranger). You see, marijuana alters your perceptions and
judgement. Although some people like the effects of using
marijuana, marijuana makes other users feel anxious and
agitated. In addition, marijuana can impair your memory, which
can hurt your academic performance. At the present time because
marijuana can impair your life and there is no approved medical use for
marijuana, the risks are considered to outweigh any potential benefits, so
marijuana has been illegal in the United States for nearly 100
years.You can find out more about marijuana at:
http://www.drugabuse.gov/MarijBroch/teens/
Drug and alcohol abuse can harm your judgment. Teens who are intoxicated
can make bad decisions that lead to unsafe sex - and that puts them at risk for
getting HIV. To Learn the Link between drug abuse and HIV check out http://hiv.drugabuse.gov/ casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: why is it hard for people to stay off drugs?
Ivan
Montoya: It is hard for people who were once addicted to drugs,
because they can see things in the environment that remind them of their drug
use, or experience stress, which can trigger cravings, even if it's been a
long while since the person has used. It is much easier not to
start. Still, I understand the power of peer pressure. So the key is
to learn to stay away from people who use drugs, to be your own person and not
cave in to peer pressure. Check out this link to download cools ways
to express yourself: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/index.php#downloads
Try this one, too, for strategies: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/index.php#downloads Did you know you can send us
questions about drugs anytime of the day on our Teen Web site? http://teens.drugabuse.gov/. It might take a few days, because
our scientists are pretty busy - but real questions will get real
answers! Squishy Camel - Skaneateles High
School, New York: If your parents have done drugs before you were
born does that mean that they're in your system too? Cora Lee Wetherington: If a women uses
drugs while she is pregnant, that does not necessarily mean that the baby will
be born with the drugs in its system. It depends upon how recently the mom
used the drug before the baby was born and what the drug was. Some drugs,
especially opiates, can lead to a withdrawal reaction in the baby, reactions
that can be medically treated. Of course, use of drugs during pregnancy is always a bad idea because they could have an impact on the baby depending upon the drug and how much drug the mom has used during pregnancy. But, the good news is that the sooner a women stops using drugs after she learns she is pregnancy, the less likely there will be harm to the baby.
Connect and Interact. Free downloads
and cool videos about drugs. http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/index.php#downloads Did you know that every year
researchers at the University of Michigan supported by NIDA ask 8th, 10th and
12th graders around the country about their attitudes towards - and use of - drugs?
It's the Monitoring the Future Survey, and you can look at the results on the
NIDA Web site at http://www.drugabuse.gov/Drugpages/MTF.html Have you seen the Sara Bellum Blog?
It has all the latest information on drugs and drug abuse, and you can comment
on what's written. Check it out at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/ Did you know that vehicle accidents
are the leading cause of death among young people age 15 to 24? Evidence from
both real and simulated driving studies indicates that marijuana can negatively affect a driver's attentiveness,
perception of time and speed, and the ability to draw on information obtained
from past experiences. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Is it unhealthy to take medications
prescribed to you? Richard
Denisco: In general no. All medications have the potential for
side effects, but the benefits usually out weigh the risks. With illicit drugs
or when using prescription medications to get high, then you get the risks
and side effects but no benefits. If you take the medications as prescribed and
let your doctor know any problems you may be having then medications are safe. Did you know that Inhalants can damage brain cells by preventing them from
receiving enough oxygen? casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: What does steroids do to you? Brian Marquis: Anabolic-androgenic steroids are usually synthetic substances similar to the male
sex hormone testosterone. They do have legitimate medical uses. Sometimes
doctors prescribe them to help people with certain kinds of anemia and men who
don't produce enough testosterone on their own. But doctors never prescribe
anabolic steroids to young, healthy people to help them build muscles. Without a
prescription from a doctor, anabolic steroids are illegal.Major effects of steroid abuse can include liver damage; jaundice; fluid retention; high blood pressure; increases in 'bad' cholesterol. Also, males risk shrinking of the testicles, baldness, breast development, and infertility. Females risk growth of facial hair, menstrual changes, male-pattern baldness, and deepened voice. Teens risk permanently stunted height, accelerated puberty changes, and severe acne. All users, but particularly those who inject the drug, risk infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. If you go to our teen web site, you can find out more about steroids -- http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/.
Some people think 'weed' is harmless,
but scientific studies show that marijuana affects memory, judgment, and perception. If you're
high on marijuana, you are more likely to make mistakes that could embarrass or
even hurt you, and affect your performance in school. SCLions089 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: Someone I know may have an addiction to
alcohol. She has suffered the consequences three times, but it seems to have no
effect on her. What can I do to help the situation? Lisa Onken: You can let her know that you
care that she is hurting herself. And you can let her know (you
can tell her that I told you) that there is help available, and
that treatment can work! Let her know about the SAMHSA
hotline: 1-800-273-TALK, and you can let her know where to find treatment
programs through the SAMHSA website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov It's very hard to be friends with someone when they are making poor choices, but you are not alone in caring for someone with a drug use problem. Visit this website for support from other teens going through what you are: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2007 nearly 13,000 people were killed in
alcohol-impaired driving crashes. People who smoke marijuana often develop the same kinds of breathing problems
that cigarette smokers have: coughing and wheezing. They tend to have more chest
colds than nonusers. They are also at greater risk of getting lung infections
like pneumonia. Guess what - Tobacco smoke causes cancer of the mouth, esophagus, larynx,
blood, lungs, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder, and cervix. purple - Dixie High School,
Utah: how dangerous is salvia? Stephanie Older: People who abuse salvia
experience hallucinations including psychedelic-like changes in visual
perception, mood and body sensations, emotional swings, feelings of detachment,
and importantly, a highly modified perception of external reality and the self.
The long-term effects of salvia abuse have not been studied. Did you know that drugs can
contribute to lots of health problems, including lung and cardiovascular
disease, stroke, cancer, and mental disorders? Drugs are chemicals. They work in the
brain by tapping into the brain's communication system and interfering with the
way nerve cells normally send, receive, and process
information. In 2007, nearly 288,000 people
entering drug treatment programs reported marijuana as their primary drug of abuse. Wildcat924 - Presque Isle High
School, Maine: What are the affects of being around people doing
inhalents? Could you breathe in enough to get high too from just being around
them? Stephanie
Older: Hi--this is a great question, and unfortunately I don't
know of any research on the effects of 'second-hand' inhalant use.
However, I can tell you that if sufficient amounts of inhalants are inhaled, it can cause a loss of sensation,
and even unconsciousness. Irreversible effects can be hearing loss, limb
spasms, central nervous system or brain damage, or bone marrow damage. Sniffing
high concentrations of inhalants may result in death from heart failure or
suffocation (inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs). To be clear--we know
inhalants can have these effects on primary users--there isn't research on
whether the same effects can occur from being around people who do
inhalants. However, it's probably not a good idea! xpillowpantsx - Dixie High School,
Utah: If I do drugs am I a horrible person? I'll answer for you...
yes. Lisa
Onken: I disagree with you. Doing drugs doesn't mean you are
a horrible person. Under the influence of drugs good people make very
bad choices. The fact that you say this makes me think that you do
drugs, that you feel badly about yourself, and that you need someone
to help you with this. Please call this number:
1-800-273-TALK. It is the SAMHSA hot line and it is confidential, and I am
sure someone can help you. You deserve to be helped. Good
luck. casa grande mb - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: can ecstasy be provided in such amount that
can cause the body to collapsed?? Ivan
Montoya: Oh yeah... ecstasy overdose is a serious medical
emergency. People who overdose with ecstasy can not only collapse but also can
die from it. It is known that the overdose is associated with increase in body
temperature (hyperthermia), rapid heartbeat, hypertension, heart
attacks, brain toxicity, etc. So, that is why the treatment of
ecstasy overdose is usually in the emergency room. Nearly all drugs of abuse directly or
indirectly target the brain's reward system by flooding the circuit with
dopamine, a brain chemical that makes us feel good. Did you know that risk of drug abuse
increases during times of transition, such as changing schools, moving, or
divorce? D.Jones - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: Is weed really as bad as people say it is Susan Weiss: Well, it depends on what they
are saying--it impairs learning, which is bad if you are a student; it affects
judgment, which can make you do risky things like driving under the influence of
weed or alcohol or the two combined; and it can be addictive.
About 9% of people who use marijuana may become addicted and about 25-50% of daily users
become addicted. Also, as a teen your brain is still developing (until the
mid 20s) and marijuana may affect this keeping you from reaching your full
potential. heyy123 - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: Doing drugs can harm your future but can it harm your
loved ones to? Richard
Denisco: They can harm you and your future, and everyone that uses
drugs affects about 10 people in a very harmful way. The loved ones suffer the
most, the person using drugs is high and does not feel the suffering it causes,
but the loved ones go through the pain stone cold sober, and they feel all the
pain. gretchennail - Junction City High
School, Oregon: If you drink to the point of passing out or puking
once a week are you an alcoholic? Ivan
Montoya: Well... at the very least, that person is likely to
become an alcoholic. If someone is drinking to the point of getting sick,
that means that is abuse or binge drinking--and it's really harmful for your
brain...see http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/binge-drinking-matters%e2%80%94to-your-brain/. That
person should try to get help for his or her alcohol problem because you never know when the binge
drinking could lead to loss of consciousness, with devastating
consequences. The definition of drug addiction: a
chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug
seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. dixie smurf123 - Dixie High School,
Utah: what does cocaine do to you? other than kill u????
Brian
Marquis: Cocaine usually makes the user feel euphoric and energetic, but
also increases body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. Users risk
heart attacks, respiratory failure, strokes, seizures, abdominal pain, and
nausea. In rare cases, sudden death can occur on the first use of cocaine or
unexpectedly afterwards. You can find more info about cocaine on our web
pages. Go to http://www.drugabuse.gov/, click on the
Drugs of Abuse drop down menu and select cocaine. Did you know that tobacco is linked to an estimated 440,000 deaths per
year? Scientists have studied how long THC
(delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) - an active chemical in marijuana - stays in the body. When marijuana is smoked, the THC
is rapidly absorbed by fatty tissues in various organs. Generally, small amounts
of THC can be detected by standard urine testing methods several days after a
smoking session. In heavy users, however, traces can sometimes be detected for
weeks after the last use of marijuana. 11797229 - Rockville High School,
Maryland: hi- if you've smoked for about 20 years is your lung
dark and black? Nancy
Pilotte: The answer to that question depends on how
often you've smoked during those 20 years, and what you smoked. The
longer and more frequent the use, the more likely that there is damage.
You physician or treatment provider may be able to assess how well your lungs
work and can make suggestions to help you stop smoking. The good news is
that quitting (or cutting down significantly) can allow your lungs to
recover. And when you recover, you can breathe better, things will smell
better to you, your breath will smell better, and food will be
tastier. You will also reduce your risk of getting lung cancer, emphysema,
or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Did you know that teens
are smoking less than they used to? In fact, NIDA's Monitoring the Future Survey
has found that cigarette smoking rates among youth are at historically low
levels. Smoking by 12th graders in the month prior to the survey fell by 30%
between 2001 and 2008. For more information about smoking, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
Did you know that the part of the
brain that helps you make good decisions is the last to develop? The prefrontal
cortex - the front of the brain - doesn't fully mature until you are in your 20's.
Drugs affect parts of the brain that are still developing - so treat your brain
well, and reach your full potential. kevin - Einstein High
School, Maryland: i think drugs are stupid but what's so great
about being high that turns people into addicts? Steve Grant: Good for you ! Being
straight-edged is the best. There are many reasons why people take
drugs. Some take drugs to stop feeling bad about themselves,
to lessen the effects of stress, or to not feel scared, to be more
socialable. Others take drugs because they simply want to experience new or
different feelings, or because they think taking drugs is necessary to be part
of a group.That being said, there is a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted and why, and after how much drug exposure. We do know that each person is different, so it's a little like playing 'Russian Roulette' if you choose to use drugs. But, if you do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you will be to avoid addiction and the harmful brain changes that lead to it. Risk of addiction: There is a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted and why, and after how much drug exposure.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: my brother died from using meth and i cant
get over it so i have started it and i cant stop but i dont want to die. what
can i do? Lisa
Onken: It is so sad to hear about your brother and that in
addition to your grief, you now have the same problem that contributed to his
death. It' s not too late for you to get the help you need.
You have taken a very important first step by writing to me, and I'm glad that you did because there is treatment available to help you cope with your loss and to help you stop using. Please call the SAMSHA crisis line at 1-800-272-TALK, and to find a treatment program near you: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
Call them today. I am rooting for you!
Did you know that teens are smoking
less than they used to? In fact, NIDA's Monitoring the Future Survey has found
that cigarette smoking rates among youth are at historically low levels. Smoking
by 12th graders in the month prior to the survey fell by 30% between 2001 and
2008. tobiaswankanobi - Junction City
High School, Oregon: if you get high in a room and there is a cat
in there ho would it act and how much pot would it take to make it "high"
Joni
Rutter: My guess is that cats don't like smoke, and therefore will
hiss at you blow smoke in its face. They might prefer catnip, which is a
perennial herb that is a distant cousin to marijuana. Contrary to popular belief, most
teenagers do not use marijuana. Among students surveyed in a yearly national survey,
only about one in seven 10th graders report they are current marijuana users
(which means they used marijuana within the past month). Fewer than one in five
high school seniors is a current marijuana user. NIDA research indicates that in
2008, 12 percent of high school seniors admitted to driving under the influence
of marijuana in the two weeks prior to the survey. Drugs can alter perception,
attention, balance, coordination and other abilities needed for safe
driving. NIDA research indicates that in 2006,
more than 10 percent of high school seniors admitted to driving under the
influence of marijuana in the two weeks prior to the survey. Drugs can alter
perception, cognition, attention, balance, coordination and other faculties
needed for safe driving. In 2008, nearly one in ten high
school seniors reported the non-medical use of the prescription pain reliever
Vicodin, and one in 20 abused OxyContin. Abuse of these drugs can be associated
with overdose and death, especially when they are taken at high doses, in
non-prescribed routes (e.g., snorting or injecting), or in combination with alcohol or other drugs. Teens are taking better care of
themselves: illicit drug use declined by 24% from 2001 to
2008. banger92 - Port Chester High
School, New York: Has anyone died smoking marijuana? Susan Weiss: Yes, although its rare.
One study found that smoking marijuana increases the risk of a heart attack almost 5
times within the first hour after smoking--which can be lethal if you are
vulnerable. But its more likely to be lethal through its role in
automobile accidents. Marijuana on its own impairs driving ability, and
makes driving under the influence of alcohol even worse. So it can be a causal or contributing
factor to fatal motor vehicle accidents. Anzar - Dixie High School,
Utah: if you're using drugs and you talk to a school couselor,
does the law require them to report you? Richard Denisco: This is a good but
difficult question since each area in the country is different. In GENERAL, they
can get you help without notifying legal authorities. If you want to talk to
someone, and you know/respect your counselor then I would ask them in general
what the law is and then talk with them. Don't let this stand in the way of
talking to someone! You can also try going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where
you can find private and confidential help 24/7. Dr. Cora Lee
Wetherington is now available to answer your questions. Dr.
Wetherington serves as NIDA's coordinator for research aimed at promoting the
study of women and sex and gender differences into all areas of drug abuse. Dr.
Wetherington also oversees a program of extramural research focusing on a
variety of animal and human laboratory areas, including vulnerability to drug
abuse, the behavioral effects of exposure to drugs during lifespan development,
and sex and gender differences and issues unique to females. She has two
children (both in college), two black & white cats, and a boxer, and
particularly enjoys gardening, reading, and trying new
restaurants. xprixprix - Einstein High School,
Maryland: what does carcinogen mean? Nancy Pilotte: A carcinogen is a chemical
that can cause cancer. One of the reasons that cigarettes are so dangerous
is that they are made up of a lot of different chemicals that come not only from
the tobacco leaf, but also from manufactured additives
designed to make them more appealing to the smoker. Did you know that teens
are smoking less than they used to? In fact, NIDA's Monitoring the Future Survey
has found that cigarette smoking rates among youth are at historically low
levels. Smoking by 12th graders in the month prior to the survey fell by 30%
between 2001 and 2008. For more information about smoking, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
Evvette - Benjamin Tasker Middle
School, Maryland: what is the youngest age you can get addicted to
drugs at? Joni
Rutter: Hi Benjamin Tasker,Research shows that drug use often starts in the teen years. You might have heard this, but here's something you may not have heard. Scientific research shows that the younger you are when you start using drugs, the more likely you are to get addicted to drugs and suffer more health related problems. Doing drugs can also cause problems with friends, in sports, and in school.
Let's face it - when someone tells us not to do something, that sometimes makes it seem more exciting. But drugs can really do some not-so-exciting things to your body. NIDA researchers discovered that drugs can literally change the way your brain works. And since your own brain won't finish growing until you're 25, you probably don't want to mess with that process by doing drugs. Keep the questions coming!!
Amidat - Benjamin Tasker Middle
School, Maryland: Why are illegal drugs used for testing,
medications etc. if they have so many negative side effects? Ivan Montoya: The purpose of those studies
is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medications designed to
treat people who are addicted to illegal drugs. This testing
occurs under medical supervision with controlled amounts of the drug.
Scientists are trying to learn how particular medications work
in people who use drugs, so they can help them quit their drug use. These
studies are only done in those who already use drugs. They could
never be conducted in people who don't or haven't used drugs. That would
be unethical. casagrande girl - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: I have a friend, well she does drugs, and
drinks at times! How do I tell her parents? Even if I do tell them, they may not
Believe me? How will they handle it? Im Scared if i do tell anyone i would lose
that friend. I wouldnt want to hang around someone trying to kill them self,
just so they can have a "High". If it were an other friend i would break it off,
but thats not the case. I really need to help her. Who should i talk to first?
can you Answer my question? Kevin
Conway: If you think that your friend has an alcohol or drug problem, then you should do what you can to
help him. Try talking directly to your friend about his problem, and then
see if you and your friend can discuss this with somebody you can trust
(parent, teacher) to provide your friend with the help he/she needs. I
think you should trust your instincts that you should reach out to help your
friend, and I applaud you for that!For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/
EL guruuu..!!! - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: spring wood high school....Houston Tx..::how can i
tell my family that im consuming drugs??? Richard Denisco: Do you want to tell them
to get help? If so then tell them perhaps with the help of your family doctor, a
councilor from school, or the parent of a friend who has gone through it with
their kids. That might make it easier, but if you have a good relationship they
will just want to help you. They really just want the best for you. If you need
some more advice try going to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
calling 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help
24/7. kevin - Einstein High
School, Maryland: Can addictiveness to tobacco become hereditary?
For example can a pregnant woman addicted to tobacco pass it on to her child?
Joni
Rutter: Hi Einstein,Good question. We do know that tobacco addiction has a genetic cause-- in fact, any form of drug abuse has a strong heriditary component (meaning it 'runs in families'). Scientists estimate that genetic factors account for about 50 percent of a person's risk of becoming addicted. Scientists have even identified variations in particular certain genes that are linked to an individual having a higher risk of developing drug addiction.
But that doesn't mean that your child is doomed to a life of bad breath, a smoker's cough and yellow nails and teeth! Even if an individual has these 'risk genes', addiction can be entirely avoided if drugs are not used. The other 50 percent of the risk is due to the environment--for example, if you smoke while you are pregnant, the chemicals in the smoke may have non-genetic effects that can increase the risk of the child to become addicted to drugs, or even worse health conseqeunces. But, once the child is born, other environmental factors, like if your child grows up and takes good care of themselves, go to school, hang out with friends who don't drink or use drugs, and are active (like playing sports) can increase their chances of having a good, healthy and long, life--drug free.
For additional information on cigarettes, see: http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/tobacco.html. You can also check out NIDA's Website for teens. It contains information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities. http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov
Anadrol, oxandrin, dianabol,
winstrol, decadurabolin, and equipoise are types of:- anabolic steroids
- club drugs
- inhalants
- amphetamines
kid - Junction City High School,
Oregon: is heroine worse than meth??? Steve Grant: That is a very important
question. Both Heroin
and methamphetamine are highly addictive and very
harmful to the point that taking to much can kill you, so I would
hesitate to say that one is worse than the other. Best to stay away
from them both.To raise visibility on issues of addiction and treatment among adolescents, NIDA has developed a number of useful teen-oriented sites, including:
www.backtoschool.drugabuse.gov, providing a source of free information about the latest science-based drug abuse facts, publications, and teaching materials for parents, teachers and students; www.hiv.drugabuse.gov, with information for young people, parents and teachers about the link between drug abuse and HIV infection, with links to the latest research findings and news updates, and www.teens.drugabuse.gov, a Website for teens with information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities.
In addition, the Office of National Drug Control Policy provides additional information specifically for young people. Go to: www.abovetheinfluence.com, for scientific information about illegal drugs and their effects, and www.abovetheinfluence.com, to find an interactive drug prevention site for youth.
BALLERINA BABEE - Rockville High
School, Maryland: How are alcohol and drugs different?
Nancy
Pilotte: That is a really great question! NIDA is frequently
asked whether alcohol is a drug, and where to find information about alcohol
abuse. There is another government agency that studies alcohol's effects. For
information on alcohol, go to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse
& Alcoholism Web site at: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/.We know that all drugs of abuse and alcohol have the same effect: they all release the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, and this chemical is thought by many to be responsible for the positive feelings you get after you take a drug. But there are many differences. The most important one may be that all drugs of abuse except for alcohol bind to specific targets in the brain. That means that cocaine binds to a different protein target than heroin does. But they ultimately all interact, directly or indirectly, with dopamine.
Another important similarity is that both drug and alcohol abuse can harm your judgment. Teens who are intoxicated can make bad decisions that lead to unsafe sex - and that puts them at risk for getting HIV. To Learn the Link between drug abuse and HIV check out http://hiv.drugabuse.gov/
Valium (also known as
diazepam) and Xanax (also known as alprazolam) are types of:- benzodiazepines
- central nervous system depressants
- prescriptions drugs
- all of the above
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: whats the best way to stay off drugs?
Lisa
Onken: There are some key things that you can do to stay
off drugs. Three of the big ones are: 1) avoid situations in
which drug use is possible and instead do activities that are enjoyable
and drug-free; 2) hangout with people that don't use drugs; and
3) say 'no thanks' when offered drugs.If you are in recovery you know all too well that drugs cause many more problems than they solve and keeping yourself clean can be a day to day or minute to minute fight. But it is a fight you can win. Just because someone has the urge to use drugs, it is important for that person to know that having an urge doesn't mean needing to use, and that urges do pass. But if someone is having a hard time staying off drugs, it is very important that they get help. Remember-Treatment works!
Treatment can be found through this website: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
23jordan - Junction City High
School, Oregon: what happens to your brain if you use marijuana
every few days? Steve
Grant: Great question. The chemicals in marijuana that gets you high are called cannabinoids, the best
known of which is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Cannabinoids are very
soluble in fat (lipds), and as a result when you use marijuana a certain amount
of cannabinoids ends up being stored in fat cells. The more you use
marijuana, the more cannabinoids build up in your body. So even if you
stop using marijuana, cannabinoids can stay in your body for a long time
afterwards and slowly get released into your blood. There may not be
enough for you to feel 'high', but that doesn't mean that the cannabinoids are
not affecting your body and brain. In particular, if you have to get a
drug test, you may test positive for marijuana even several days after last
using it.You can find out more about marijuana at:
http://www.drugabuse.gov/MarijBroch/teens/
Concerta (also known as
methylphenidate) is:- an opioid
- safe to use without a prescription
- a prescription stimulant
- an antidepressant
kevin - Einstein High
School, Maryland: what is emphysema? Richard Denisco: Good question, it's a lung
disease that most often occurs because of smoking. It takes many years to
develop and results in the destruction of lung tissue. The person is usually
thin and pink in complexion despite not having enough oxygen. At the end, the
person can't get rid of the carbon dioxide that the body makes and it feels like
you can't get enough air. Emphysema can also occur because of genetic diseases
that destroy the lung tissue, but this is much less frequent than tobacco. Emphysema is also a type of COPD or Chronic
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and you might hear that term also. Redward2 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: My father smokes and sometimes in the house. how
long would it take for second hand smoke to begin harming me? Ivan Montoya: That a great question and
unfortunately we don't know the answer. However, we know from brain imaging
studies that small doses of nicotine (like the one inhaled during secondhand smoking)
can rev up the brain receptors associated with nicotine effects.
Therefore, it appears that even small doses of nicotine can have some effects. Prescription pain relievers
such as Vicodin and OxyContin are considered:- stimulants
- opioids
- tranquilizers
- hallucinogens
iluvmyblankie - Watertown
Alternative Learning Center, Wisconsin: why can useing drugs lead
to prostution? Kevin
Conway: Great question! People who are addicted to drugs
will do just about anything to obtain and use drugs. Prostitution is
one way for some people to earn money to buy drugs, or to exchange sex for
drugs. And research shows that, among prostitutes, drug abuse is
very common. For more information see: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/
A drug user develops
'tolerance' for a specific drug, which means he or she:- needs more of the drug to get the same effect
- needs less of the drug to get the same effect
- never experiences a 'high' again
- feels 'high' all of the time
jared,chase,jt - Dixie High School,
Utah: i think my friend jared is on steroids. how can i help him
Richard
Denisco: This is a question many people face when people they
care about start doing drugs. I would try to get him help, bu going to:
www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where
you can find private and confidential help 24/7.You can also provide support bu listening to him. You can help him, but not make him do anything. And just because he does not stop, does not mean that he does not value your friendship. Friendship alone can not treat drug abuse just like it can not treat heart disease. But it's great to have a friend go through the process with you. So good luck. Try checking out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_ster1.php#what_are_they for more info on steroid abuse.
SCLions071 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: Is it common for people to get high of
glue? Because I know you can, but I don't know if it even happens that much
Susan
Weiss: People do get high on different types of inhalants--mostly young people because they are readily
available. In fact the rates of inhalant use are typically highest in
8th graders compared to 10th and 12th graders. NIDA's Monitoring the
Future Study found that 8.9% of 8th graders, 5.9% of 10th graders, and 3.8%
of 12th graders had abused inhalants at least once in the year prior to being
surveyed. For more information on this topic, please see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php joints - New Egypt High School, New
Jersey: how do i stop my friends from doing drugs everyday
Ivan
Montoya: I know it's hard but you may want to try to tell them
that using drugs is not 'cool' anymore. For example, cigarette smoking was
'fashionable' in the 60's and 70's but right now most people don't want
be near someone who is smoking. So,as science continues to reveal more
about how drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, etc., can cause many medical and
psychological problems, you may want to share that info with your
friend--hey, it's worth the risk to try and help them, right?. You can find
information about the effects of different drugs on our teen website at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/. Kookiesnia - Einstein High School,
Maryland: will there be any birth effects if you were on crack and
you didn't know you were pregnat? Joni
Rutter: Hi Einstein,First, using drugs is a bad idea. If you're using drugs and you're pregnant, that is an even worse idea! Drug use during pregnancy can cause harm to the developing baby's brain and organs. The best thing to do is stop using drugs once you find out you are pregnant and get help. There is still a VERY GOOD chance you will have a normal, healthy baby. For more information on the effects of cocaine and crack during pregnancy, see http://www.drugabuse.gov/tib/prenatal.html.
I'm not sure of what type of drug you are taking, but we do know that babies born to mothers who use cocaine during pregnancy can be smaller at birth, are more likely to be premature (born early) and may go through withdrawal from cocaine following birth. These factors that can put them at risk of cognitive (example, learning and memory) disadvantages later in life. With proper treatment, however they can recover significantly. What we don't know, however, is if children born to mothers that used cocaine during pregnancy are at greater risk of becoming addicted to cocaine as they grow older. If you're interestied in getting more information on cocaine and also the consequences of prenatal drug use, please see: http://www.drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/cocaine/treatment.html.
adam fo shizzle - Rockville High
School, Maryland: ohhh hey there what happens if you eat cocain
Nancy
Pilotte: That is a tough one to answer because it seems that very
few people eat cocaine. It is usually snorted, inhaled (as in crack), or
injected. That would lead one to think that cocaine taken orally has
little effect, but it probably depends on how much you take. We know that
body packers (who transport relatively large volumes of illegal
substances in their bodies) get very sick or die if the bag containing the drug
breaks. If the drug is cocaine, it can make your heart stop.
For more information about different drugs, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/.
Halo - Dixie High School,
Utah: What kills your brain cells more drugs or playing video
games? Stephanie
Older: Hi there. Good question. Currently, there isn't
enough research to answer this. Because video games are so popular
and there are so many questions about what their impact is, it's an area ripe
for research. Steroid abusers may become
aggressive because the drug:- causes acne
- clogs arteries
- affects the brain's limbic system
- makes users thirsty
joshmcfather - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: how can drugs effect physical
activity in sports? Kevin
Conway: Great question! It depends on the type of drug
used. But, for many commonly abused drugs, research shows that regular
drug use can interfere with sports by decreasing concentration, increasing
fatigue, decreasing or increasing appetite, and reducing reaction time.
Plus, the use of drugs can result in other complications (poor school
performance, trouble with police, family strain) that can interfere with your
ability engage in sports. It's better to avoid using any drugs!For more information see:
http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/
The human brain weighs
about:- 2 ounces
- 1 pound
- 3 pounds
- 10 pounds
Although the harmful health
effects can last a lifetime, the 'high' caused by inhalants lasts just:- an hour
- a day
- a week
- a few minutes
misscurious - Rockville High
School, Maryland: Can your body ever get used to drugs? Meaning
will they stop affecting you. Nancy
Pilotte: That is a really good question. As you probably
know, medicines are only effective for a certain length of time, and then you
have to take another dose. Part of that has to do with the kinetics of the
drug in your body, or how long it will last before it is excreted. But
another side to this is that many drugs lose their effectiveness if you keep
taking them, a condition we call 'tolerance.' A person is becoming
tolerant to drugs when they take the same dose of the same drug more frequently
to get the same effect as they got at first. For example, if you take a
decongestant for a cold over several days, the effective time becomes shorter
and shorter. Similarly, if you take opiate medications to control pain,
you may need to take more to achieve the same level of pain control. In
2008, nearly one in ten high school seniors reported the non-medical use of the
prescription pain reliever Vicodin, and one in 20 abused OxyContin. Abuse of
these drugs can be associated with overdose and death, especially when they are
taken at high doses, in non-prescribed routes (e.g., snorting or injecting), or
in combination with alcohol or other drugs. For more information about drugs, check out http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/.
vvhs girl - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: Well how do you help someone that wants to kill
them self? Stephanie
Older: This is a hard situation to be in--to see a friend going down a
dangerous path or suffering, and not being sure what you can do to help. First,
let your friend know that someone cares about him or her. Let him/her know
you are concerned (without being judgmental) and that there are people to
talk with in confidence. Your friend may be more open to talk to a
trusted adult or a medical professional if he/she understands it's
in private. And, here's a resource you or your friend
can call that IS anonymous--the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-TALK. Best of luck to you. =) - Dixie High School,
Utah: Is weed addictive? Larry
Stanford: Thanks for the question! The answer is yes.
Long-term marijuana use leads to addiction in some people. That is, they
cannot control their urges to seek out and use marijuana, even though it
negatively affects their family relationships, school performance, and
recreational activities. In addition, some frequent, heavy marijuana users
develop "tolerance" to its effects. This means they need larger and larger
amounts of marijuana to get the same desired effects as they used to get from
smaller amounts.For information on marijuana written especially for teens, see: http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/teens_marijuana_brochure.pdf.
How many chemicals does
cigarette smoke contain?- 100
- 400
- 1,000
- 4,000
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Is it better to smoke "light" ciggarettes or
regular ciggarettes? Ivan
Montoya: The so-called 'light' cigarettes have less nicotine than the regular cigarettes, but contain the same
amount of other toxic substances present in a regular cigarette. If fact, it has
been reported that 'light' cigarette smokers tend to smoke more and take deeper
puffs to make up for the lower nicotine. Therefore, they may end up
inhaling more toxins. Flavored cigarettes aren't any better...check it out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/?s=nicotine. noiseless - Watertown Alternative
Learning Center, Wisconsin: Are prescription amphetamines such as
Ritalin, Vyvanse, Adderol, or others the same as those sold on the street? If
not, what's the difference? Susan
Weiss: Not sure I can tell you what's being sold on the
streets--but I certainly wouldn't trust that your getting what you think
you are. We know from our National Surveys that people are abusing
stimulants prescribed for other people--but most report getting them from
friends and relatives--either knowingingly or not (e.g., stealing from the
medicine cabinet). Taking a prescription drug that is not prescribed for
you can be dangerous, even if it is a medicine. Doctors prescribe them for
a specific purpose, and knowing the medical history of their patient to
determine the risks and appropriate dosages. For more information on
this topic, please check out http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/prescription.html Kathryn - Lima Central Catholic
High School, Ohio: If you drink as a teenager, what are the
chances of you becoming an alcolholic when you are older, as an adult?
Kevin
Conway: Great question! Research on the
risk factors for alcoholism shows that early use of alcohol increases the risk of alcoholism. So,
drinking as a teenager increases the risk of alcoholism. But for
alcoholism to develop, the person must persistently use alcohol.
The majority of alcohol users do not drink persistently and do not become
alcoholic.For more information see:
http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: How do you say no Lisa Onken: Learning to say 'no' is a
skill, and like any other skill it becomes easier when you practice it.
Whether you practice with a friend or family member or just in front of the
mirror it makes it easier when you are in the actual situation to say 'no
thanks.' Friends or peers that continue to pressure you, even after you've said
no-well, you may need to reconsider whether or not you really want to
hangout with people that don't listen to you or respect your
choices.To learn more about all the reasons why saying no is the right move visit: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/
Ecstasy is
normally:- inhaled
- injected
- swallowed
- smoked
P.I.L - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: which is more addicting to teens, meth or marijuana?
Steve
Grant: That is a very important question. Neither drug is
harmless, and so I would hesitate to say that one is more addicting than the
other. Best to stay away from them both.To raise visibility on issues of
addiction and treatment among adolescents, NIDA has developed a number of useful
teen-oriented sites, including:http://www.backtoschool.drugabuse.gov/, providing a source of free information about the latest science-based drug abuse facts, publications, and teaching materials for parents, teachers and students; http://www.hiv.drugabuse.gov/, with information for young people, parents and teachers about the link between drug abuse and HIV infection, with links to the latest research findings and news updates, and http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/, a Website for teens with information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities.
In addition, the Office of National Drug Control Policy provides additional information specifically for young people. Go to: http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/, for scientific information about illegal drugs and their effects, and http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/, to find an interactive drug prevention site for youth.
billy - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: What do you do if you see a drug dealer?
Ivan
Montoya: Well, you should report it to an adult as soon as
possible. Drug dealers are the 'carriers' of the drug use epidemic, like
the mosquitos that carry malaria. Drug dealers care about money, not about
the harm that drugs cause to everyone. So reporting them is a good thing. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: My mom is in rehab my dad is dead my bros
are in jail and my sis is a prostetute. What do I do? Richard Denisco: Sounds like life has dealt
you some difficult blows and for that I'm truly sorry. There are several
ways to get support for all the challenges you face. You might try
confiding in a trusted adult like a school guidance counselor or parent of a
friend. There is a hotline that provides support on lots of issues.
You can call 1-900-273-TALK and find someone 24-7 available to talk with you and
offer support. The NIDA website offers information about drug use and
treatment and you can access it at: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_brain2.php#deal
.I hope this information has been helpful. Even though it can be difficult continue trying to find help and support. Remember you are a young person with a unique contribution to make in this world. We need your energy, intelligence, creativity, and gifts.
Cowboys pride!! - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how do drugs kill brain cells? Steve Grant: Great question, but there is
no simple answer. Alcohol has been shown to kill cells, and ecstasy has been
shown to destroy a specific type of neurons in monkeys. But, many drugs don't
actually kill brain cells, they don't need to, because they can still
alter the way brain cells works. These effects can persist even after
the drug is gone from the body. But some drugs do interfere with
the basic functions of cells so that the cell eventually
dies. For example, methamphetamine is thought to kill brain cells by
producing a chemically reactive form of oxygen called oxygen
radicals. These oxygen radicals act at the cellular level to literally
burn up the cell from the inside. Ouch! sydney - Cashmere High School,
Washington: what are some major effects that meth has on the body
Nancy
Pilotte: Meth, or methamphetamine, is a stimulant drug that has long-acting
effects. It has direct effects on your brain because it can cause the release
of dopamine and serotonin, two of the neurotransmitters that are needed to
make your brain function correctly. It also has direct effects on your
heart, making it race. It can lead to hyperthermia, or the excess
production of heat that can be very bad for your body. Hyperthermia can
even lead to death. Finally, it has been shown to lead to real brain
damage (loss of brain cells) in animals that are given the drug, and the brain
damage is usually considered permanent. Have you seen the Sara Bellum
Blog? It has all the latest information on drugs and drug abuse, and you can
comment on what's written. Check it out at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/. Do bidis, hand-rolled
cigarettes from India, contain more or less nicotine than regular cigarettes?- less
- more
- the same
- bidis don't contain nicotine
carter12 - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: if all my family smoked , would i be
affected? Joni
Rutter: Great question, Randolph Clay!It's possible that you could be affected. You could be at a higher risk of smoking later in your life. Drug abuse and alcoholism have strong heriditary components (meaning it 'runs in families'). Scientists estimate that genetic factors account for about 50 percent of a person's risk of becoming addicted. Scientists have even identified variations in particular certain genes that are linked to an individual having a higher risk of developing drug addiction.
BUT WAIT!!! This doesn't mean that you are doomed to a life of chain smoking, yellow fingernails and teeth! Even if an individual has these 'risk genes', addiction can be entirely avoided if drugs are not used. Plus, the other 50 percent of the risk is due to the environment--like if you hang around friends who use drugs, or your home environment is difficult. So, an individual can also decrease their risk by taking care of themselves, going to school, hanging out with friends who don't drink or use drugs, and being active (like playing sports).
Congratulations, you have total control over whether or not you become addicted! If you've already started to smoke, I hope you choose to kick the butts! Check out NIDA's Website for teens. It contains information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities. http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov
Girls who abuse steroids may:- grow excessive body hair
- lose weight
- develop enlarged breasts
- grow taller
SCLions088 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: I know a guy me and him are very close
but lately he's been drinking and its messing up are friendship what should i
do? Richard
Denisco: This is a question many people face when people they care
about start drinking or drugging. I would try to get him help, start with our
web page www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where
you can find private and confidential help 24/7.But if he will not help himself, then you can not go down with him. You can help him, but not make him do anything. Because this is a disease, just because he does not stop, does not mean that he does not value your friendship. Friendship alone can not treat alcohol disease just like it can not treat heart disease. But it's great to have a friend go through the process with you. So good luck.
student - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: will a baby be addicted to alcohol
if the mother drinks alot Joni
Rutter: Benjamin Franklin, what's up?!
We know from research that
alcohol (including both beer and liquor) can seriously harm the
baby of a mother who drinks during pregnancy, causing a variety of health
problems including a disorder called fetal alcohol syndrome. For more details
about all the birth defects associated with fetal alcohol syndrome, check out
this link: http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa50.htm
The
highest risk of health problems is to babies whose mothers drank HEAVILY while
pregnant, but it is not clear yet whether there is ANY safe level of alcohol
during pregnancy! For this reason, the U.S. Surgeon General released advisories
in 1981 and again in 2005 urging women who are pregnant or may become pregnant
NOT TO DRINK alcohol (http://www.lhvpn.net/hhspress.html).
If a mom is drinking while pregnant, the most important thing is that she quit -
because it can have serious effects on her baby if she does keep drinking. She
should talk to her doctor about her alcohol use, and get help if she is having
problems stopping. Feel free to pass along this information and
keep sending your questions!
mechaela - Parkdale High
School, Maryland: wht is second hand smoke more harmful than just
smoking yourself? Nancy
Pilotte: Second-hand smoke can produce the same effects on your
lungs and cardiovascular systems as if you actually used the
cigarette. A lot of jurisdictions, including Montgomery County, have made
the decision to limit exposure to second-hand smoke by prohibiting smoking in
public places, including shopping centers, theaters, bars, and
restaurants. Without these bans, it would be very hard to control the
amount of second-hand smoke that you inhaled. Did you know that teens are
smoking less than they used to? In fact, NIDA's Monitoring the Future Survey has
found that cigarette smoking rates among youth are at historically low levels.
Smoking by 12th graders in the month prior to the survey fell by 30% between
2001 and 2008. For more information about smoking cigarettes, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
Snorting cocaine can cause:- loss of the sense of smell
- nosebleeds
- heart attacks and seizures
- all of the above
Jellybean - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: Do over the counter drugs or things like
cough medicine effect a pregnancy? Larry
Stanford: This is a difficult question because the answer depends
on what over-the-counter drug is being used and exactly what the ingredients are
in the specific cough medicine. Because a developing fetus can be
affected by many different medications a women who is pregnant should always
ask her doctor's advice before taking any drug. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: why do drugs make you act stupid?
Steve
Grant: When you are high on drugs your perceptions and ability to
make good decisions may be altered, so is your ability to judge the
long term consequences of your behavior. Drugs can also make you feel
overconfident, which could be equally dangerous. These effects act together
so you end up doing things you would not do otherwise. Get the
picture? Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances similar to what
hormone?- testosterone
- estrogen
- progesterone
- estradiol
tjones1 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: if people in your family do or have done drugs how
much higher is your risk Joni
Rutter: Hey there, Junction City,Excellent question! Do you all want to be scientists?? I hope so...we need more inquisitive people such as yourself! If drug abuse runs in your family, you may be at higher risk than most. Drug abuse and alcoholism have strong heriditary components (meaning it 'runs in families'). Scientists estimate that genetic factors account for about 50 percent of a person's risk of becoming addicted. Scientists have even identified variations in particular certain genes that are linked to an individual having a higher risk of developing drug addiction. But that doesn't mean that you are doomed to a life of drug dens! Even if an individual has these 'risk genes', addiction can be entirely avoided if drugs are not used. Plus, the other 50 percent of the risk is due to the environment--like if you hang around friends who use drugs, or your home environment is difficult. So, an individual can also decrease their risk by taking care of themselves, going to school, hanging out with friends who don't drink or use drugs, and being active (like playing sports).
Congratulations, you have total control over whether or not you become addicted! Check out NIDA's Website for teens. It contains information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities. http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov
Liz Persuhn - Theodore Roosevelt
High School, Ohio: I have a friend, who is going smoke pot for the
first time, with a whole bunch of jerks, and I am very disapointed in her. How
is a good way to help her not smoke, and/or if she does smoke, scare her out of
it, so she does not get addicted? I dont want to screw up out friendship,
because it seems like I care more about her health than she does. Ivan Montoya: You are a good friend. It's
very nice that you are trying to help her and I understand your concern about it
being awkward for your friendship. So, you need to find the right time
to talk with her. You may not want to confront her directly but somehow you want
to make her aware of the risk she is taking by trying drugs. You could read some
scientific info about the effects of marijuana and get some facts together that you can share with
her. Here's a good place to start: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_mj1.php
Good luck--and good for you for being a caring friend. tjones1 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: how does smoking pot afect your brain Brian Marquis: Some people
think smoking pot is harmless, but scientific studies show that marijuana affects memory, judgment, and perception. If you're
high on marijuana, you are more likely to make mistakes that could embarrass or
even hurt you, and affect your performance in school. For more information
about how pot affects your brain, check the Facts on Drugs bar on our teen
site: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/. Drugs work in the brain
because their size and shape are similar to natural brain chemicals
called:- neurons
- axons
- neurotransmitters
- dendrites
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: What is a gateway drug? Kevin Conway: Great question. A
gateway drug is a drug (alcohol or illicit substance) that causes someone to use
another drug. Some people refer to marijuana as a 'gateway drug' because they think that its use
causes escalation to other illicit drugs like cocaine or heroin. The research on gateway drugs is highly
controversial. Central to this controversy is whether use of one drug
causes another drug to be abused, or whether a different factor altogether
causes someone to use drugs in the first place. The real take-home message
is that using drugs is dangerous, period, whether or not one drug 'causes' the
use of another drug. For more information see: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/
diazpazchristia - Otto Middle
School, Michigan: my cousin does crack should i stop him before he
dies! yes or no Richard
Denisco: Hi, thanks for the very straight forward question. Crack
is one of the most dangerous and addicting drugs around. But you can not make
him do anything, what you can do is try to get him help. First learn a
little about it yourself on our website http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php it
is real and not BS. From there you can also get some help from parents,
family or friends. Somehow if he could talk to a counselor it might start
the process, but it is not easy and he may need formal treatment. You are
right this is a life and death problem and you need some help to deal with him.
You can also try www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help
24/7. mn cashmere - Cashmere High School,
Washington: does nicotine have any medical uses? Nancy Pilotte: That is a great
question. As you probably know, nicotine is the ingredient in tobacco that makes it so addictive. Some therapeutic
drugs make use of low doses of nicotine to help people who are
trying to quit smoking. So nicotine is in Nicorette gum and in the
nicotine replacement patches that so many smokers wear. These products are
designed to wean people off of cigarettes and other tobacco products that have a
lot of other toxic products in them. Some of the health risks associated
with these other tobacco products range from oral cancers (from chewing
tobacco) to lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. Did you know that teens
are smoking less than they used to? In fact, NIDA's Monitoring the Future Survey
has found that cigarette smoking rates among youth are at historically low
levels. Smoking by 12th graders in the month prior to the survey fell by 30%
between 2001 and 2008. For more information about nicotine, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: my best friend is starting to get out of
contol with crystal meth and he abuses me what do i do? Lisa Onken: I'm sorry to hear that you are
being abused and that your friend has developed a drug problem. No one has
the right, whether they are on drugs or not, to abuse you. You care about
your friend, and you want his or her behavior to change. If you didn't
think they had it in them to be a decent person, you probably wouldn't be
hanging out with them, but please don't continue to put yourself in a
position where any abuse can happen. If there is an adult who can help you with this situation (like a parent, a teacher, or an aunt), I suggest that you speak to that person.
For help from other teens who have a loved one with drug abuse visit the Alateen website at: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen
For help with an abusive relationship call: 866-331-9474.
And to help your friend find a treatment center go to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: why and how do drugs become illegal
Steve
Grant: There is a law called the Controlled Substance Act that
gives the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement
Agency (DEA) the authority to determine the legal status of all drugs, including
those that people may take to get high. Many drugs that don't get you
high are illegal to possess unless you have a prescription from a
doctor. Some drugs, like LSD or heroin, are considered so dangerous to a person's health or
society in general, that no one is allowed to make or posses the drug without
specific permission from the FDA and DEA. In determining the legal status
of a drug the FDA and DEA consider a number of factors, including the medical
benifits of the drug and the likelihood that a person will abuse the drug or
become addicted to it. rachel - Presque Isle High
School, Maine: Isn't amphetamine used in allergy medicines and
pain relievers? Susan
Weiss: I think you are thinking of pseudoephedrine--a mild
stimulant which does not get into the brain very well. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how is crack/cocain addiction passed on
through birth? Joni
Rutter: Que tal, Casa Grande!This is a very thoughtful question! Any form of drug abuse including crack/cocaine has a strong heriditary component (meaning it 'runs in families'). Scientists estimate that genetic factors account for about 50 percent of a person's risk of becoming addicted. Scientists have even identified variations in particular certain genes that are linked to an individual having a higher risk of developing drug addiction. But that doesn't mean that you are doomed to a life of drug dens! Even if an individual has these 'risk genes', addiction can be entirely avoided if drugs are not used. Plus, the other 50 percent of the risk is due to the environment--like if you hang around friends who use drugs, or your home environment is difficult. So, an individual can also decrease their risk by taking care of themselves, going to school, hanging out with friends who don't drink or use drugs, and being active (like playing sports).
Congratulations, you have total control over whether or not you become addicted! Check out NIDA's Website for teens. It contains information on the science behind drug abuse, facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities. http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov
Using cocaine can cause these immediate effects:- anxiety or paranoia
- increased heart rate
- elevated blood pressure
- all of the above
Ecstasy is a 'synthetic'
drug, which means it is:- derived from a plant
- not derived from a naturally occurring source
- not very harmful
- cancer-causing
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: when someone is taking perscription drugs
for depression and also has bipolar disorder so they are taking many different
medications perscribed by their doctor is it strange for them to get a dry mouth
all of the time? Richard
Denisco: Good question, unfortunately medications have side
effects and dry mouth is common for anti-depressants. They should mention it to
their doctor and perhaps a medication adjustment can help. But sometimes the
side effect must be tolerated to get the benefit of the medicine. Dry mouth can
cause dental disease so it is something to try and fix if possible. catsw - Boiling Springs High
School, Pennsylvania: When do you know that a friend overdosed and
needs to be in the hospital? Kevin
Conway: Great question! An overdose is when someone takes more than the normal or
recommended amount of something, usually a drug. An overdose may result in
serious, harmful symptoms or death. If someone takes too much of something
on purpose, it is called an intentional or deliberate overdose. If the
overdose happens by mistake, it is called an accidental overdose. For example, a
young child may accidentally take an adult's heart medication.If it is an emergency, you should always call 911 immediately.
If it is not an emergency or if you would like information, the National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. It is a free and confidential service. You should call if you have any questions about an overdose, poisoning, or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For more information see: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/
>
Breathable chemical vapors
that cause mind-altering effects are called:- sedatives
- amphetamines
- inhalants
- depressants
july730 - Randolph Clay Middle/High
School, Georgia: i am so not interested in doing drugs...why are
others Joni
Rutter: Good for you Randolph Clay! I'm glad to hear that you aren't interested in doing drugs! I'm not either. People will often say they take drugs for a lot of reasons, including because they are depressed or anxious, and they think the drugs will take away those bad feelings. Other people say that they take drugs as an excuse to do things that they wouldn't otherwise do. And some just want to experience different or new feelings. There are plenty of other things you can do to get new and different experiences without the use of drugs. Want more information on how to live above the influence of drugs and alcohol? Visit http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/ and http://teens.drugabuse.gov/.
Keep doing your thing - drug-free, of couse - Randolph Clay!
annarules - Kingswood Middle
School, New Hampshire: why do celebirty's use drugs? i mean u see
them useing drugs an awful lot and i would like to know why that is?
Richard
Denisco: That's a great question. I can only give you my thoughts,
each celebrity uses for their own reasons, but in general they have more access,
which includes having a lot of money and knowing many people who want to get
them anything they want. Also, people may tell them how great they
are - which is another way of saying big ego. If everyone is doing something and
you think you can get away with it you might try it. Sometimes wealth and fame
at an early age is hard to handle, but in the end every celebrity has their own
reasons. casa grande T&M - Casa Grande
Union High School, Arizona: My best friend smakes cigars and says
ther're not harmful, but I disagree. Am I wrong??? Ivan Montoya: You are right. Cigars contain
nicotine and when they are smoked, the smoke that enters the
lungs can cause harm. Although some people say that they don't inhale it, the
fact is that free smoke from the lighted cigar is very likely to be inhaled by
those who are nearby, including the smoker of course. JUJU - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: WHAT ARE THIZZLES AND WHAT ARE THE HARMS DOES IT PUT YOUR
BODY THROUGH? Stephanie
Older: Thizzles is a street name for ecstasy. Adverse health
effects can include nausea, chills, sweating, teeth clenching, muscle cramping,
and blurred vision. MDMA can interfere with the body's ability to regulate
temperature; on rare occasions, this can be lethal. The reward structures are
part of a larger brain system known as the:- artistic center
- nervous center
- limbic system
- logic system
PD_frog - Junction City High
School, Oregon: If someone who is pregnant had sex with a guy who
was high at the time they had sex how would that effect her? Larry Stanford: People who take drugs tend
to be more likely to have sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia,
gonorrhea, hepatitis, and HIV--especially if they inject the drugs. For this
reason, it's a good idea for a woman who has had sex with someone who is high to
get tested to make sure she hasn't become infected or to receive treatment
if she has. Some of these diseases can negatively affect her fetus. blue - Presque Isle High School,
Maine: why is red wine good for your heart Ivan Montoya: It has been reported that
drinking red wine in moderation may have some benefitial effects for
health. However, the beneficial dose of wine is really not known and therefore
someone who might be vulnerable to alcohol abuse may drink red wine in large amounts and become an
alcoholic. Check out these FAQs about alcohol on another NIH website: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body sclions019 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: Can Ecstasy really kill you the first
time you try it.? Susan
Weiss: Yes--although its a rare event. This can happen for
various reasons: 1) MDMA is often associated with vigorous physical activity for
extended periods, which can lead to a marked rise in body temperature
(hyperthermia), that can in turn it lead to muscle breakdown and kidney failure.
In addition, dehydration, high blood pressure, and heart failure may occur in
susceptible individuals; 2) MDMA is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream,
but once in the body, MDMA metabolites interfere with the body's ability break
down the drug. As a result, if someone takes additional doses when the effects
start to wear off, they can achieve unexpectedly high blood levels, which
could worsen the cardiovascular and other toxic effects of this drug; 3)
you don't really know what you're getting when you take an ecstasy pill--it can
contain other ingredients that are toxic and life threatening; and finally 4)
people often mix drugs--which can have unpredictable and sometimes deadly
outcomes. Which of the following is the
part of the brain that controls feelings of pleasure?- hippocampus
- dendrites
- cerebellum
- nucleus accumbens
emdawg - Presque Isle High School,
Maine: What are examples of an implanted drugs? Ivan Montoya: Implanted medications are
used by physicians for long-term treatment of certain diseases. Usually, they
require a special preparation and a small surgery to implant them under the
skin. After the implantation, these medications slowly release their active
ingredients and provide the treatment for which they are prescribed. Cocaine can damage the heart by causing:- heartburn
- fibrillation, or when the heart beats so fast it loses its natural rhythm
- a slower heart rate
- more oxygen to get to the heart
Casa Grande* - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Dr. Lisa Onken Is you job easy? I wato
become a psychologist Lisa
Onken: I wouldn't call it 'easy.' (I hope that's not the
ONLY reason you want to become a psychologist!). But I would say that the
job is very fulfilling in many ways. It is rewarding to help in the
development of treatments for people with addictive and psychiatric problems
because it is great to know that people can have these problems, recover from
these problems, and go on to lead happy, healthy, and productive lives.
People can really change for the better, and that makes all the hard work worth
it! casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: is meth really that dangerous?? Steve Grant: Yes, meth is really that
dangerous. Apart from the bad effects that meth has on the
brain, people who take meth end up not sleeping, eating, or even taking the
most basic care of themselves. Meth also can increase your blood
pressure and damage your heart. So, long-term meth use ends up ruining
your general health. Long time meth users often look much, much older than
they really are. You can find out more about the effects of meth at the NIDA web
site: http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/methamphetamine.html
There are many kinds of
stimulants. Which of the following is NOT a stimulant?- caffeine
- heroin
- methamphetamine
- cocaine
sclionsteach - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: How can teens support a friend who has
gone through drug/alcohol rehabilitation? Lisa Onken: There are lots of ways that you
can support your friend. The fact that you're asking this question shows
me that you are a caring friend, and that is probably the most important way you
can support him/her. Another way is to help your friend avoid situations
where there's a possibility that the friend could relapse and go back to
using-like going with your friend to places that are as drug- and alcohol- free rather than to parties where drugs will likely
be. Good luck to you and your friend. kiara - Parkdale High School,
Maryland: what do you think cause people to become addicted to
drugs Nancy
Pilotte: That is a really hard question to answer because
everyone does not respond to all drugs in exactly the same way. In
general, though, addiction occurs because drugs of abuse enter the brain and can
cause long-term changes in its reward systems. Whether this happens to
someone depends on what drug, how young someone is when they take it, and
how often they use these drugs--but this is also somewhat dependent on the
person's genetic makeup or susceptibility. In other words, some people are more
likely to be vulnerable to the effects of drugs than others. Also, if the
people you spend your time with use drugs, you are more likely to do so too
because the opportunity is often there. Some people try drugs once, like
smoking tobacco, and learn that they don't like it and so they don't do
it again. There is a lot we still don't know about who becomes addicted
and why, and after how much drug exposure. We do know that each person is
different, so it's a little like playing 'Russian Roulette' if you choose to use
drugs. But, if you do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you will be to
avoid addiction and the harmful brain changes that lead to it. For free downloads and cool videos about drugs, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/index.php#downloads.
Which of the following is an
opiate drug that doctors prescribe for the treatment of pain?- amphetamine
- cookies & milk
- morphine
- mu receptor
El Salvadoreno - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: Can you think your mom is hot when you are high?
Joni
Rutter: Well now, there's a good reason not to do drugs and get
high. Plus, I'm sure your Mom wouldn't appreciate it! Bubbles - South Middle School, West
Virginia: If you let your kids take achohol in moderation, would
they become addicted? Kevin
Conway: Great question! This is a really tricky question,
and it has no simple answer. The danger with kids using alcohol, even in moderation, is that their brains may be
particularly vulnerable to the effects of alcohol (or drugs) because they are
still developing. The younger that kids use alcohol (or drugs), the more
likely they are to develop alcohol or drug problems. And while we really
can't predict which kids will (or will not) develop drug or alcohol problems, it
is a risk for kids to use drugs or alcohol at all.For more information see: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Can I get pregnant if I abuse drugs?
Brian
Marquis: Did you know that the part of the brain that helps you
make good decisions is the last to develop? The prefrontal cortex - the front of
the brain - doesn't fully mature until you are in your 20's. Drugs affect parts of
the brain that are still developing - so treat your brain well, and reach your
full potential. Teens who are intoxicated can make bad decisions that lead to
unsafe sex - and that puts them at risk for an unwanted pregnancy or getting
sexually transmitted diseases, even HIV. For more information about
how abusing drugs can affect your helath and behavior, check out our teen web
site: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/. SCLions073 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: dr.richard if you took drugs before
skiing would u die from wrecking? if i took X and went scuba diving in a fish
tank with a without a O2 tank would i drown? will a painkiller remove the
feeling from my face allowing me to cook it in a frying pan? Richard Denisco: Hi SCLions 073. That's
exactly the problem. If you get messed up and try to do things that require
coordination you could wreck BAD! When the pain reliever wears off you will feel
all the pain and then some. When I go skiing I want to feel all the sensations
and not have them dulled. That way I can enjoy the experience. For me going
skiing and not remembering is not much fun. Why would you want to put your face
on a frying pan? Not a good move to improve your looks, but on drugs it might
just SEEM like a good idea. Long term smoking can lead to
which of the following?- white teeth
- smooth skin
- stroke
- loss of teeth
Bubbles - South Middle School, West
Virginia: Es Chocolate una drug? Stephanie Older: Hi there,Chocolate is not considered a drug; although--like anything--it should be consumed in moderation (sadly for me b/c it's my favorite food)!
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: What happens if you take muscle relaxers??
Kevin
Conway: Great question! Muscle relaxants are drugs that are
administered to relax muscles. This means that they are given to relieve the
discomfort of muscle spasms or involuntary muscle contractures. But
because muscle spasms or involuntary muscle contractures can be painful,
doctors can prescribe pain relivers as well. Pain relievers can be
addictive -- so it is really important that any prescribed drugs be taken
exactly as the doctor indicates. For more information see: http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/
VVHS_MKW - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: how do i help my mom quit smoking when she as
been smoking since a year age and she is now 42 so what do i do? Ivan Montoya: This is a great question and
it's very nice that you are trying to help your mom. I suggest that you talk
with her and tell her about the medical problems caused by smoking, like lung
problems, heart problems and cancer. You can show her this website: http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/, which
contains lots of resources and info. Also, you may want to tell her that
if she smokes and other people inhale the smoke of her cigarettes they may also
suffer the consequences of smoking. This is called 'second hand smoking.'
So, she may decide that she wants to quit when she realizes that smoking is bad
for her and for those who are near hear. Good luck! BLUE055 - Dixie High School,
Utah: how do counslors and teachers get there numbers for people
who smoke and drink how do they fully now that it may be 7% or 10%? they never
fully know that a kid could do drugs or drink. Gaya Dowling: We get information on how
many people take different drugs from National surveys. There is one - the
Monitoring the Future Survey - that collects information on how many
students in the 8th, 10th, and 12th grades abuse different drugs. It's true that
some kids may not be honest in these surveys (even though they are anonymous),
but since the various surveys come out with consistent results, we're pretty
confident in the numbers we get. waldo - Port Chester High School,
New York: do you advice teenagers to use drugs to help out in
school or in street problems. ily Steve
Grant: I would never advise anyone, teenager or adults, to use
drugs on their own to solve problems they are having. However, some
teenagers have problems such as depression, anxiety or attention deficit
disorder. A person with those types of problems should see a doctor, who
can prescribe specific medications to help them and closely monitor their use to
make sure that the person doesn't use too much or suffer adverse effects. herreragloria - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: my dad drinks when he plays pool snd then he drives he
and then he comes home and asks really stuped so i get scared so how do i make
him stop drinking Redonna
Chandler: Thanks for your question. Dealing with parental drug
abuse is tough and I know this from first hand experience. When I was
living with a father who had a drinking problem I needed friends I could
talk to that I could trust. You can talk to a friend or school counselor
that can provide you with support by listening and by helping to make sure
you aren't impacted negatively by your dad's drug use. For example, when
my father would drink I would make sure I didn't ride with him in the
car and arranged for friends or their parents to take me places.
Also, I talked with my school guidance counselor and participated in a
local Al-Anon program for teens (Alateen) whose parents used drugs.
There I found additional support on how to deal with my father's drug
use from people having the same experience. You can access more
information including: information on how to help someone stop using drugs
see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7,
and for more information about Alateen see:http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen
Which of the following is
part of a neuron?- axon
- crystal
- bone marrow
- positron emission tomography
SCLions077 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: Do "light" cigarettes contain less
toxins than regular ones? Ivan
Montoya: The so called 'light' cigarettes have less nicotine than the regular cigarettes but contain the same
amount of other toxic substances present in a regular cigarette. If fact, it has
been reported that 'light' cigarette smokers tend to smoke more and have deeper
puffs to make up for the lower nicotine. Therefore, they may end up
inhaling more toxins. Flavored cigarettes aren't any better...check it out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/?s=nicotine. herreragloria - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: how many questins do u get in a day Cindy Miner: So far, we have had over 12
thousand questions! Patsfan77 - Presque Isle High
School, Maine: Marijuana is mentally addcitive, but why not
physically addicitve? Kevin
Conway: Great question! Although many people think that marijuana is not physically addictive, long-term marijuana
use can lead to addiction in some people. That is, they cannot control their
urges to seek out and use marijuana, even though it negatively affects their
family relationships, school performance, and recreational activities. Some
frequent, heavy marijuana users develop "tolerance" to its effects. This means
they need larger and larger amounts of marijuana to get the same desired effects
as they used to get from smaller amounts. Because tolerance is a physical
process that involves cellular change, we know that marijuana is in
fact physically addictive.For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php and http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_mj1.php
Ambaa22 - Skaneateles High School,
New York: If you use drugs when you have cancer how much does it
increase your risk of not surviving? Susan
Weiss: That depends on the drug--most drugs have many different
effects in the body, which can potentially interact badly with many diseases,
including cancer. Some drugs may even compromise the immune
system--the body's natural defense system to fight illness--which could also
worsen the course of an illness. It's very important for patients to
be honest with their physicians and let them know about all
the drugs they are taking in order to get the best healthcare possible. noname-potmasta - South Middle
School, West Virginia: I wanna kill myself, can drugs help me out?
What drugs would kill my the fastest? hypothetically? Redonna Chandler: Dear
Noname-Postmast,First, if you are thinking about hurting yourself in any way please seek help! You can talk to a trusted adult - parent, teacher, school guidance counselor, parent of a friend - or call SAMHSA crisis line at 1-800-273-TALK where there is someone available to talk 24/7. Next, remember that suicide is a permanent solution to situations, feelings, and thoughts that regardless of how awful they are right now can be addressed and won't last forever. Please reach out for help and get yourself the support you need to confront whatever is causing you so much pain. You are a young person with a unique contribution to make in this world. We need your gifts, talents, energy, and creativity - remember that, hang in there, and get help.
banger92 - Port Chester High
School, New York: What is lexapro used for? Ivan Montoya: Lexapro is the brand name of
a medication called escitalopram. It is prescribed by doctors to treat
depression and anxiety. Check out the National Institute of Mental Health's
website listing of drugs used for these conditions: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/mental-health-medications/alphabetical-list-of-medications.shtml Poptart. - Dixie High School,
Utah: What happens during a with drawl? Steve Grant: It really depends on the
drug. When you withdraw from opioid drugs like oxycontin, Vicodin, or heroin, you can get physically sick, like a bad case of the
flu. Withdrawal from sedative drugs like alcohol or diazepam (Valium) can lead to agitation and even
siezures. Marijuana withdrawal often leads to inability to sleep, and
stimulant withdrawal can cause you to oversleep (crash) and feel depressed. karim09bait - Einstein High School,
Maryland: Can you get an overdose when taking ecstasy?
David
Shurtleff: Yes- ecstasy (also known as MDMA) is often taken during periods of physical
activity. This can lead to a marked rise in body temperature (hyperthermia).
Treatment of hyperthermia requires prompt medical attention, as it can rapidly
lead to muscle breakdown, which can in turn result in kidney failure. In
addition, dehydration, hypertension, and heart failure may occur in susceptible
individuals. MDMA can also reduce the pumping efficiency of the heart, which is
of particular concern during periods of increased physical activity.For more information about ecstacy, check out http://www.clubdrugs.gov/.
Keck - Casa Grande Union High
School, Arizona: Is there a drug that will help you perform better
in competitions such as band, sports etc...? Steve Grant: Some drugs keep you awake
(stimulants like amphetamine, cocaine, or Ritalin) or build muscle (steroids). Although those effects may or may not increase
your performance in the short run, over time the effects of the drugs will end
up decreasing your performance. In other words, you pay a steep price for
any gains you may get when you take drugs for performance enhancement. And then
there is the ethical and legal issues. By taking these drugs to enhance your
performance you are seeking to gain an unfair advantage over your rivals (using
steroids to excel in sports) or your classmates (taking rital to cram before
exams) toothfairy - Lima Central Catholic
High School, Ohio: for some reason, i like the smell of gasoline,
is this harmful. I dont sniff it straight out of a can, but it stand close to
the pump. Nancy
Pilotte: The chemicals that make up gasoline belong to a class of
drugs called 'inhalants.' They are all organic compounds. Like
gasoline, many of the inhalants have a sweetish smell that is somewhat
pleasant. But don't be fooled! These chemicals, when inhaled deeply,
stick around in your body fat for a long time and can be released from the fat
stores for several hours. Because these are all fat-soluble, they can
interfere with the functions of many of the lipid membranes in your body.
They can lead to liver and brain damage and these deficits are usually
permanent. Did you know that inhalants can damage brain cells by
preventing them from receiving enough oxygen too? For more information about inhalants, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php!
dwood - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: why do people use animals to test drugs? Joni Rutter: Lakeview's in the
house!!Some would argue that virtually every medical achievement has relied on the use of animals in some way -- sometimes computers are unable to model interactions between molecules, cells, tissues, organs, organisms, and the environment, which makes animal research necessary in many areas, including understanding how drugs affect humans. For example, to study certain traits that are passed on through genes in your DNA, scientists turn to animal models (such as flies, worms, rodents, and others) because you can breed them faster and control who the moms and dads are. You can't do that with people so easily. Also, some effects of drugs on humans may not be known, so they are tested on animals first so we can understand how the drug works on the body and how the body breaks down the drug.
Using animals in any research setting is under strict control. For example, there is the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), which ensures that alternatives, including non-animal alternatives, have been considered, that the experiments are not unnecessarily duplicative, and that pain relief is given unless it would interfere with the study. IACUCs and the animal researchers take their work very seriously regardless of the species involved. Thanks for your great question! Keep 'em coming!
MerrillLyndsey - Otto Middle
School, Michigan: my brother likes to smoke, What do i do to tell
him it is bad? Redonna
Chandler: Merryll Lyndsey, It's true smoking has negative
consequences for your brother's health and everyone around him who breathes the
smoke.
Tobacco abuse harms every organ in the body. It has been conclusively linked to leukemia, cataracts, and pneumonia, and accounts for about one-third of all cancer deaths. The overall rates of death from cancer are twice as high among smokers as nonsmokers, with heavy smokers having rates that are four times greater than those of nonsmokers. And, you guessed it - foremost among the cancers caused by tobacco use is lung cancer. In fact, cigarette smoking has been linked to about 90 percent of all lung cancer cases, the number-one cancer killer of both men and women. Tobacco abuse is also associated with cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, cervix, kidney, ureter, and bladder.
Smokers also lose some of their sense of smell and taste, don't have the same stamina for exercise and sports they once did, and may smell of smoke. After smoking for a long time, smokers find that their skin ages faster and their teeth discolor or turn brown.
It's not just the smokers who are affected. Nonsmokers are exposed to "secondhand smoke," which comes from both the smoke that a smoker exhales and from the smoke floating from the end of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe. Inhaling secondhand smoke increases a person's risk of developing heart disease by 25 to 30 percent and lung cancer by 20 to 30 percent. In fact, secondhand smoke is estimated to contribute to as many as 40,000 deaths related to heart disease and about 3,000 lung cancer deaths per year among nonsmokers. Secondhand smoke also causes respiratory problems in nonsmokers, like coughing, phlegm, and reduced lung function. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome, acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more severe asthma. And, believe it or not, dropped cigarettes are the leading cause of residential fire fatalities, leading to more than 1,000 such deaths each year.
Each year, almost half a million Americans die from tobacco use. One of every
six deaths in the United States is a result of tobacco use, making tobacco more
lethal than all other addictive drugs combined. So, you can't make your brother
quit smoking but you can certainly tell him you are concerned. And if he
comes to his senses and decides to quit smoking you can refer him to the
National Quitline at:
Hope this
helps and good luck.
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Why is marijuana a "Gateway" Drug
Nancy
Pilotte: That is a really interesting question. If a drug
acts as a 'gateway,' then its use would lead to the use of another,
different drug--and for some, that seems to be what happens. But for
a lot of people, it does not. The scientific research is also not
clear about whether marijuana (or other drugs) are gateways. The National
Institute on Drug Abuse is supporting research that addresses this question, but
we have no clear answer yet. Have you seen the Sara Bellum Blog? It has
all the latest information on drugs and drug abuse, and you can comment on
what's written. Check it out at http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/. dnm1345 - Dixie High School,
Utah: my father has been drinking daily for a few months he
doesn't get wasted, but he does always have a drink in his hand and it is
starting to affect his personality. why is that? Harold Perl: Hello. Thanks for asking
a question that I know is very important to you. Many people wonder
why drinking alcohol has such profound effects on thought, mood, and
behavior. Scientists are addressing these questions through neuroscience - the
study of the brain. To function normally, the brain must maintain a careful
balance of chemicals called neurotransmitters - small molecules involved in the
brain's communication system that control the body's function and behavior. Just
as a heavy weight can tip a scale, alcohol use can alter the delicate balance
among different types of neurotransmitter chemicals. You sound
very concerned about the changes that you are seeing in your
father and I'm sure that you want to help him in any way that you
can. You could try talking to him about your concerns about his
drinking and ask him to try to get some professional help or to attend a
self-help group such as Alcoholics Anonymous. It is important that you be
able to talk about your own worries with other members of your family or trusted
adults such as a teacher, a school counselor, or a minister or rabbi. A
group called Alateen helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the
effects of living with a relative or friend who abuses alcohol. Their
website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
Here is a website for teens that will give you information about alcohol
abuse: http://www.thecoolspot.gov/. Whatever you
do, try to learn as much as you can about drug and alcohol addiction
and find someone to help you deal with this problem. Take good care,
and good luck to you, your father, and your family. poptart - Spring Woods High School,
Texas: can people grow tired of a drug after using it for years?
Ivan
Montoya: Yes. Some people who use drugs for a long time can get
tired of them and stop using them. They probaly realize that drugs cause so many
medical and psychological problems that it's not worth it anymore. But
many negative effects can occur in the meantime--better not to start!
Check out our teen website for lots more: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how long does it take to get your brain
cells back when you smoke Nancy
Pilotte: It depends on what you smoke and how long or how
frequently you smoked it. There is no evidence that smoking cigarettes or
marijuana kills brain cells, but marijuana definitely has other
negative effects on the brain and cigarette smoking is linked to a variety of
cancers. Importantly, both cigarettes and nicotine change the brain to make it more susceptible to
addiction. We know that some drugs of abuse have very persistent changes in the
brain, but we don't have enough research yet to tell us how long those changes
last. Can the brain recover after you stop using drugs? Probably, yes, but
that depends on many things, like how young somebody is when they start. We know
from scientific research that the earlier you start, the more likely you are to
have drug and other problems, for example, in school or with your family. It is
therefore best to never start; however, if you do, the earlier you stop, the
more likely you will be to avoid addiction and the harmful brain changes that
lead to it. For more information about drugs, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/.
Valley Vista - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: Does weed affect athletes? Larry Stanford: This is an important,
interesting and complex question. In the short term, of course, the marijuana is likely to impair an athlete's coordination,
leading to subpar performance. In the longer term, continued use of
marijuana can cause impaired respiratory function, again leading to a decrease
in performance. For more information on the possible consequences or
marijuana use, please see http://www.marijuana-info.org/. Britney Spears - Dixie High School,
Utah: if you have someone that is close to you that is doing
drugs, what is the most respectful way to tell them to stop Redonna Chandler: This can be a very
painful situation. People sometimes choose drugs and alcohol instead of their families or friends. Letting
your friends know about your concern can help but it's really important that you
take care of yourself. To find general information on substance
abuse prevention and treatment, two good places to begin include the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Web
site, http://www.samhsa.gov/;
or to http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_brain1.php
Also, you might choose to talk to a school counselor or other trusted adult
about the situation. PaolaRocks! - Brockbank Jr. High,
Utah: What are the effects of Meth? Kevin Conway: Great question! Methamphetamine is a dangerous and highly addictive drug that
is similar in structure to amphetamine. Due to its high potential for abuse,
methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II drug which means that it is only
available through a prescription that cannot be refilled. Taking even small
amounts of methamphetamine can result in many of the same physical effects of
other stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines, including increased wakefulness,
increased physical activity, decreased appetite, increased respiration, rapid
heart rate, irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and
hyperthermia. Long-term methamphetamine abuse has many negative health
consequences, including extreme weight loss, severe dental problems ("meth
mouth"), anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mood disturbances, and violent behavior.
Chronic methamphetamine abusers can also display a number of psychotic features,
including paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations, and delusions (for
example, the sensation of insects crawling under the skin). For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ and http://teens.drugabuse.gov/mom/mom_meth1.php
sierrapervall - Theodore Roosevelt
High School, Ohio: What drink has the highest percentage of
alcohol? Harold
Perl: Hi. Thanks for a very interesting question.
Different types of drinks have different percentages of alcohol, ranging from beer to wine to fortified wine to
distilled spirits ('hard liquor'). Of course the amount that a person
drinks will determine the amount of alcohol (chemically known as 'ethanol') that
he or she ingests. For different types of beer, wine, or malt liquor, the
alcohol content can vary greatly. Some differences are smaller than you might
expect, however. Many light beers, for example, have almost as much alcohol as
regular beer - about 85% as much, or 4.2% versus 5.0% alcohol by volume, on
average. If you want to know the alcohol content of a canned or bottled
beverage, start by checking the label. You can get more information
on alcohol at the website of our sister agency, the National Institute on
Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at: www.niaaa.nih.gov. They also have a
special site for teens at www.thecoolspot.gov Thanks
again and keep your questions coming in! ZayJ34 - Lima Central Catholic High
School, Ohio: does sniffing scented erasers for an extended period
of time cause a loss of brain cells? Nancy
Pilotte: That depends on what they are scented with.
Potpourri usually does not cause loss of brain cells but chemicals like toluene
could. For more information about inhalants, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php!
jed110540 - Boiling Springs High
School, Pennsylvania: Is it true that you become addicted to
heroine afte one dosage? Susan
Weiss: That's a tricky question. First of all, everyone is
different--and some people are more vulnerable to the addictive effects of a
substance than others. Second, most people don't use heroin
as their first drug--so we are not talking about a 'drug-naive' brain being
exposed to the drug. And since most drugs have common effects on
certain brain systems, the risks would be increased based on the person's
history of other drug use. Third, the route of administration is
important--injecting or smoking a drug gets it to the brain most quickly, also
increasing its potential addictiveness. So the bottom line is that this is
a very dangerous behavior to engage in. Also, coincidentally, I talked with someone yesterday who's son did exactly that--became addicted to heroin after his first use, although he had previous experience with other drugs. Sadly, his story ended in a fatal overdose. So I would strongly suggest this not be a risk you take.
casagrannde - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: If you take an anti-depressant like zoloft
is it more dangerous to do drugs? Ivan
Montoya: Zoloft is a medication that does not produce addiction
and is safe when it is prescribed by a doctor in the correct dose and for
the right medical reasons. However, like any other medication, if someone uses
it in a different way than prescribed, or uses someone else's prescription,
then there can be medical consequences. Read a blog entry one of our NIDA staff
wrote about her experience: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/life-is-complicated-enough-why-add-prescription-drugs-to-the-mix/ ZayJ34 - Lima Central Catholic High
School, Ohio: does sniffing scented erasers for an extended period
of time cause a loss of brain cells? Nancy
Pilotte: That depends on what they are scented with.
Potpourri usually does not cause loss of brain cells but chemicals like toluene
could. For more information about inhalants, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php!
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: could you die if you are mixing red bull and
alcohol? Steve
Grant: That is an important question. Alcohol is a sedative, and people who drink too much risk
passing out. People drink Red bull because it contains caffeine,
which is a stimulant and keeps you awake. As a result, you can keep
drinking alcohol and not pass out. But when the stimulant effects of Red
Bull wear off, you can still have a lot of alcohol in your body, so there is a
risk of alcohol poisoning. People die from too much alcohol because they
pass out and hurt themselves, stop breathing, or vomit and choke on their
vomit. Mixing drugs is always dangerous, and often can lead to worse
effects than just taking one drug by itself. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Both of My Parents are alcoholics, does that
make it more likely that I will drink when i'm older. Joni Rutter: Good news, because your
parents used alcohol, that doesn't mean that you will automatically
become addicted, although drug abuse and alcoholism have strong heriditary
components (meaning it 'runs in families'). Scientists estimate that
genetic factors account for about 50 percent of a person's risk of becoming
addicted.Many other factors, such as stress levels and family environment also
contribute heavily. We even have identified particular gene variants that are
linked to higher risk of alcoholism, but even if you have the high risk form of
these genes,alcoholism can be entirely avoided if alcohol is not used. Here's
NIDA's Website for teens with information on the science behind drug abuse,
facts on drugs, questions and answers, real stories and interactive activities.
http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov Here's more good news! Doing things like going to school, hanging out with friends who don't drink, and being active (like playing sports) can help protect you from alcoholism and other drugs--even if you have other risk factors. You have total control over whether or not you become addicted to alcohol. I hope you stay sober!!
sarcasm - Dixie High School,
Utah: i enjoy drawing with makers but my head feels funny after a
wile because of the fumes am i hurting my brain? David Shurtleff:
Some can make you 'high' depending
on the chemical used. The high would be caused by the release of dopamine in the
reward areas of the brain, and the high would resemble alcohol intoxication. The problem is that some of these
chemicals are toxic--they can produce a loss of sensation, and even
unconsciousness if taken in high concentrations! With repeated use they can
irreversibly result in hearing loss, limb spasms, and brain or bone marrow
damage. Sniffing high concentrations of inhalants may result in death from heart failure or suffocation
(inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs)-not good! Make sure you use non-toxic markers to be safe!
For more information about inhalants, check out
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php!
greencowz22 - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: if you have a really big imagination does that
mean your on something? Joni
Rutter: Congrats Middlebury High! Your question is getting
answered!Well, if an individual has a really big, vivid imagination, it doesn't mean they are ON something...that may just mean that they are on TO something! Creativity is a good thing! Most scientists are quite creative and have big imaginations, and they aren't on drugs...they just like to think outside the box. If you, or someone you know has a 'big imagination', encourage them to go into science--especially genetics--it takes a lot of imagination to study something as small as a molecule of DNA!!
Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Why is there a big debate on what is worse
between alcohol and drugs?? Why cant we just all agree that both are bad no
matter the consequences?? Cindy
Miner: Casa Grande, I like the way you think. Alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, other drugs, they all can have very serious
consequences, I hope that we all can agree on that. darknessr1sing - Cashmere High
School, Washington: Dude my EX girlfriend was on drugs and i still
care for her how can i help her????? Redonna
Chandler: When someone has a drug problem, it's not always easy to
know what to do. If your girlfriend is using drugs, encourage her to talk
to a parent, school guidance counselor, or other trusted adult. If she doesn't
feel comfortable doing that then she can also use anonymous resources, such as
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment
Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP). It's important to not make her feel judged
and show her support by listening. I hope this helps. thegirl - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: Are the effects of steroids always true? Steve Grant: There are a lot more harmful
effects of steroids than most people think. Steroids have very
powerful effects on a wide range of bodily functions, including the brain.
Doctors prescribe steroids in relatively small amounts to help treat diseases,
but people who use them for body building take much larger amounts and for
a longer periods of time, and that increases the chances that there will be
harmful effects. You can learn more about the consequences of steroida buse by visiting our site:
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_ster2.php
aolinger - Junction City High
School, Oregon: does marijuana effect your driving abilities?
Nancy
Pilotte: What a great question! That is one of the aspects
of using marijuana that has been studied a lot, and we can say
definitively that the answer is 'YES.' NIDA research indicates that in
2006, more than 10 percent of high school seniors admitted to driving under the
influence of marijuana in the two weeks prior to the survey. Drugs can alter
perception, cognition, attention, balance, coordination and other faculties
needed for safe driving. Did you know that vehicle accidents are the leading
cause of death among young people age 15 to 24? Evidence from both real and
simulated driving studies indicates that marijuana can negatively affect a
driver's attentiveness, perception of time and speed, and the ability to draw on
information obtained from past experiences.For more information about marijuana, check out http://www.marijuana-info.org/.
lie961 - Port Chester High School,
New York: y do people smoke Kevin Conway: Great question! People
smoke for lots of different reasons. Smoking (cigarettes) can have a
stimulating effect, but it is also very dangerous and addictive. So,
whereas most people start smoking because they are curious about the effects of
nicotine or because of peer pressure, once they become
addicted, they can't stop.For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ and http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/tobacco.html
holly marie - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: what if your boyfriend is doing drugs and
you mant them to stop, how do you get them to stop? Redonna Chandler: When someone has a drug
problem, it's not always easy to know what to do. If your boyfriend is
using drugs, encourage him to talk to a parent, school guidance counselor, or
other trusted adult. If he doesn't feel comfortable doing that then he can also
use anonymous resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
(1-800-273-TALK) and the Treatment Referral Helpline (1-800-662-HELP). It's
important to not make him feel judged and show him support by listening. I hope
this helps. mitchhedburg - Rockville High
School, Maryland: What is salvia and why is it considered less
dangerous to be legalized in certain areas? Stephanie Older: Salvia (Salvia
divinorum) is an herb common to southern Mexico and Central and South
America. It can be ingested by chewing fresh leaves or by drinking their
extracted juices; or the dried leaves can be smoked, consumed in water pipes, or
vaporized and inhaled. People who abuse Salvia experience hallucinations
or delusional episodes that mimic psychosis--this is concerning; particularly
when it comes to driving under the influence of salvia. Although salvia
currently is not a drug regulated by the Controlled Substances Act, several
states and countries have passed legislation to regulate its use. The Drug
Enforcement Agency has listed salvia as a drug of concern and is considering
classifying it as a Schedule I drug - meaning it has a high potential for abuse,
and no established therapeutic benefits. The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2007 nearly 13,000 people were killed in
alcohol-impaired driving crashes. A person who has smoked marijuana may have difficulty keeping his or her balance
because of marijuana's effect on what brain area?- the cerebral cortex
- the limbic system
- the hippocampus
- the cerebellum
jumpman23 - Dixie High School,
Utah: are people that once were adicted to one drug be more likely
to start using another to cope with the withdrals from the other? Ivan Montoya: Sometimes people who were
addicted to one drug may start using another substance of abuse. That's
why doctors recommend that people who have had an addiction should stay
away from trying any addictive sustance because they run the risk of getting
addicted to the new substance. mn cashmere - Cashmere High School,
Washington: what is nicotine used for in the medical field
Ivan
Montoya: Nicotine is used in the medical field as part of treatments to
help people quit smoking. One such treatment is nicotine replacement
therapy. By providing nicotine in gum, patches, lozenges,
etc., it helps smokers lower their craving and so they can more easily
quit smoking. Check out this link for lots of good info: http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/M mejiaelexis - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: are u a real person or this computer answering r qestion
Gaya
Dowling: Yes, we are real people - most of us are scientists, all
of us are dedicated to get out the facts about drug abuse. aracely - C.H. Yoe High School,
Texas: can you please explain me how the mariguana can be good or
bad to the health. Susan
Weiss: Smoking marijuana is not good for your health--it exposes the lungs to
many of the same toxins and carcinogens as tobacco. It also effects your brain--it can be addictive,
it disrupts memory, coordination, and it increases appetite. However,
some of the ingredients in the marijuana plant appear to have health
benefits--which is why scientists are working tirelessly to identify and isolate
these components to develop new medicines. THC, one of the main
ingredients in marijuana is already available in pill form--it is useful
for treating nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy, and as an appetite
stimulant for people with wasting syndromes --such as AIDS. valley vista - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: Why do you have a loss of memory after doing
drugs? Steve
Grant: Good question. Some drugs interfere with the way the
brain forms memories. Drugs like Alcohol, marijuana, and anti-anxiety drugs such as Valium (diazepam),
alprazolam, or Ambien are well known to impair memory. kiara - Parkdale High School,
Maryland: why do drugs make you do bad things and forget what
happened the next day? Also What Causes You To Not Remember What Happened The
Pervious Night? Steve
Grant: One thing that some drugs are known to do is alter the
way the brain works when you have to make a decision. For example, you may not
consider the long term consequences of your actions or think that bad things
won't happen to you. Drugs like alcohol or sedatives/anti-anxiety drugs like Valium
(diazepam) and similar drugs (Ativan, alprazolam) as well as cannabis (marijuana) have direct effects on the way that the brain forms
memories, and using those drugs may lead you to not remember what you did soon
after taking them. 22kickz - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: should peoplewith asthma smoke any knids of drugs?
Ivan
Montoya: Because asthma lowers the oxygen that goes into the
lungs--and cigarette smoke enters the lungs, too--people with asthma should not
smoke at all. It has been demostrated that smoking can worsen asthma. In fact,
smoking worsens health in general. Keep your body healthy--don't
start! Thanks for your question. Radke - Cashmere High School,
Washington: What kinds of medicines are used to cure addiction?
Redonna
Chandler: Terrific question and one that is very important to
NIDA. We currently have medications to treat alcohol, nicotine, and opiate addiction. For alcohol the
medications used include: Antabuse, Depot Naltrexone, and Acamprosate. For
smoking medications include: Zyban, Niccotine Replacement Therapies (gum, spray,
patch), and Vareniciline. For opiate addiction medications include:
Methadone and Buprenorphine. NIDA is currently trying to develop
medications to treat marijuana, cocaine, and methamaphetamine addiction. Hope this helps. Morgan Mancini - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: My friend smokes pot is there anwyay to
convince him to stop? Steve
Grant: I suggest that you encourage your friend to talk to a
school counselor or aother trusted adult. There are a lot of resources
available for people who want to stop using drugs. One thing to point out to
your friend is that there is evidence that many people who used marijuana for long periods of time will eventually come to
regret their use and realize that they did not achieve much in their
life. That might be a good place to start.To find general information on substance abuse prevention and treatment, three good starting points would be the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Web site, http://www.samhsa.gov/; NIDA InfoFacts, containing results of the annual 'Monitoring the Future' survey on youth trends in drug use; and the Drug Abuse Warning Network, with statistics on drug-related hospital emergency department visits and deaths at http://dawninfo.samhsa.gov/.
casagrannde - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: How do drug tests know if you have been high
or not? Ivan
Montoya: Drug tests can tell if a person has or hasn't used a
certain amount of a drug, but they can't tell if a person
has been high or not. kathryn+hailey - Wilson Central
High School, Tennessee: How do you know so much about drugs and
alcohol? Kevin
Conway: Well, I am a scientist who studies drug abuse. Part
of my job requires that I read scientific papers about drug abuse, and so I
learn from reading those papers. The science of drug abuse is a
really fascinating field and it includes learning about how the brain functions,
which is fascinating. Because drug abuse affects nearly everybody in one
way or another, becoming a drug abuse researcher is a highly rewarding
profession. Maybe you will consider it! starfish - Dixie High School,
Utah: is it possible to not get addicted to drugs if you use them
more than once? Ivan
Montoya: Yes, there are some drugs that can be highly
addictiveso that just using them a few time can produce an addiction. For
example, heroin
is highly addictive. There is a lot we still don't know about who becomes
addicted and why, and after how much drug exposure. We do know that each person
is different, so it's a little like playing 'Russian Roulette' if you choose to
use drugs. But, if you do, the earlier you stop, the more likely you will be to
avoid addiction and the harmful brain changes that lead to it. Check out
our teen website for more info: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ saynotodrugs - Rockville High
School, Maryland: If you were once addicted to drugs, but have
stopped, does your body still the permanent effects? Steve Grant: Excellent question.
Current research has shown that drugs can cause changes in brain cells that can
last long after the drug leaves the body. Some of the functions
affected can go back to normal after a short time, but some can last for
days or months after the last time you take the drug. We don't know if
there are permanent changes, but the fact that drugs can produce
long-lasting effects is one of the best reasons for not starting drug use at
all. mynameiswha - Port Chester High
School, New York: What happens to your body when you smoke
mariquana and drink alcohol? Stephanie
Older: Marijuana: Within minutes of inhaling, a user can begin to feel
"high," or filled with pleasant sensations. THC triggers brain cells to release
the chemical dopamine. Dopamine creates good feelings - for a short time. But
that's just one effect Marijuana, like most other drugs, affects the parts of
the brain that allow us to make plans, solve problems, and make decisions.
In the longer term, you can become addicted to marijuana. Alcohol: Alcohol affects every organ in the drinker's body and can damage a developing fetus. Intoxication can impair brain function and motor skills; heavy use can increase risk of certain cancers, stroke, and liver disease.
These are just some of the effects of both. For more information check out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_mj1.php and http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/Alcohol.html. Also, here's a short video on marijuana: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/video.php?video=Bb2_JjdAZ3M.
IlVl NOT U - Willow Canyon High
School, Arizona: my dad smokes and drinks how bad is that?? please
respond. Redonna
Chandler: Thanks for your question. Dealing with parental drug
abuse is tough and I know this from first hand experience. When I was
living with a father who had a drinking problem I needed friends I could
talk to that I could trust. You can talk to a friend or school counsler
that can provide you with support by listening and by helping to make sure
you aren't impacted negatively by your dad's drug use. For example, when
my father would drink I would make sure I didn't ride with him in the
car and arranged for friends or their parents to take me places.
Also, I talked with my school guidance counselor and participated in a
local Al-Anon program for teens (Alateen) whose parents used drugs.
There I found additional support on how to deal with my father's drug
use from people having the same experience. You can access more
information including: information on how to help someone stop using drugs
see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7,
and for more information about Alateen see:http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen S.H. - Rockville High School,
Maryland: ...IS IT TRUE THAT TODAY'S MARIJUANA IS "STRONGER" THAN
THE MARIJUANA USED IN THE PAST DECADES ??? Susan Weiss: Yes. This is based on
measures of the marijuana seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration
(DEA). THC is the main active ingredient in marijuana, and the average
amount of THC in marijuana was about 3.5% in the 1980's and is close to 10% in
recent years. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: why does your body want more of the drug
after u try it the first time Kevin
Conway: This can happen for a couple of reasons. First,
drugs can cause craving - an intense need to use the drug. This happens
because drugs stimulate 'pleasure centers' in the brain. When pleasure center
are stimulated people want to use drugs over and over again to cause the
same pleasure. Second, people who use drugs can develop tolerance to the
drug. Tolerance is a change in the brain that causes a
greater amount of a drug is needed to achieve the drug's effect.
Both of these are indicators of addiction. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what does shrooms do?? David Shurtleff:
'Shrooms' are Psilocybin mushrooms that cause hallucinations - profound distortions in the perception of reality.
Under the influence of hallucinogens, people see images, hear sounds, and feel sensations that seem
real but do not exist. Some hallucinogens also produce rapid, intense emotional
swings and result in fear and anxiety, which can be terrifying to people.
Hallucinogens cause their effects by disrupting the interaction of nerve cells
and the neurotransmitter serotonin. The effect can last as little as several
hours and and as long as days, months, or years after taking the
drug. For more information about drugs and LSD, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/!
zeroskater601 - Junction City High
School, Oregon: why are some medications and/or drugs easier to
get addicted to compared to others Steve
Grant: Good question. In general, medications are safe when
taken as prescribed to treat a specific medical condition and under the
supervision of a doctor. The risk of becoming addicted to medications rises
when these medications are misused. For example, when you take a higher dose of
opiate analgesics than what the doctor gave you after extracting a molar, or
when you sell the ritalin (that you use for your ADHD) to a friend
that wants to cram for an exam. The reason that these and other medications can
become agents of addiction when misused in these ways is that many drugs
that act in the brain can cause long lasting changes in the brain cells or
neurons if not used for a specific medical purpose. When you stop taking
the drug, the brain cells are still changed and that can lead you to feel
sick both physically or psychologicaly. Taking the drug makes you feel
better again, but once you stop you get even more sick. So you end up in
this downward spiral. volleyball girl - Dixie High
School, Utah: Can anti depressents become addictive? Ivan Montoya: No. Antidepressants do not
appear to produce addiction. Learn more about the science of addiction
at http://www.drugabuse.gov/ScienceofAddiction/ Ray - Parkdale High School,
Maryland: how does alcohol affect the liver? Harold Perl: Hi and thanks for asking
a great question. The liver is one of the largest and
most complex organs in the body. It stores vital energy and nutrients,
manufactures proteins and enzymes necessary for good health, protects the body
from disease, and breaks down (or metabolizes) and helps remove harmful toxins,
like alcohol, from the body. Because the liver is the chief
organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol, it is especially vulnerable to
alcoholrelated injury. Even as few as three drinks at one time may harm the
liver when combined with certain overthecounter medications, such as those
containing acetaminophen (like Tylenol). You can get more information on
alcohol at the website of our sister agency, the National Institute on Alcohol
Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at: www.niaaa.nih.gov. They
also have a special site for teens at www.thecoolspot.gov lilwayne - Upper Dublin High
School, Pennsylvania: Is God real? Because when I snort herione i
see him. Joni
Rutter: Upper Dublin, What's Up!?This question is a first!! I've not heard that one of the side effects of heroin is seeing God (what's He look like anyway?), but I have heard that the short-term effects of heroin include a surge of euphoria and clouded thinking followed by alternately wakeful and drowsy states. Heroin depresses breathing, thus, overdose can be fatal--at this point, you may actually meet God! Users who inject the drug risk contracting infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. If you find that you want to stop using drugs, or ever get scared because you use them, consider talking to someone at this phone number: 1-800-273-TALK. They can help, and you deserve a life free of drugs. Also, if you want to seek treatment, the following website can help you locate a treatment facility in your area: http://www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov/. Good luck!
KaitlynnZ - Einstein High School,
Maryland: My aunt has been somking and drinking for decades. The
family and i always try to tell her that she has a problem but she is in great
denial. She drinks packs of beers everyday. What can we do to help her before
she kills her self. Harold
Perl: Hello. Thanks for asking a question that I know
is very important to you. You sound pretty worried and I'm sure that you
want to help your aunt in any way that you can. You and your
family may already have tried talking to her about your concerns. Have you
asked her to get some professional help or to attend a self-help group such as
Alcoholics Anonymous? It is just as important that you be able to
talk about your own worries with other members of your family or trusted adults
such as a teacher, a school counselor, or a minister or rabbi. A group
called Alateen helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects
of living with a relative or friend who abuses alcohol. Their website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
Here is a website for teens that will give you information about alcohol
abuse: http://www.thecoolspot.gov/. Whatever you
do, try to learn as much as you can about drug and alcohol addiction
and find someone to help you deal with such a serious problem. Take
good care, and good luck to you, your aunt, and your family. vvhs - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: cAN yOU hAVE fLASHBACKS fROM sMOKING wEED? Nancy Pilotte: There are a lot of things
that happen because of using marijuana and many of them are related to short-term memory
loss or making poor decisions. However, marijuana has not been reported to
cause flashbacks. You can find out more about marijuana at http://www.marijuana-info.org/. mstrpain(betty) - Dixie High
School, Utah: what can huffing be done with? David Shurtleff: Huffing involves
using an inhalant-soaked rag stuffed in the mouth - the inhaled chemicals
are rapidly absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream and quickly
distributed to the brain and other organs. Within seconds of inhalation, the
user experiences intoxication similar to alcohol intoxication. Sumptoms may include slurred speech,
uncoordination, euphoria, and dizziness. Users may also experience
lightheadedness, hallucinations, and delusions.But this is extremely dangerous! Huffing can cause irregular and rapid heart rhythms and lead to heart failure and death within minutes of a session of prolonged sniffing. This syndrome, known as 'sudden sniffing death,' can result from a single session of inhalant use by an otherwise healthy young person. Sudden sniffing death is particularly associated with the abuse of butane, propane, and chemicals in aerosols. Inhalant abuse also can cause death by asphyxiation - from repeated inhalations, which lead to high concentrations of inhaled fumes displacing the available oxygen in the lungs. It can also lead to suffocation - by blocking air from entering the lungs when inhaling fumes from a plastic bag placed over the head. It can also cause convulsions or seizures due to disruptions in the brain, coma, and choking (from inhalation of vomit after inhalant use).
For more information about inhalants, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php.
music - Dixie High School,
Utah: How do you convince someone you love not to smoke without
hurting their feelings? Ivan
Montoya: Well, it requires good communication and finding the
right time when the person can be more open to suggestions. It's good not to be
judgemental and to use scientific facts to show the person of the dangers of
smoking. You can find good information about the health consequences of smoking
at http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/ brit - Kingswood Middle School, New
Hampshire: is coffee addictive Ruben Baler:
Not in the sense of producing harm to your brain or body; although high doses can you make you anxious and irritable, and there are some health conditions that are irritated by caffeine. But people do become tolerant to caffeine's effects--that means that their body adapts to caffeine and they need more of it to get the same alerting effect. It also means that when a regular user stops they can experience withdrawal symptoms--usually mild headaches. These are typically short lived--1 or 2 days. Some people don't get tolerant--they actually get more sensitive to caffeine's effects with repeated use. Many of these people don't drink caffeine because it makes them too jittery and nervous.
freeman-jones - Dr. Henry A. Wise
Jr. High School, Maryland: How can taking ritalin affect you if
you have not been prescribed ritalin? Redonna
Chandler: Dear Freeman-Jones,Yes, Ritalin affects the brain and behavior and should only be taken while under the care of a physician. Ritalin is a stimulant prescribed for people with ADHD. As seen with amphetamines, including Adderall, numerous studies have shown its effectiveness when used as prescribed. When it is abused, however, methylphenidate can lead to many of the same problems seen with other stimulants. More information about prescription drug abuse can be found at http://www.nida.nih.gov/drugpages/prescription.html. More information about the consequences of stimulant abuse can be found at:http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_stim1.php .
Hope this helps and thanks for your question.
MUHSTIGERS - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: In what country is marijuana use most prevalent
among teens? Ivan
Montoya: It has been reported that marijuana use is very frequently used in countries in the
Caribbean. Contrary to popular belief, most teenagers in the U.S. do not use
marijuana. Among students surveyed in a yearly national survey, only about one
in seven 10th graders report they are current marijuana users (which means they
used marijuana within the past month). Fewer than one in five high school
seniors is a current marijuana user. NIDA research indicates that in 2008, 12
percent of high school seniors admitted to driving under the influence of
marijuana in the two weeks prior to the survey. Drugs can alter perception,
attention, balance, coordination and other abilities needed for safe driving. rose - Carmichaels Area,
Pennsylvania: can an alcoholic actually recover? Harold Perl: Hi. Thanks for your
question -- this is something that many people wonder about. Many
people believe that someone addicted to alcohol cannot ever recover. However, many people with
alcohol problems, including alcoholism, can stop drinking, or reduce their
drinking to less harmful levels. You can get more information on
alcohol at the website of our sister agency, the National Institute on Alcohol
Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at: www.niaaa.nih.gov. They
also have a special site for teens at www.thecoolspot.gov and another site with tips and
strategies for stopping at http://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/.
Thanks again for your great question and keep 'em coming! Drugs are bad - Dixie High School,
Utah: What drug in Utah is the most used? Joni Rutter: Hi Dixie High,What do you think?
1) Alcohol
2) Cigarettes
3) Meth
The correct answer is alcohol, which is one of the most commonly used and abused drugs in the US!
Inhaled butane, found in
cigarette lighters and refills, makes the heart extra-sensitive to:- myelin
- noradrenaline
- the hippocampus
- romance
kitty_16 - Einstein High School,
Maryland: Can someone who has only smoked 1 or 3 times become
addicted in the future? Kevin
Conway: Anybody can become addicted if they use drugs on a
regular basis. And, if drug use starts early (like during childhood
or adolescence) then the risk of addiction increases later in
life. So, it is best not to use drugs at all. aolinger - Junction City High
School, Oregon: what drugs are considered hallucinogens?
Gaya
Dowling: LSD is one of the main drugs that people are referring to when
they talk about hallucinogens. Mushrooms, that contain psilocybin, are another.
As you can tell by the name, hallucinogens are drugs that cause hallucinations
- people see images, hear sounds, and feel sensations that seem real but
do not exist. For more information on hallucinations go to http://drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/Hallucinogens/halluc2.html casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: what is in drugs that cause pregnant womens
children to have birth defects? Joni
Rutter: Hola Casa Grande!In general, commonly abused drugs are not teratogens (chemicals that cause birth defects). That doesn't mean the baby won't be harmed by drugs, though. There are many effects that drugs can have on fetuses. There are some drugs that when used during pregnancy can result in an infant being born addicted and going through a period of withdrawal. Opiates (including heroin, methadone, morphine, and prescription pain killers like vicodin or oxycotin) are an example. After the period of withdrawal, these babies are often okay, although it's not very comfortable for them when they are withdrawing.
Researchers are trying to figure out whether exposure to drugs including alcohol during pregnancy might make you more vulnerable to getting addicted when you are older. One researcher has found that if a mom smokes while she is pregnant, her child may be more likely to use tobacco when they become teenagers, and to become addicted if they use it. Of course, there are other effects of alcohol use during pregnancy that are very alarming. We know from research that alcohol (including both beer and liquor) can seriously harm the baby of a mother who drinks during pregnancy, causing a variety of health problems including a disorder called fetal alcohol syndrome. For more details about all the birth defects associated with fetal alcohol syndrome, check out this link: http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa50.htm. Because of this we recommend moms not use alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, or other drugs during pregnancy and ask for help from a health care professional if they are having trouble stopping.
W@ckyW!z@rd97 - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: How long does it take for you to get
off of your addiction once you get addicted? Redonna Chandler: Wow great question and I
wish we knew the answer. Truth is that the amount of treatment needed to
address addiction varies from person-to-person. It depends on a number of
factors including the length of time they have been using drugs, amount of drugs
they use, age when they began using drugs, and consequences drug use has had on
their life, relationships, academic and work life, family, etc. Research
indicates that most people need a minimum of 90 days of treatment but some may
need more and others perhaps less. Regardless of length of treatment
seeking help is an important step. More informaiton on seeking treatment
can be found at: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_brain2.php#deal Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Why is it that a pregnate woman can only
drink red wine?? why not all or nothing?? Harold Perl: Welcome Arizona to the NIDA
chat day! You bring up an interesting and important question. Some
people may think that drinking red wine is OK for a pregnant woman.
However, a glass of wine, a can of beer, and a mixed drink all have about
the same amount of alcohol. When a woman is pregnant, her baby
grows inside her, so everything she eats and drinks affects her baby. Drinking
alcohol can hurt the baby's growth and may cause physical and behavioral
problems that can last for the rest of the baby's life. Children born with the
most serious problems caused by alcohol have fetal alcohol
syndrome. Most importantly, a pregnant woman should discuss
the issue of drinking during pregnancy with her doctor or health care
provider. Check out the website of our sister agency, the National
Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). They focus on the
problems caused by drinking alcohol and have a great site for teens at www.thecoolspot.gov. And thanks again for
your thoughtful question. HockeyGirl#99 - Kingswood Middle
School, New Hampshire: Do smelly markers effect your brain
David
Shurtleff: Some can make you "high" depending
on the chemical used. The high would be caused by the release of dopamine in the
reward areas of the brain, and the high would resemble alcohol intoxication. The problem is that some of these
chemicals are toxic--they can produce a loss of sensation, and even
unconsciousness if taken in high concentrations! With repeated use they can
irreversibly result in hearing loss, limb spasms, and brain or bone marrow
damage. Sniffing high concentrations of inhalants may result in death from heart failure or suffocation
(inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs)-not good!For more information about drugs, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/!
myhuele - Einstein High School,
Maryland: whats PCP? Joni
Rutter: Einstein, you guys are on the ball!PCP is phencyclidine. PCP is a 'dissociative' drug, that can cause hallucinogenic 'out of body' feelings of detachment and distort perceptions of sight and sound. Users PCP can experience several unpleasant psychological effects, with symptoms mimicking schizophrenia (delusions, hallucinations, disordered thinking, extreme anxiety). Scary stuff! For more information, see: http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/pcp.html and http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/rrhalluc.pdf
STARS COUNSELOR - Wilson Central
High School, Tennessee: How do drugs increase the likelihood that
a person may commit suicide? Redonna
Chandler: Dear Stars Counselor, Yes, drug abuse increases the
likelihood that an individual will commit suicide. That is, drug abusers
are more likely to commit suicide than people who don't abuse drugs. For
example, marijuana use has been associated with a number of mental
conditions, including schizophrenia (psychosis), depression, anxiety, and
suicidal ideation or attempts. Drugs also affect memory, judgment,
and perception and can lead people to do things they wouldn't do if they weren't
under the influence of drugs - including attempt suicide. For information
on suicide see: (1-800-273-TALK), a crisis hotline that can help with a lot
of issues, not just suicide. For addiction treatment see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov beastly dude - Lakeview Middle
School, Michigan: IF SOMBUDY CLOSE TO ME IS DOING DRUGS UNDERAGE
AND ELAGL WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY PARANTS DONT KNOW AND HE DEPENDS ON ME TO KEEP
THE SECRET AND I WANT THAT WHATE TO GO AWAY Kevin Conway: If you think that your friend
has a drug problem, then you should do what you can to help him. Try
talking directly to your friend about his problem, and then see if you and your
friend can discuss this with somebody you can trust (parent, teacher) to
provide your friend with the help he needs.For more information see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/
chachabunny - Kingswood Middle
School, New Hampshire: do drug kill your brain cells? Steve Grant: Good questions. Some
drugs, like alcohol, can have a toxic effect on brain
cells. Also, ecstasy has been shown to kill a specific subset of neurons
when given over long periods to monkeys. Most drugs, though, produce
changes in the way that brain cells function, and those changes can last a long
time after the drug effects wear off and the drug is no longer in your
body. However, even though the brain cells have not died, the drug has
caused a change in the way the cells function, and the more times you do the
drug, the longer those changes can last. mooky - Benjamin Franklin Academics
Plus, Pennsylvania: if you use drugs about 3 times a week does
that nessarily means your addicted to it Kevin Conway: Using drugs several times
per week doesn't necessarily mean that you are addicted, but you are
placing yourself at risk for addiction. The more drugs you use (and
especially if you use them frequently), the more risk you are for getting
addicted. And if you have a hard time quitting, then you
should certainly seek help. In addition to cancer, smoking causes lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and it has been found to exacerbate asthma symptoms in adults and children. About 90 percent of all deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are attributable to cigarette smoking. It has also been well documented that smoking substantially increases the risk of heart disease, including stroke, heart attack, vascular disease, and aneurysm. Smoking causes coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States: cigarette smokers are 24 times more likely to develop coronary heart disease than nonsmokers.
WEEDISNTGOOD95 - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: my uncle done drugs before and
dealed before does that mean im gonna do drugs when i grow up cause i spend alot
of time w/him Nancy
Pilotte: That is a really great question, but it does not have an
easy answer. You are partly shaped by the people you hang with and your
environment, but whether you use drugs when you grow up or not probably depends
on your own personality and will ultimately be a choice. Many
people who spend time with relatives who use drugs do not grow up to use
them--think about kids who grow up with parents who smoke, but they themselves
never do. You may be more or less prone to addiction because of your
genetics, so it would be safest to never use drugs of abuse or misuse drugs to
being with. The best way to keep from falling into the drug use trap is to
keep busy with things that interest you--then you don't have the time or the
inclination to use drugs. If you would like more information about drugs or helping people who use drugs, check out http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/.
synthia_craig - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: can u get high off a marker
David
Shurtleff: Some can make you 'high' depending on the chemical
used--and the high would resemble alcohol intoxication. The problem is that some of these
chemicals are toxic--they can produce a loss of sensation, and even
unconsciousness if taken in high concentrations! With repeated use they can
irreversibly result in hearing loss, limb spasms, and brain or bone marrow
damage. Sniffing high concentrations of inhalants may result in death from heart failure or suffocation
(inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs)-not good!For more information about drugs, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/!
David - Presque Isle High
School, Maine: why is it that when your high everythings so funny
Joni
Rutter: Presque Isle...what's up?!Let's see...I laugh all the time, but I don't get high. I'm a geneticist and I love what I do, so I'm just happy in general. Seriously though, drug abuse and addiction are a major burden to society. Estimates of the total overall costs of substance abuse in the United States - including health and crime-related costs and losses in productivity - exceed half a trillion dollars annually. This includes approximately $181 billion for illicit drugs, $168 billion for tobacco, and $185 billion for alcohol. That's a LOT of donuts, baby! And as staggering as these numbers are, however, they in now way can reflect the depth of the deleterious effects on public health and safety drug use incurs, including its effects on family disintegration, loss of employment, failure in school, domestic violence, child abuse, and other crimes.
i<3marchingband - Valley Vista
High School, Arizona: what is tetrahydrocannabinol? Ruben
Baler: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC for short is
the main active chemical in marijuana that is responsible for its effects on mood,
perception, appetite, etc. MUHSTIGERS - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: How does being high on heroin differ from being
high on weed or coke? Stephanie
Older: Heroin: Short-term effects of heroin include a surge of
euphoria and clouded thinking followed by alternately wakeful and drowsy states.
Heroin depresses breathing, thus, an overdose can be fatal. Users who inject the
drug risk infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.Marijuana: For some people, smoking marijuana makes them feel good. Within minutes of inhaling, a user begins to feel "high," or filled with pleasant sensations. THC triggers brain cells to release the chemical dopamine. Dopamine creates good feelings - for a short time. But that's just one effect (there are adverse effects too).
Cocaine: Cocaine usually makes the user feel euphoric and energetic, but also increases body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. Users risk heart attacks, respiratory failure, strokes, seizures, abdominal pain, and nausea. In rare cases, sudden death can occur on the first use of cocaine or unexpectedly afterwards.
Josh - Theodore Roosevelt High
School, Ohio: Is it true you do better on tests when your high?
Steve
Grant: That is a very important question. The short answer
is that you may think you did better (i.e., you feel more confident), but you
may not have actually performed any better. In fact, chances are that you
may havwell de actuallt done significantly worse because you rushed and
spent less time checking your answers. smithpn - Phoenixville Area High
School, Pennsylvania: what is the most commonly used drug in the
US? Jacqueline
Lloyd: Hello. The most commonly used drug among youth 12-17 is alcohol. Among 12-17 year olds, in the past year 31% used
alcohol, 19% used tobacco, and 19% used illicit drugs. For more information on drug use in general go to http://oas.samhsa.gov/nsduh/reports.htm
samuel672 - Phoenixville Area High
School, Pennsylvania: on average how many people smoke pot in the
U.S.? Jacqueline
Lloyd: Hello there. Good questions. In the U.S. about 26 million
people smoked marijuana among those 12 years or older. This is about 10% of
the population. student - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: who smokes the most teenagers or
adults? Jacqueline
Lloyd: Hi! Good question. Young adults are more
likely to use tobacco. In 2008, 19% of youth 12-17 reported tobacco use in
the past year and 52% of young adults 18-25 reported past year use. For
more information on drug use among youth and adults go to http://oas.samhsa.gov/NSDUH/2k8NSDUH/tabs/TOC.htm Jdoggcrash - South Middle School,
West Virginia: i keep making my friend's dogs smoke pot should i
countinue doing that Cindy
Miner: No, you should stop. BigBoy94 - Einstein High School,
Maryland: what could happen if a minor got caught with alcohol ay
a party where everyone else could drink legally Larry Stanford: Although a minor may be at
party where drinking is legally taking place, it is not legal for the minor to
drink. So the consequences could be whatever the law would dictate in that
locality. There might also be legal consequences for the person who allowed the
underage person to drink. jmq17 - Rockville High School,
Maryland: what drug do you think a student with very aggressive
behavior does? Steve
Grant: Hi. Good question. A number of drugs can lead
to aggressive behavior including alcohol, stimulants (amphetamine, methamphetamine, cocaine), PCP (angel dust) and steroids. In fact some people exhibit aggression
after sedative drugs such as anti-anxiety drugs such diazepam (Valium) and
related drugs (Ativan) so it would be hard to tell which drug a person has
taken just because they became aggressive. bsb10 - Rockville High School,
Maryland: My sisters use perscription drugs to get high how can I
help them stop using perscription drugs? Cheryl Boyce: I am so sorry to hear that
your sisters have a problem with prescription drugs. They can call
1800 273 TALK to get help with use of prescription drugs. Some teens,
especially girls, may take prescription drugs to feel 'high', have better
attention, or to relieve pain. Even this type of use is considered
"abuse" and is illegal since the drug was not prescribed for that
person. Not only is it illegal but it might end up affecting your health.
Even if you follow the directions on the label, those instructions were written
for someone else. For example, different body weights require different
dosages for many medicines. I hope that your sisters get help.
Here's what one of our staff wrote about her experience with prescription drugs:
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/life-is-complicated-enough-why-add-prescription-drugs-to-the-mix/ aubslesgucci - Lima Central
Catholic High School, Ohio: how bad will your brain be affected if
you smoke marajunia over a period of 2 years consistantly Ruben Baler: Everyone is different--so its
hard to say for sure. You risk becoming addicted, and we don't yet
understand all the effects marijuana has on the developing brain (which is ongoing
til your early 20s). The research suggests possible changes in
vulnerability to other drug addiction, emotional or mental problems, and
learning and memory deficits that may keep you from reaching your full
potential. But--as I said--we don't know for sure and everyone is
different--so its not too late to change this pattern and get help. You
may not think you need it, but many people who are regular marijuana smokers go
through withdrawal when they try to stop--feeling tired, anxious, irritable and
having strong cravings for the drug. This can make it hard to stop.
There is treatment available, and some places that specialize in
adolescents. By clicking on the link 'Students and Young Adults' from NIDA's home page http://www.drugabuse.gov/ you will be able to access resources tailored for students and young adults , and if you need help, you will also find a link there to the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
Please welcome Dr. Kevin
Conway. Dr. Conway is the deputy director of NIDA's Division of
Division of Epidemiology, Services, and Prevention Research, and studies the
epidemiology and genetics of drug abuse. His scientific interests include the
causes of drug addiction, as well as psychopathology and violence. When he is
not chasing his two little kids, he likes to play basketball, tennis, and
ultimate Frisbee. Dr. Larry Stanford
is now participating in the Chat. He is the deputy director of NIDA's Division
of Clinical Neuroscience and Behavioral Research, which supports studies of the
development of the human brain and behavior. Prior to coming to NIDA, Dr.
Stanford ran a research program in visual neurobiology at the University of
Wisconsin. His hobbies are motorcycling and working on motorcycles and
cars. Dr. Steven Grant
will now join in. Dr. Grant is a neuroscientist with a background in biology,
chemistry, and physics. Although his favorite subjects in high school were
English and History, he developed a liking and aptitude for science in college
and went on to do post-doctoral work in brain systems and drug withdrawal. The
study he is most proud of is a brain imaging study of cocaine craving which demonstrated that substance abuse
involved more than the brain areas traditionally thought to be part of drug use,
and opened the door to investigating the contribution of other cognitive
processes in addiction. In his spare time, he likes to read a wide variety of
fiction and non-fiction books and is interested in the performing arts. He has
two daughters - one just starting college and one who graduated last
year. billy - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: what percentage of teenagers partake in
underage drinking? Mark
Greene: This information is taken from the National Survey on Drug
Use and Health: National FindingsIn 2008, rates of current alcohol use were 3.4 percent among persons aged 12 or 13, 13.1 percent of persons aged 14 or 15, 26.2 percent of 16 or 17 year olds, 48.7 percent of those aged 18 to 20, and 69.5 percent of 21 to 25 year olds (Figure 3.1). These estimates showed significant declines from 2007 for the 14 or 15 year olds (from 14.7 to 13.1 percent) and for the 16 or 17 year olds (from 29.0 to 26.2 percent).
lilmisspunkster - Landmark Academy,
Michigan: why do people think doing drugs is cool? Joni Rutter: Hi Landmark, I definitely don't think that doing drugs is cool and I don't why anyone else would think drug use is cool...Drug abuse and addiction are a major burden to society. Estimates of the total overall costs of substance abuse in the United States - including health and crime-related costs and losses in productivity - exceed half a trillion dollars annually. This includes approximately $181 billion for illicit drugs, $168 billion for tobacco, and $185 billion for alcohol. That's a LOT of Benjamins, dough, papers! Whatever you call it, that's a lot of money! And as staggering as these numbers are, however, they in now way can reflect the depth of the deleterious effects on public health and safety drug use incurs, including its effects on family disintegration, loss of employment, failure in school, domestic violence, child abuse, and other crimes.
ooga booga - Willow Canyon High
School, Arizona: my mom is a complete alcoholic and she went to
rehab for it a few weeks ago, she seems fine but could she go back to drinking?
Mark
Greene: There is a risk for anyone who has been in rehab to go
back to drinking. It is so important that those closest, family and
friends, provide support. They may also need support themselves. A good source
of infomation for people in families where another family member has a drinking
problem is:http://www.al-anon.org/
hubby0615 - Willow Canyon High
School, Arizona: what is angel dust Joe Frascella: Angel dust is a slang name
for phencyclidine, PCP, which was developed in the 1950's as an intravenous
surgical anesthetic. This drug is classified as dissociative anesthetic
that can cause hallucinogenic 'out of body' feelings of detachment.For more information on this and other related drugs, check out: http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/rrhalluc.pdf
casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: how do you help someone from going into
relapse Redonna
Chandler: Thanks for a good question. Statistically speaking
about 40-60% of people who go through treatment relapse. You can support
someone who has completed treatment by listening to them when they need an ear,
letting them express their feelings when they need a shoulder, offering to spend
time with them in activities that don't involve the use of drugs or people who
use drugs, and recommending they seek help when they crave drugs. For more
information on relapse and treatment see:http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_brain2.php#dealHope this is helpful.
rcmhs014 - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: Do wine have the same afect on you as
drinking beer Harold
Perl: Hello to Georgia! You ask a very good question -- it is one
that many people wonder about. Some people think that wine is less harmful
than beer or other so-called 'hard' liquor. But the truth is that all
alcoholic beverages contain the same chemical called 'ethanol.' The
only difference between the different drinks is the percentage of ethanol that
each contains. So, the answer to your question is that drinking any kind
of alcohol -- including wine -- is harmful at a young age.
Teen brains are still developing -- in fact, our brains keep developing until at
least the mid-20's. Alcohol can harm the brain even more during this
developmental period. And research shows that persons who start
drinking early in life are much more likely to develop alcohol use problems
later in life, including alcohol addiction, or alcoholism.
Please check out the website of our sister agency,
the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). They
focus on the problems caused by drinking alcohol and have a great site for teens
at www.thecoolspot.gov. Thanks for asking and keep those
great questions coming in! moorece - Phoenixville Area High
School, Pennsylvania: what is the most common drug used in the
U.S? Jacqueline
Lloyd: Hello. The most commonly used drug among youth 12-17 is alcohol. Among 12-17 year olds, in the past year 31% used
alcohol, 19% used tobacco, and 19% used illicit drugs. For more information on drug use in general go to http://oas.samhsa.gov/nsduh/reports.htm
areay - Cashmere High School,
Washington: What is GHB?? Gaya Dowling: GHB is a central
nervous system (CNS) depressant--that means that it can slow down activity in
the brain. GHB is known as a date rape drug because it can be added to beverages
and ingested unbeknownst to the victim and can incapacitate them and prevent
them from resisting sexual assault. Sterndrewguy - South Middle School,
West Virginia: My friend always comes to my house and makes my dog
smoke pot. What do I do? Cindy
Miner: He doesn't seem like a very good friend to me. If
someone was doing that to my dogs, I wouldn't invite him over ever again. quackoinkmoo - Dixie High School,
Utah: I know someone who has been drinking for a while and when
they drink they become aggressive and depressed. Why do they do that? Most
people seem to laugh a lot but this person just becomes angry and cries a lot.
Harold
Perl: Hi. You ask a very interesting
question. You sound kind of worried and I'm sure that you want
to help your friend in any way that you can. Alcohol can affect people in different ways, so it is hard to
know why some people who drink get silly while others get unhappy.
You could try talking to your friend about your concerns about his
drinking and ask him to get some professional help or to attend a self-help
group such as Alcoholics Anonymous. It is important that you be able to
talk about your worries with your mom or dad, or another trusted adult such as
an aunt or uncle, a teacher, a school counselor, or a minister or rabbi. A
group called Alateen helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the
effects of living with a relative or friend who abuses alcohol. Their
website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
Here is a website for teens that will give you information about alcohol
abuse: www.thecoolspot.gov. Thanks for logging in to the chat
day and good luck to you, and your friend. spongebob - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: what has been the worst case of drug use abuse
you've seen in your life? Cheryl
Boyce: Hi there in Texas. Drug abuse, particularly when
it leads to addiction, is awful for anyone who experiences
it. Drug abuse can cause harmful and long-term changes to people's
brains and bodies, as well as damage their relationships with friends
and families. It can also lead to arrest and jail--no fun. Keep your
brain healthy! mj45 - South Middle School, West
Virginia: The government has talked about making cigarettes in
some places of West Virginia illegal, but they havent yet and I think they
should, Do you think they ever will? Cindy
Miner: I think its very likely. Smoking is being banned in
more and more communities across the country. As a result, smoking rates
among young people are at the lowest rates ever! Morgan Mancini - Crestwood High
School, Pennsylvania: What percentage of my friends truely smokes
marijuana? Stephanie
Older: Contrary to popular belief, most teenagers do not use marijuana. Among students surveyed in a yearly national survey,
only about one in seven 10th graders report they are current marijuana users
(which means they used marijuana within the past month). Fewer than one in five
high school seniors is a current marijuana user. NIDA research indicates that in
2008, 12 percent of high school seniors admitted to driving under the influence
of marijuana in the two weeks prior to the survey. Drugs can alter perception,
attention, balance, coordination and other abilities needed for safe driving. babycakes123 - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: i have tried weed before but i have
not experienced the bad things people always tell me about why is that?
David
Shurtleff: Problems can results with continued use, which it can
result in addictive compulsive use, and withdrawal symptoms that include sleep disturbances
and irritability. Research has linked chronic marijuana use to reduced capacity for motivation--the
ability maintain confidence and persevere in the pursuit of goals.
Marijuana can also impair memory and the ability to learn new information. You
may not have experienced some of these symptoms if you have only used marijuana
once or just a few times. For more information about marijuana, check out http://www.marijuana-info.org/.
Wind River High - Wind River High
School, Wyoming: do drugs affect day to day activities
Mark
Greene: Certainly taking drugs every day will result in effects on
day to day activities. The kinds of effects that you might see depend on
the kind of drugs taken, but can include both how well you think, how you
interact with people, how irritated you get over small things, coordination and
reaction time and other physical effects. And that's just to
start: someone who has taken enough of a drug to become addicted, seeking
and taking drugs may replace his or her previous day-to-day activities. Some
drugs can give false feelings that everything is going well even while they are
reducing the ability to deal with day to day activities. jesse - Parkdale High
School, Maryland: if a woman is pregnant is it good to drink
Cheryl
Boyce: Hi there....well, researchers have shown that alcohol can affect the pregnant woman and the fetus.
Drinking alcohol is not recommended for pregnant women because prenatal alcohol
damages specific areas of the brain. Using a technology called magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI), scientists have been able to view the brains
of children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). They found that
parts of the brain that regulate movement and cognitive processes related
to attention, perception, thinking, and memory are particularly sensitive to
prenatal alcohol exposure while other areas are not affected (see http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/). pk483303 - Rockville High School,
Maryland: after being in rehab, and being clean, what are the
chances that i will go back to doing it again?:/ Redonna Chandler: Dear PK483303,
Statistically speaking somewhere between 40-60% of those who complete drug
treatment relapse. Good addiction treatment recognizes that urges and
cravings to use drugs persist beyond treatment and help people prepare for this
fact. The good news is that relapse doesn't mean treatment failed or that
additional treatment won't be successful. Relapse is an indication that
additional treatment is needed. Maybe a new type of intervention needs to
be used or additional support from a professional is needed. It's just
like my grandmother's diabetes. Her blood sugar can be stable through
diet, exercise, and medication. However, that doesn't mean her blood sugar
won't ever spike again or that she won't need to see her physician for
additional treatment. So, if you or someone else who completes treatment
relapses don't give up and get more help. boytoy - Port Chester High School,
New York: Is there a drug that gets you high and isn't dangerous
for you? Stephanie
Older: Nope. Gff123 - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: My boyfriend used to thiz, or in other words take
ecstacy, he doesnt take it anymore, but can it still have an effect on him
today? David
Shurtleff: Ecstasy unfortunately
is not safe. Research conducted on animals has proven that MDMA damages specific neurons in the brain. This may be
reversed when you stop using, but it's not clear- so it's best to not use
this drug in the first place given its toxic effects on the
brain.For more information on drugs, check out http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/.
obedcruz - Martinsville High
School, Virginia: how many grams of cocaine do you need to OD?
Cheryl
Boyce: Hi there in Virginia! Cocaine is a very dangerous drug. Drugs can affect each
individual differently, so it is impossible to say a specific amount, but it
could be very small. Cocaine can constrict blood vessels, body
temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. In rare instances, sudden death can
occur on the first use of cocaine or unexpectedly thereafter, usually because of
disrupted heart rhythms. 'Zero' grams of cocaine is the best choice.
No one knows when an overdose can happen and then it can be too late.
There are treatment options for cocaine and other drugs. To learn more
see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/stimulants. ajohnson - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: ive been told that wine is good for you if you drink it
once in a while... why is that? Harold
Perl: Hi and thanks for a very important question. Some
research has suggested that moderate alcohol use can have some beneficial health effects, although
we are not sure how that helps. Even so, it is NOT recommended that a
person start to drink just to get some possible health benefits -- there are too
many other possible harmful effects that may occur. And any type of
alcohol can be especially harmful to teens and even young adults. You can
get more information on wine and other types of alcohol at the website of our
sister agency, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
at: http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/. They also have a
special site for teens at http://www.thecoolspot.gov/. Thanks again
and keep your questions rolling in. hotfatmonkeyman - Lakeview Middle
School, Michigan: do drugs affect the form of ur baby while ur
pregnant Joni
Rutter: What's up, Lakeview?!If you mean will your baby be deformed when he/she is born, it's not likely. However, if you are asking if drugs can affect how your baby develops during pregnancy, then absolutely--and not in a good way! In general, the earlier in pregnancy you take a drug, and the longer you keep taking drugs the more your baby will be affected. Alcohol and opioids (heroin, oxycotin and other prescription pain killers) are particularly harmful and might lead your baby to have withdrawal symptoms after birth. To learn more, check out 'The Science of Addiction' at http://www.nida.nih.gov/scienceofaddiction. For more information on alcohol abuse, go to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism at http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
manbearpig - Port Chester High
School, New York: what are the side effects of salvia?
Stephanie
Older: People who abuse Salvia generally experience hallucinations
or delusional episodes that mimic psychosis--this is concerning; particularly
when it comes to driving under the influence of salvia. Thisissparta - Landmark Academy,
Michigan: How do you perform a formal intervention in a persons
life that is close to you but may get firearms and explosives involved if you
say anything? Harold
Perl: Hi. Thanks for asking such an
important question. I know you must be very concerned
about this person. Of course you want to help and also make sure that
everyone is safe. Be sure not to do anything that could jeopardize your
own safety. It is important that you talk about this situation with your
parents, or with a trusted adult such as an aunt or uncle, a teacher, a school
counselor, or a minister or rabbi. I'm not clear on whether the person you
write about has a problem with alcohol or with another specific drug. For alcohol
issues: A group called Alateen helps families and friends of alcoholics
recover from the effects of living with a relative or friend who abuses
alcohol. Their website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen. You
can get more information about alcohol at the website of our sister agency,
the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at: www.niaaa.nih.gov. They also have a special
site for teens at www.thecoolspot.gov. Our own web site for teens has
information about other drugs of abuse at http://www.teens.drugabuse.gov/.
If you need immediate help, there is a hot line you can call --
1-800-273-TALK. The hotline staff can find local help for you.
Whatever you do, try to learn more about drug and alcohol addiction and find
someone to help you deal with such a serious problem. Take good care
and good luck. SaldanaHope - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: Can you get high off of sharpies? David Shurtleff: Some can make you 'high' depending on the chemical
used--and the high would resemble alcohol intoxication. The problem is that some of these
chemicals are toxic--they can produce a loss of sensation, and even
unconsciousness if taken in high concentrations! With repeated use they can
irreversibly result in hearing loss, limb spasms, and brain or bone marrow
damage. Sniffing high concentrations of inhalants may result in death from heart failure or suffocation
(inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs)-not good!For more information about drugs, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/!
unicorn - Kingswood Middle School,
New Hampshire: is there any drug that can make you smarter
Stephanie
Older: Stimulants such as Ritalin and Modafinil come to
mind. However, these drugs can also have adverse affects and be
addictive. Thus, prescription drugs should only be taken under the
direction and supervision of a doctor. For more information on stimulants,
check out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_stim1.php. jrobbins1460 - Willow Canyon High
School, Arizona: I live in a house full of smokers. Am I in danger
of getting lung cancer any faster than other people? Please respond, I am really
worried :( Cindy
Miner: Yes, second hand smoke exposure has been shown to have
serious medical consequences. Not only are the smokers damaging their own
health, they are putting the health of those they live with at risk as well. aracely - C.H. Yoe High School,
Texas: when you take drugs if you are young, then you quit and you
want to have family, the kid can born sick? Joni Rutter: Yo' C.H. Yoe!If you have used drugs in the past and have quit, you are doing great! You are not only going to give your baby a great chance at being born healthy, you are also giving yourself a chance to have a long, happy, and healthy life. For more information on living a drug-free life, visit http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/ and http://teens.drugabuse.gov/. Keep the questions coming!
11797229 - Rockville High School,
Maryland: Hi! Do all drugs affect harmfully to the body because i
hard that some doctors prescribe cocaine or such to patients for their
diesease?? Joe
Frascella: Hey Rockville High, great question! Many drugs
that are abused are actually used very effectively and safely as medications -
for example, morphine, prescription opioids/pain killers, ketamine,
benzodiazepines, etc. When used properly, these drugs/medications pose
very little danger and are quite useful for many medical reasons. That
said, medications, such as prescription medications, can be used for
nonmedical purposes, and when used this way, they can be abused and can lead to
addiction. Cocaine is still used as a local anesthetic.Check out this site for further discussion of the science of addiction, and thanks for your question: http://www.nida.nih.gov/DrugPages/addiction.html
vvhs - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: is it true that you can have flask backs of lsd years
after you take it? David
Shurtleff: Yes- drugs like LSD are hallucinogens
that cause profound distortions in perception of reality. Under the influence of
hallucinogens, people see images, hear sounds, and feel sensations that seem
real but do not exist. Some hallucinogens also produce rapid, intense emotional
swings and result in fear and anxiety, which can be terrifying to people.
Hallucinogens cause their effects by disrupting the interaction of nerve cells
and the neurotransmitter serotonin. The effect can last as little as several
hours and and as long as days, months, or years after taking the
drug. For more information about drugs and LSD, check out http://teens.drugabuse.gov/!
amorton - Upper Dublin High School,
Pennsylvania: if you have a close friend that smokes and they
pressure you to smoke what should you do? Cheryl Boyce: Good question. It is
hard when you have a close friend who is doing something self-destructive
and then wants you to do it as well. It is great that you are thinking
about the most healthy choice for you. Your friend may not know how
damaging it is to smoke tobacco or marijuana. Bad effects can happen both in the short
and long term. You can learn more about the effects of smoking
marijuana here: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana and
smoking tobacco here at: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drnida/drnida_nic1.php.
It is important to make your own healthy choices about smoking, despite what
your close friend says. Be your own person. agalenkamp - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: How can you get someone help for an addiction if
they are not willing to undergo treatment? Redonna Chandler: Agalenkamp, Great
question. The reality is that you can't make anyone go to treatment.
You can express your concern about their drug use and let them know the impact
it has on you and how you see it negatively impacting them. You can also
provide them with information about where to find help if they change their mind
and decide to seek treatment. For more information on where to find
treatment see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov . Finally, make
sure you take care of yourself. Supporting someone who needs but is
unwilling to enter drug treatment is difficult. Talk to a trusted adult -
parent, teacher, coach, guidance counselor, parent of a friend - about the
situation and get the emotional support you need while going through this
process. Hope this helps. SUPER G - Brockbank Jr. High,
Utah: WHAT EFFECTS DOES SPEED HAVE ON THE BODY Jacqueline Lloyd:
Hi there! Speed is a street term for methamphetamine, which is a type of stimulant.
Stimulants elevate mood, increase feelings of well-being, and increase
energy and alertness. Examples of stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamines, methylphenidate, nicotine, and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), better known as
"Ecstasy."
As with many other drugs of abuse, repeated
stimulant abuse can cause addiction. That means that someone repeatedly seeks
out and uses the drug despite its harmful effects. Repeated drug use changes the
brain in ways that contribute to the drug craving and continued drug seeking and
use that characterizes addiction. Other effects of long-term stimulant abuse can
include paranoia, aggressiveness, extreme anorexia, thinking problems, visual
and auditory hallucinations, delusions, and severe dental problems.
Like
most drugs, stimulants can be lethal (lead to death) when taken in large doses
or mixed with other substances. Stimulant overdoses can lead to heart problems,
strokes, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), and convulsions, which if not
treated immediately can result in death.
For more
information on speed and other stimulants go to: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_stim1.php
cc - Benjamin Franklin Academics
Plus, Pennsylvania: if ur mother is pregnant and she smokin crack,
can her baby get high Joni
Rutter: Benjamin Franklin's in the house!That's a good question. We do know that a baby born to a mother who takes cocaine during pregnancy can be smaller at birth, is more likely to be premature (born early) and may go through withdrawal from cocaine following birth. These factors that can put them at risk of cognitive (example, learning and memory) disadvantages later in life. With proper treatment, however they can recover significantly. What we don't know, however, is children born to mothers that used cocaine during pregnancy are at greater risk of becoming addicted to cocaine as they grow older. If you're interestied in getting more information on cocaine and also the consequences of prenatal drug use, please see: http://www.drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/cocaine/treatment.html and http://www.drugabuse.gov/tib/prenatal.html
daughtry - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: Is cigrettes a drug? David Shurtleff:
Yes- the drug of abuse in
cigarettes is nicotine. As you smoke cigarettes, the brain adapts and
'expects' nicotine, which can lead to regular smoking and addiction to tobacco. How rapidly you become addicted also depends on your
genes- if for example you have genes that lead to rapid metabolism of nicotine,
you may be more susceptible to the addictive affects of drugs.For more information about smoking and nicotine, check out http://smoking.drugabuse.gov/.
cavs23 - South Middle School, West
Virginia: is there a drug that can kill your brain cells
Joe
Frascella: Hey, thanks much for the question. We know
that drugs do affect specific brain cells and that also depends on the
particular drugs. We don't really know how many cells are actually
destroyed by drugs, and we are researching that question. There
are lots of variables at work with drugs, and there are considerable individual
differences with respect to drug effects on brain cells. Each
person brain is different, so it's a little like playing 'Russian Roulette' if
someone chooses to use drugs. The longer someone takes drugs, the more likely
that he/she will become addicted and suffer long-term, harmful brain changes.
For general information about drugs, check out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/
soda - Benjamin Franklin Academics
Plus, Pennsylvania: why is it bad for teens to do drugs
Cheryl
Boyce: Thanks for your question. Teens need to stay healthy
and do their best. Drugs prevent that from happening. The effects of
drugs on your brain can happen immediately and last a long
while. Doing drugs can affect your school work and your
relationships with your friends and family. You can find out more about
the effects of drugs on teens here: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php.
Have a great afternoon and keep your brain healthy! Ms.Bubbles - South Middle School,
West Virginia: My friends dad gets drunk a lot and she's afraid to
tell anyone other than me. Should i get help for her Redonna Chandler: Fill in. Thanks for your
question. Dealing with parental drug abuse is tough and I know this from first
hand experience. When I was living with a father who had a drinking
problem I needed friends I could talk to that would maintain my
confidence. You can provide support to your friend by listening and
helping make sure she isn't impacted negatively by her parent's drug use.
For example, when my father would drink I would make sure I didn't
ride with him in the car and arranged for friends or their parents to take me
places. That is a very tangible way you can help your friend.
Also, I talked with my school guidance counselor and participated in a
local Al-Anon program for teens (Alateen) whose parents used drugs.
There I found additional support on how to deal with my father's drug
use from people having the same experience. You might provide your
friend with access to more information including: information on how to
help someone stop using drugs see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7,
and for more information about Alateen see:http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen In 2007, nearly 288,000 people
entering drug treatment programs reported marijuana as their primary drug of abuse. Ms.P - Junction City High School,
Oregon: Considering the lethargy that accompanies the use of
marijuana is there concern that the productivity of this generation will decline
in comparison to generations prior? Ruben
Baler: The prevalence of marijuana use among young people has been fairly high for
many decades. I don't expect that the slight differences in rate of use over
past decades will translate into significant fluctuations in productivity
when comparing different generations tjohnson1234 - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: why is weed considered a drug Stephanie Older: Marijuana comes from a plant that contains THC, which is
'psychoactive' (it affects mood and behavior) and can be addictive. For more
information on mariijuana see http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana and http://www.nida.nih.gov/MarijBroch/teens/. Spring_Woods=D - Spring Woods High
School, Texas: I heard marijuana isnt really addicting, Is that
true? David
Shurtleff: Marijuana can be addictive. When you smoke a joint, marijuana smoke goes into the
lungs, and then the blood, and then the brain. Once marijuana is in the brain,
its active ingredient--THC molecules--attach to brain cells. They attach by
docking on proteins called 'receptors' whose normal function is to dock
natural chemicals called cannabinoids. In effect, the THC molecules mimic the
cannabinoid molecules. They have the same effects as the internal (endogenous)
cannabinoid molecules, but with one big difference--there are many more THC
molecules than internal cannabinoid molecules, so their effects are much more
extreme. THC then causes the neurotransmitter dopamine to be relased in
reward centers of the brain--the large amounts of dopamine that are released
contribute to the 'high.' Repeated use and chronic dopamine release can result
in addiction. If someone is addicted to marijuana, they can
experience withdrawal symptoms like sleep disturbance, irritability,
and depression when they stop using. Another sign that the user is addicted is
if he/she is driven to continue using it even if it is causing all kinds of
problems in their lives, such as poor grades and problems with friends and
family.For more information about marijuana, check out http://www.marijuana-info.org/.
dkenney - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: How could you best help a friend who is living in a home
with someone having an addiction problem? Redonna Chandler: Thanks for your question.
Dealing with parental drug abuse is tough and I know this from first hand
experience. When I was living with a father who had a drinking
problem I needed friends I could talk to that would maintain my
confidence. You can provide support to your friend by listening and
helping make sure she isn't impacted negatively by her parent's drug use.
For example, when my father would drink I would make sure I didn't
ride with him in the car and arranged for friends or their parents to take me
places. That is a very tangible way you can help your friend.
Also, I talked with my school guidance counselor and participated in a
local Al-Anon program for teens (Alateen) whose parents used drugs.
There I found additional support on how to deal with my father's drug
use from people having the same experience. You might provide your
friend with access to more information including: information on how to
help someone stop using drugs see: www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or
call 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7,
and for more information about Alateen see:http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen Taylor - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: Is it true that herbal cigarettes are just as addictive
and bad for your health? Mark
Greene: There are several types of herbal cigarettes, some of
which contain tobacco even though they are called 'herbal'. Even herbal
cigarettes that do not have tobacco or nicotine, while possibly not addictive, can be
harmful. They often contain ingredients that, when
burned, produce combustion products that can be harmful, such as tar and
carbon monoxide. The dog - Lima Central Catholic
High School, Ohio: does weed affect athletes? Cheryl Boyce: Weed can affect anyone who
takes it. It is a drug and even those who may be healthy because they are
athletes can suffer from its effects--like losing their
coordination (http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana ).
Some people feel nothing at all when they smoke marijuana. Others may feel relaxed or high. Sometimes marijuana
makes users feel thirsty and suddenly hungry. Some users can get bad
effects from marijuana. They may have sudden feelings of anxiety and paranoid
thoughts. It does not matter whether you are an athlete or not, weed
can affect your brain and behavior. So keep your brain healthy! amy - Theodore Roosevelt
High School, Ohio: If you are dating a person that is an
alcoholic, and then you make them quit drinking because they are verbally
abusing you, will it make them stop abusing you? Harold Perl: Hi. Thanks for
asking a very brave question that I know is very important to
you. First of all, no one deserves any kind of abuse, whether it is
physical or verbal. I'm not sure from your question whether this is
happening to you or to a friend, but this is a very serious issue. This
person may verbally abuse you more when they've been drinking, but stopping
drinking will not necessarily stop them from abusing you. Please try to
get some help to deal with the verbal abuse because this abuse can be very
harmful to you. Try to talk about your worries with your parents
or other trusted adults such as an aunt or uncle, a teacher, a school counselor,
or a minister or rabbi. Also, you might try calling the National Domestic
Violence Hotline. Help is available to callers 24 hours a day, 365
days a year. Hotline advocates are available for victims and anyone calling on
their behalf to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, information and
referrals to agencies in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Assistance is available in English and Spanish with access to more than 170
languages through interpreter services. If you are frightened about something in
your relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at
1800799SAFE (7233) or TTY 18007873224. Also, a group
called Alateen helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects
of living with a relative or friend who abuses alcohol. Their website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
Here is a website for teens that will give you information about alcohol
abuse: www.thecoolspot.gov. Whatever you do, try to find
someone to help you deal with such a serious problem. Take good care
of yourself and good luck. Bhelferty - Upper Dublin High
School, Pennsylvania: Would drinking or smoking(weed)
occasionaly.. drasticly affect your grades/how smart you are? Stephanie Older: Marijuana, like most other drugs, affects the parts of the
brain that allow us to make plans, solve problems, and make decisions-- so yes,
even occasional use can cause someone not to study and/or have their grades
drop. The same holds true for alcohol. Steelers Rock!! - Brockbank Jr.
High, Utah: What happens if a parent gives their baby marijuana?
Please answer :) Cheryl
Boyce: Marijuana can have bad effects on the mother and baby during
pregnancy. THC (which is in weed), passes from the lungs into the
bloodstream. The blood carries that chemical to the brain and other
organs throughout the body. Smoking weed can affect your memory, thinking
and problem solving skills, as well as coordination. These bad
affects can last for days. Keep your brain healthy! Weed is not healthy
for your brain cells. Click here to find out more: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana. Mothers
need to stay healthy for themselves and their babies. We've got a
bunch of studies that look at the long-term effects of exposure to drugs during
pregnancy. The good news is that a lot of these kids are ok, but sometimes there
are effects on behavior, attention, and thinking that can affect kids over
the long term. It is important for mothers to keep their brains and
the brains of their children healthy! BMO - Presque Isle High School,
Maine: why does alchol make your body slow done Mark Greene: The 'slowing down' effect you
refer to can happen quickly due to alcohol's effects on the brain. A brain affected by
alcohol cannot respond to things quickly, which means the body, which is
under the control of the brain, will respond more slowly. Heavy drinking
over many years can lead to permanent 'slowing down' through cumulative toxic
actions on the brain and other body organs. kobe27 - Spring Woods High School,
Texas: could you get lung cancer from second-hand smoke
Gaya
Dowling: Yes. Secondhand smoke is estimated to cause approximately
3,000 lung cancer deaths per year among nonsmokers. Mr.Dazzle.com - Skaneateles High
School, New York: How does weed help in medicane? Cheryl Boyce: Marijuana for medical use has been in the news a lot lately,
although it is not currently approved by the Food and Drug
Administration for treating any medical illness. There are recognized
medical benefits to some of the active ingredients in marijuana, and scientists
are making use of their knowledge about those ingredients--and the body
systems they affect--to develop new medications for a variety of symptoms
and diseases. These include pain, obesity, and addiction. A pill form
of THC (an active ingredient in marijuana) is already available for certain
conditions, such as nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy and weight loss
in patients with AIDS. Inhalants, like hair spray, gasoline and spray paint, can often
be identified by their:- strong smell
- myelin
- extra oxygen
- their usefulness
R.Christian - Lakeview Middle
School, Michigan: i heard on manswers that u can get high on
nutmeg is this true Ruben
Baler: Actually, probably yes. Nutmeg is a spice that contains
volatile oils comprised of alkyl benzene derivatives (myristicin, elemicin,
safrole, etc.), terpenes and myristic acid. Nutmeg has a long history of abuse, several poisoning
cases, at least one which proved fatal. YANKEES24 - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: How can you tell if someone is high? Cheryl Boyce: For some people, smoking marijuana makes them feel good. Within minutes of inhaling, a
user begins to feel "high," or filled with pleasant sensations. The main
chemical in marijuana--called THC--triggers brain cells to release the chemical
dopamine. Dopamine creates good feelings, but only for a short time. After the
initial high from the dopamine, marijuana can affect your memory,
judgment, perception, and coordination. Under the influence of marijuana,
you could fail to remember things you just learned, watch your grade point
average drop, or crash a car. When your judgement is impaired from being high,
you might make bad choices. Check this out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/marijuana kandy - Einstein High School,
Maryland: after being in rehab and quiting your addiction and be
clean for a good couple of months can their be a chance that you go back because
your head and body wants it? Redonna
Chandler: Kandy, Some people do relapse and use drugs even after
treatment. Dealing with urges and cravings to use drugs is a standard
component of drug treatment. When relapse occurs it doesn't mean treatment
failed rather that there is a need for on-going intervention. This is just
like my grandmother who is diabetic. Through diet, exercise, and
medication her blood sugar was stable. However, when her blood sugar goes
up it doesn't mean treatment failed or that future treatment won't work.
It is an indicator she needs to be re-evaluated by her doctor and her treatment
tailored. This is the exact same with addiciton. Relapse is a sign
that there is still a need for additional treatment and the person should seek
additional professional help. For more information about relapse and drug
addiction see: http://www.drugabuse.gov/pubs/teaching/Teaching6/Teaching8.html or
to http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_brain2.php#dealHope this helps.
brianna wilson - Martinsville High
School, Virginia: how do drugs affect teenagers? Joni Rutter: This is a great question
Martinsville!Teenagers are highly susceptible to the affects of drugs because as humans, our brains are still developing up to the age of 25 or so! When you are a teenager, your brain is changing a lot, and if you take drugs, they can interfere with how your brain functions and develops. It can slow your learning and ability to think and make decisions--that's never good! For the best answer and most up to date information, you should check out: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/. It's a great website and highly interactive. It will give you information about teens and drug abuse. There's also a pretty cool video about one of the most highly abused drugs--prescription drugs, like painkillers. See http://teens.drugabuse.gov/new_media/video.php
pettwaytyrell - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: how do drugs affect your brain Cheryl Boyce: Drugs can cause serious
damage to your brain (see http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_brain1.php ).
Why? Because they are chemicals that can affect your brain and how it
sends signals. Each drug affects your brain differently, and the effects
can last long after the drug has been taken. Drugs of abuse affect the
'reward' circuit in the brain, which gives you pleasure. But the
pleasurable feeling comes at a high price. Keep your brain
healthy! W@ckyW!z@rd97 - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: is it true that when you smoke that
your hair can fall out? Mark
Greene: That's a head-scratcher. I don't know of any reports that
baldness is a side effect of smoking. CasaGrande - Casa Grande Union High
School, Arizona: What exactly is the legal drug called salvia? how
does it effect you Stephanie
Older: Salvia (Salvia divinorum) is an herb common to
southern Mexico and Central and South America. It can be ingested by
chewing fresh leaves or by drinking their extracted juices; or the dried leaves
can be smoked, consumed in water pipes, or vaporized and inhaled. People
who abuse Salvia generally experience hallucinations or delusional episodes that
mimic psychosis--this is concerning; particularly when it comes to driving under
the influence of salvia. grad20012 - Dixie High School,
Utah: how does cocaine affect pregnancy? will that baby be
addicted ? Cheryl
Boyce: Cocaine can have bad effects on the mother and baby during
pregnancy. Researchers have found that cocaine may affect the baby while
it is in the womb.http://archives.drugabuse.gov/NIDA_Notes/NNVol14N3/Prenatal.html. Prenatal cocaine exposure during preganancy can have both short and long-term effects on the baby's mental health and brain functioning. NIDA recommends that pregnant women not use alcohol or drugs, including tobacco, and ask their doctor for some help if they are having trouble stopping. Mothers need to stay healthy for themselves and their babies.
Babies of mothers who use drugs can be born early (prematurely) or at low birth weight. Exposure to some drugs, like opiates (heroin, oxycontin, vicodin, morphine) can lead to neonatal abstinence syndrome, which means babies can be born addicted, and then experience withdrawal from the drugs. We've got a bunch of studies that look at the long term effects of exposure to drugs during pregnancy. The good news is that a lot of these kids are ok, but sometimes there are effects on behavior, attention, and thinking that can affect kids over the long term. It is important for mothers to keep their brains and the brains of their children healthy!
LetMeBeMe - Lima Central Catholic
High School, Ohio:
My uncle might be smoking weed what are signs to show evidence of weed -He needs to stop-
Joe
Frascella: Here are some things to look for regarding evidence of
marijuana use:If someone is high on marijuana, he or she might:
- seem dizzy and have trouble walking;
- seem silly and giggly for no reason;
- have very red, bloodshot eyes; and
- have a hard time remembering things that just happened.
When the early effects fade, the user can become very sleepy.
You
might see overall changes in his behavior. You might also look
for withdrawal, depression, fatigue, carelessness with grooming, hostility, and
deteriorating relationships with family members and friends. In addition,
changes in eating or sleeping habits could be related to drug use. However,
these signs may also indicate problems other than use of drugs.
In
addition, you might find:
- signs of drugs and drug paraphernalia, including pipes and rolling
papers;
- odor on clothes and in the bedroom;
- use of incense and other deodorizers;
- use of eye drops; and
- clothing, posters, jewelry, etc., promoting drug use.
Hope this helps. For more information on marijuana, check out: http://www.marijuana-info.org/
lilwayne - Upper Dublin High
School, Pennsylvania: Is it ok to drink for religious purposes?
Mark
Greene: Drinking alcohol has been part of religious practices, in many different
religions, for hundreds thousands of years. For peole who can drink
legally, are not pregnant, do not have a medical condition such as
diabetes that alcohol will exacerbate, and can drink in moderation, alcohol
usually is all right whether or not religion is involved. myhuele - Einstein High School,
Maryland: my dad smokes for so long now, nothings wrong with him,
so can the risks of smoking not be for everyone. Joni Rutter: Great questions Einstein --are
you a budding scientist? You should be! We know that the consequences of smoking are affected by genetics and environments--everybody is different in how they respond to years of smoking. Your dad could be very lucky and have other genetic factors that are protecting him from some of the bad consequences of smoking. We don't really know a whole lot about that though, so I wouldn't count on it. The effects of smoking for a long time may not be felt or seen for a many years. Your dad isn't very old, and he will likely experience some bad effects from all of his years of smoking at some point. My dad smoked for a long time until they found a growth in his lung. Luckily he had it removed and he's ok--that was enought to make him think twice about continuinig to smoke. He got help, and now he doesn't smoke at all! He's still going strong, but I'd hate to think of what could have happened to him had he not quit back then.
kagf~ - Dixie High School,
Utah: i know a little boy who lives with his grandparents and they
smoke. Every time he comes to my house he smells bad! what are the chances of
the government of taking that kid away from his grandparents? Redonna Chandler: Thanks for your
question. I doubt that this child will be removed from the home of his
grandparents because they smoke. However, second hand smoke does have
negative health consequences. You might express your concern about the
grandparents' smoking and make them aware that it negatively impacts their
grandchild. For more information on the impact of smoking
see: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_nicotine1.php For
information about how to quit smoking call 1-800-QUIT-NOW
(1-800-784-8669.Hope this helps.
12holtrubw - Dixie High School,
Utah: whats the chances of dieing from extacy Jacqueline Lloyd: Hi there! "Ecstasy"
is a slang term for MDMA, short for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a really long name I
know. It has effects similar to those of other stimulants, and it
often makes the user feel like everyone is his or her friend, even when that's
not the case. Because MDMA is man-made, makers of MDMA can add anything
they want to the drug, so its purity is always in question. In research
shows that abuse of any drug, including MDMA, can cause serious health problems
and, in some instances, even death. Many drug abusers take combinations of
drugs, including alcohol, which may further increase their risk.
MDMA users can also become dehydrated through vigorous activity in a hot
environment. It may not seem like a big deal, but when MDMA interferes with the
body's ability to regulate its temperature, it can cause dangerous overheating,
called hyperthermia. This, in turn, can lead to serious heart and kidney
problems - or, rarely, death. MDMA can be extremely dangerous in high doses or
when multiple small doses are taken within a short time period to maintain the
high. High levels of the drug in the blood stream can increase the risk of
hyperthermia, seizures, and the ability of the heart to maintain its normal
rhythms.
For more information on MDMA go to: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_xtc1.php
jim - Upper Dublin High School,
Pennsylvania: what happens if an employer finds out you are doing
drugs? Redonna
Chandler: That may depend on where you work. It's possible
that you could loose your job for using drugs or being under the influence
of drugs at work. In some cases, employers refer employees with drug
problems to treatment. It's probably best for people to seek help
on their own and get into treatment before an employer finds
out. For more information about treatment resources call 1-800-662-HELP or
go to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov anytime, 24-hours a day, 7
days a week. m.nino - Lakeview Middle School,
Michigan: can you get high off of pixie sticks if you snort it?
Ruben
Baler: no ScLions032 - State College Area
High School, Pennsylvania: What are the affects of being around
people doing inhalents? Could you breathe in enough to get high too from just
being around them? Jacqueline
Lloyd: Some household and other everyday products can be used
as inhalants and use of inhalants can be very dangerous.
This is a very good question because it is important for young people to know
the harmful effects of inhalants and not take lightly even one-time
experimentation. Just a single session of repeated inhalations has caused
permanent organ damage or death. Organs at risk from inhalant abuse include the
lungs, brain, liver, heart, and kidneys. Some abusers experience restlessness,
nausea, sweating, anxiety, and other symptoms of withdrawal when they stop
taking the drug. Like any other drug when abused, inhalants can also lead to
accidents and injuries. In response to your question, it is important to consider that products that are abused as inhalants can be very strong and toxic. Therefore, there is the possibility of breathing in these products and getting high if a person is in a confined area where inhalants are being abused. Because of the many dangers of using drugs and the impact that drugs can have on the judgment of users, I think it is very important to know that being in an environment where drugs are being used could potentially be dangerous and harmful.
For more information on inhalant use, please go to http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.php.
kagf~ - Dixie High School,
Utah: is alcohol the same as the alcohol you use to put on a place
where you got hurt? Mark
Greene: No it is not. Although they are both called alcohol in common speech, they are different
chemicals. The alcohol used in beverages ethanol. The alcohol that's
put on wounds is methanol: it is good for killing germs, but extremely harmful
if swallowed. idalisgonzalez - Ludlow Elementary
School, Pennsylvania: Can using drug while pregant effect your
baby??? Joni
Rutter: Hi Ludlow,Absolutely--and not in a good way! In general, the earlier in pregnancy you take a drug, and the longer you keep taking drugs the more your baby will be affected. Alcohol is particularly harmful and opioid drugs (heroin, oxycotin and other prescription pain killers) might lead your baby to have withdrawal symptoms after birth. To learn more, check out 'The Science of Addiction' at http://www.nida.nih.gov/scienceofaddiction. For more information on alcohol abuse, go to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism at http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
pothead365 - Martinsville High
School, Virginia: what happens when women takes steroids
Ruben
Baler: In addition to the well known and major effects of steroid
abuse (like liver damage; jaundice; fluid retention; high blood pressure; and
increases in 'bad' cholesterol) females risk growth of facial hair, menstrual
changes, male-pattern baldness, and deepened voice. Teens in general risk
permanently stunted height, accelerated puberty changes, and severe acne. All
users, but particularly those who inject the drug, risk infectious diseases such
as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. casa grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Are household products really in Meth?
Gaya
Dowling: Yes. It's really disgusting. In addition to chemicals
from over-the-counter cold medicines, anhydrous ammonia (an agricultural
fertilizer and industrial refrigerant), red phosphorus (used in matches),
rubbing alcohol, paint thinner, gasoline, brake
cleaner, acetone, among a lot of other harmful chemicals are used to make
meth in small clandestine labs. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: My dad drinks every day, could he die?
Harold
Perl: Hello. Thanks for asking a question that I know
is very important to you. You sound pretty worried and I'm sure that you
want to help your dad in any way that you can. You could try talking
to him about your concerns about his drinking and ask him to try to get some
professional help or to attend a self-help group such as Alcoholics
Anonymous. It is important that you be able to talk about your own worries
with other members of your family or trusted adults such as a teacher, a school
counselor, or a minister or rabbi. A group called Alateen helps families
and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with a relative or
friend who abuses alcohol. Their website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen.
Here is a website for teens that will give you information about alcohol
abuse: http://www.thecoolspot.gov/. Whatever you
do, try to learn as much as you can about drug and alcohol addiction
and find someone to help you deal with such a serious problem. Take
good care, and good luck to you, your dad, and your family. Pothead24/7 - Martinsville High
School, Virginia: Why do steriods shrink the testicles?
Ruben
Baler: It's a 'hormone' thing. Anabolic steroids are chemically similar to testosterone and also
provide feedback through organs in the brain to tell the testicles to stop
making their own testosterone. Thus, with the use of anabolic steroids, the
testicles shut down, atrophy (shrink), and can be permanently altered to cause
infertility. student - Benjamin Franklin
Academics Plus, Pennsylvania: do drugs have the worst effect on
teens or adults Cheryl
Boyce: Drug use can have bad effects on anyone no matter how old
they are. But, we do know that the brain is still developing when you are
a teenager. Drug use while you are developing can affect how you learn and
feel and whether you reach your potential in life. We want people of all
ages to keep their brain healthy. Check this out--and leave us a comment: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/tag/brain-development/ that1kid - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: what makes crystal meth so addicting?
David
Shurtleff: How it acts on your brain makes meth addictive--as meth enters the brain, it causes a user to feel euphoric, or
'high,' by acting on the brain's reward system. It does this by causing dopamine
to pour out of brain cells in reward areas of the brain--these are areas of the
brain that respond to things that are normally rewarding such as food and drink.
Repeated use of drugs and chronic dopamine releases can lead to long-term
changes in these brain regions that lead to the desire or craving for
more meth--resulting in addiction.To find a wealth of research and facts on the science of addiction and treatment, please go to:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
301-443-1124
http://www.drugabuse.gov/
By clicking on the link 'Students and Young Adults' from NIDA's home page you will be able to access resources tailored for students and young adults , whether you are in middle school and doing research on the effects of marijuana use, or high school student looking to find out about drug use and HIV.
If you need help, you will also find a link there to the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at http://www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ or 1-800-662-HELP, where you can find private and confidential help 24/7.
You will also find facts, trends, statistics, graphics and reports on specific drugs on NIDA's Web sites: http://www.smoking.drugabuse.gov/
http://www.marijuana-info.org/
http://www.clubdrugs.gov/
http://www.steroidabuse.gov/
inhalants.drugabuse.gov' target='_blank'>www.inhalants.drugabuse.gov
babii_luv777 - Valley Vista High
School, Arizona: how do you know when your addicted to something ?
and how long you been addicted to it Joe
Frascella: Great question!!! The following criteria can help
you know whether you are addicted to drugs:* Taking the drug more often or in larger amounts than intended.
* Unsuccessful attempts to quit; persistent desire, craving.
* Excessive time spent in drug seeking.
* Feeling intoxicated at inappropriate times, or feeling withdrawal symptoms from a drug at such times.
* Giving up other things for it.
* Continued use, despite knowledge of harm to oneself and others.
* Marked tolerance in which the amount needed to satisfy increases at first before leveling off.
* Characteristic withdrawal symptoms for particular drugs.
* Taking the drug to relieve or avoid withdrawal.
If yes can be
answered several of these, then chances are someone is addicted. We
don't really know or understand who becomes addicted and why, and after how much
drug exposure. We do know that each person is different, so it's a little like
playing 'Russian Roulette' if someone chooses to use drugs. The longer someone
takes drugs, the more likely that he/she will become addicted and suffer
long-term, harmful brain changes. So to be honest, there is no real
straightforward answer regarding how long it takes to become addicted.
It's best to not use any illicit drugs.
For general information about
drugs, check out http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/.
MUHSTIGERS - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: What are your opinions on medical marijuana?
Cheryl
Boyce: Marijuana for medical use has been in the news a lot
lately. Even though it is not currently approved by the Food and
Drug Administration for treating any medical illness, there are
recognized medical benefits to some of the active ingredients in
marijuana. Scientists are making use of their knowledge about those
ingredients--and the systems they affect in the body--to develop new
medications for various symptoms and diseases. These include pain,
obesity, and addiction. A pill form of THC (an active ingredient in marijuana)
is already available for certain conditions, such as nausea associated with
cancer chemotherapy and weight loss in patients with AIDS. Keep your brain
healthy! gio51392 - Port Chester High
School, New York: can you die from a steriod overdose?
Ruben
Baler: Not likely, although given a high enough dose of
anything you can reach a lethal dose. Short of overdose, we do have case reports of individuals who may have comitted suicide as a result of chronic steroid abuse induced depression. We can also hypotesize that some fatal car accidents may have been caused by drivers suffering from 'roid rage'. However reasonable these connections may sound, we don't have hard scientific data that would confirm the mostly anecdotal evidence that suggests that steroid abuse can be the cause of some deaths.
celtic champ - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: what if a pregnant lady did drugs
would the baby come out deformed Joni
Rutter: Hi Randolph Clay,In general abused drugs are not teratogens (chemicals that cause birth defects). That doesn't mean the baby won't be harmed by drugs, though. There are many effects that drugs can have on fetuses. There are some drugs that when used during pregnancy can result in an infant being born addicted and going through a period of withdrawal. Opiates (including heroin, methadone, morphine, and prescription pain killers like vicodin or oxycotin) are an example. After the period of withdrawal, these babies are often okay, although it's not very comfortable for them when they are withdrawing.
Researchers are trying to figure out whether exposure to drugs including alcohol during pregnancy might make you more vulnerable to getting addicted when you are older. One researcher has found that if a mom smokes while she is pregnant, her child may be more likely to use tobacco when they become teenagers, and to become addicted if they use it. Of course, there are other effects of alcohol use during pregnancy that are very alarming. We know from research that alcohol (including both beer and liquor) can seriously harm the baby of a mother who drinks during pregnancy, causing a variety of health problems including a disorder called fetal alcohol syndrome. For more details about all the birth defects associated with fetal alcohol syndrome, check out this link: http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa50.htm. Because of this we recommend moms not use alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, or other drugs during pregnancy and ask for help from a health care professional if they are having trouble stopping.
kenzie&skyler<3 - Willow
Canyon High School, Arizona: hello im kenzie and i have had a bad
day! what is vicodin Cindy
Miner: sorry you're having a bad day.... things will get
betterseveral people have asked what is vicodin today. Vicodin is a medication that is prescribed to relieve severe pain. When taken asked prescribed it can be very effective in relieveing pain and helping people recover from medical procedures for example. But it can be very dangerous if used to party, or get high...it can be deadly.
lacey123 - Conestoga Valley High
School, Pennsylvania: Do you see alcohol ever becoming illegal in
the future? Stephanie
Older: Alcohol can have many adverse affects, however I do not
know the answer to this. I can tell you that since raising the
drinking age from 18 to 21, many thousands of lives have been saved through
decreases in automobile accidents. In fact, one report showed that by 2002 over
20,000 lives had been saved. (See http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/809860.PDF.) Also, we
know that the earlier you start using drugs, including alcohol and cigarettes,
the more likely you are to develop drug problems when you get older. So, there
are good reasons for NOT drinking. Whether it will ever become illegal is
anyone's guess. jwittenstein - Upper Dublin High
School, Pennsylvania: if my friend is an alchoholic, how do i stop
him before it's too late? Harold
Perl: Wow, thats a very important question and one we've been
getting a lot today. I know you must be very concerned about
your friend. You could try talking to him about your concerns
and worries about his drinking and ask him to try to get some professional help
or to attend a self-help group such as Alcoholics Anonymous. It is
important that you be able to talk about your own worries with members of your
family or trusted adults such as a teacher, a school counselor, or a minister or
rabbi. A group called Alateen helps families and friends of alcoholics
recover from the effects of living with a relative or friend who abuses alcohol. Their website is: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/for-alateen. You
can get more information on alcohol at the website of our sister agency, the
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at: www.niaaa.nih.gov. They also have a special
site for teens at www.thecoolspot.gov. Whatever you do, try to learn more
about drug and alcohol addiction and find someone to help you deal with
such a serious problem. Take good care. knighthawk(: - Dixie High School,
Utah: there are rumors that obama is legalizing marijuana in utah
but is also making the consqequences higher if you get caught high/drunk under
age. do you think that this is the right thing to do Redonna Chandler: Rumors about legalizing
marijuana in the Obama administration are untrue. I don't
know about policies in Utah related to under age drinking. I do know that
there are risks associated with marijuana and alcohol use. Use of both these drugs affects memory,
judgment, and perception. They can make you mess up in school, in sports or
clubs, or with your friends. If you're high on marijuana or alcohol, you are
more likely to make mistakes that could embarrass or even hurt you. So
regardless of politics, the use of alcohol or marijuana can have serious
consequences for everyone. [B]ri - Valley Vista High School,
Arizona: drugs make me feel good like cocaine but when i come down
from it im pissed. im angry and irratable. and grumpy! why is that? Joe Frascella: Great question! Drugs
can have different effects when you are taking them compared to when you are
coming off of them. That is there is the pleasurable or reinforcing phase
that can be followed by a period of negative consequences, as you have
described. These effects are due in part by how cocaine effects the brain. Initially there is a surge of
brain chemicals, such as, dopamine causing the rush/high, and
thereafter, the brain is depleted of these chemicals that leads to the negative
consequences.Hope this helps.
For more information on cocaine, check out: http://drugabuse.gov/drugpages/cocaine.html
adamsalexis - Otto Middle School,
Michigan: IS caffeine a drug. Cheryl Boyce: Caffeine is a stimulant and
can be addictive. Many people use caffeine everyday to stay alert and help
their mood. Eating or drinking a large amount of caffeine can make you
feel jittery, nervous, or energetic. That is because caffeine - like any
stimulant - changes the way your brain works. But caffeine is just a mild
example of a stimulant. Many other stimulant drugs are much stronger, and
some are illegal and very dangerous like cocaine, crack, and meth. Bottom line, yes,
caffeine is a stimulant drug, so don't overdo it. Keep your brain healthy!
And look around our teen website to learn more: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/ Princess17 - Middlebury Union High
School, Vermont: Is caffine a drug? Ruben Baler: Not only is caffeine a drug,
but it is also the most prevalent drug used in the world. Drug and alcohol abuse can harm your judgment. Teens who are intoxicated
can make bad decisions that lead to unsafe sex - and that puts them at risk for
getting HIV. To Learn the Link between drug abuse and HIV check out http://hiv.drugabuse.gov/ Nick_McMullen - Kingswood Middle
School, New Hampshire: How do you guys no so much about doing
drugs? Cheryl
Boyce: Learning about drugs and their effects is important
area of research, since it helps us learn how to prevent people from using drugs
in the first place, or again. We study biology and behavior and
neuroscience to learn about how drugs affect your brain and your
body. Whenever you want to learn more about drug use and the ways to
prevent it, you should try NIDA for Teens at: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/index.php
and tell your friends, too. Look around. We already know how doing drugs
can affect your brain and life--and we want help teens like
you avoid drug use. Casa Grande - Casa Grande Union
High School, Arizona: Why is Marijuana illegal when there has been
no case of anyone ever overdosing on it? When there are things such as Beer,
liquor and alchohol that aren't illegal. Ruben Baler: Because (among other effects)
marijuana impairs memory, learning, attention, and is
addictive. Just because of these effects alone, we should be seriously concerned
that if marijuana (which is already very prevalent among
youth) is made broadly available and accessible to young people the
negative impact in academic achievement, long term mental health, and job
and life satisfaction would be unacceptably high. shark - Dixie High School,
Utah: How do drugs affect your thinking process? Joe Frascella: Thanks for the
question. On the short-term, drugs can cloud cognitive or thinking
processes; however, chronic use of some drugs are associated with problems in
memory, learning, and executive funcitioning.For more information on addiction, check out the site: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/
whatitcalled - Randolph Clay
Middle/High School, Georgia: does the use of drugs cause A.I.D.S.
or H.I.V.? Gaya
Dowling: Using drugs can put you at risk for getting HIV, the
virus that causes AIDS. One reason is that drug and alcohol abuse can harm your judgment. People who are
intoxicated can make bad decisions that lead to unsafe sex - and that puts them at
risk for getting HIV. Also, people who inject drugs can transmit the virus
through shared needles or other injection equipment. To Learn the Link between
drug abuse and HIV check out http://hiv.drugabuse.gov/ crazy218 - Port Chester High
School, New York: what might happen to you when you mix more than
1 drug??? Nancy
Pilotte: The answer to that question depends on what drugs you
might be mixing. Each drug by itself has its own effects. Mixing them might
decrease certain effects or make them more powerful. But regardless of
what they are, mixing them may result in unexpected interactions that are
dangerous. Additionally, drugs can contribute to lots of health problems,
including lung and cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, and mental
disorders, in addition to drug addiction.For more information, check out http://www.abovetheinfluence.com/!
jwittenstein - Upper Dublin High
School, Pennsylvania: what plant does alchohol come from?
Mark
Greene: Alcohol can come from many kinds of plants that contain starch
or sugar. For example, you probably know that wine comes from grapes--the
alcohol in wine started out as sugar in the grapes. Grains, such as barley
and even rice can also be used to produce alcohol. Jojo - Dixie High School,
Utah: I have an Uncle who almost commit suicide when he was 21,
because of looking at pornography, what is the effect of looking at pornography?
Is it really considered a drug and how does it effect the brain? Joe Frascella: Great question!
Pornography is not considered a drug, but just like drugs of abuse, it can
causes changes in the brain similar to the changes resulting from drug
use. Much like cocaine, pornography results in the release of the brain
chemical dopamine. This repeated release is associated with pleasure,
which in turn, can result in repeated consumption. People have become
'addicted' to pornography, just as they have drugs of abuse.Questions? drugfacts@nida.nih.gov or call 301-443-1124
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