Opioid drugs

It refers to the intentional use of a drug for non-medical purposes, in amounts or frequencies that can impair a person's ability to function effectively. This misuse can lead to social, physical, or emotional harm, and may result in both psychological and physical dependence on the substance.

1.0Drugs Define

• When certain compounds are taken for a purpose other than medicinal use in amounts/frequency that impairs one's physical, physiological or psychological functions. 
• The majority of these are obtained from flowering plants, but some drugs are obtained from fungi.  For e.g. LSD (Lysergic acid Diethylamide) (Fruiting body of fungus claviceps purpurea)

2.0Opioids 

Examples:

• Natural: Morphine 
• Synthetic: Heroine (Diacetyl morphine) [White, odorless, bitter crystalline compound] 

Source - Smack 

• Morphine: Extracted from the latex of the poppy plant Papaver somniferum 
• Heroine: Obtained by acetylation of morphine 

Mode of intake

• Generally by– Snorting, Injection 

Mechanism of action 

• Binding with specific opioid receptors present in the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract 
• Effects on the body :  
• Morphine: A highly effective sedative and pain reliever, commonly used to manage pain in patients following surgery.
• Heroine: A depressant that slows down body functions.

3.0Cannabinoids 

Examples:  

• Bhang, Marijuana, Hashish, Charas and Ganja 

Source:

• Natural: Inflorescences of the cannabis plant Cannabis sativa 
• Marijuana, Hashish, Charas and Ganja: Flower tops, leaves and the resin of the cannabis plant are used in various combinations for production

Mode of intake:

• Generally, by inhalation and oral ingestion, the mechanism of action Interacts with cannabinoid receptors present principally in the brain. It Affects the body. 
• Effects on the cardiovascular system of the body 
• Also, being abused by some sports persons these days

4.0Coca alkaloids 

Examples:

Cocaine, commonly called coke or crack 

Source:

The coca plant (Erythroxylum coca) is indigenous to South America.

Mode of intake:

Usually by snorting 

Mechanism of action:

Interference with the transport of the neurotransmitter dopamine

5.0Effects on body 

• Potent stimulating action on the central nervous system, producing a sense of euphoria and increased energy. 
• High doses can lead to hallucinations. 
• For centuries, various plants, fruits, and seeds with hallucinogenic properties have been utilized in traditional medicine, religious ceremonies, and rituals across the world. 
• Notable examples of such plants include Atropa belladonna and Datura. Additionally, medications like barbiturates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed to treat mental health conditions such as depression and insomnia, are often subject to misuse and abuse.

6.0General Behaviour Characteristics of Drug Abuse 

• Drug abuse can cause various behavioural problems in users. 
• Abrupt changes in school or work attendance, quality of work, grades, discipline, work output
• Unusual flare-ups or outbreaks of temper 
• withdrawal from responsibility 
• General changes in overall attitude 
• Deterioration of physical appearance and grooming 
• Furtive behaviour regarding actions and possessions 

7.0Signs to Identify Drug Abusers

• Poor attendance at school or college 
• Decline in academic performance 
• Slurring of speech 
• Sweating at night 
• Loss of appetite 
• Reddening of eyes 
• Temper tantrums 
• Puffiness under eyes 
• Blood stains on clothes 
• Odour on breath and clothing 
• Presence of needles, syringes, strange packets, etc., at home. 
• Preference for solitude, especially spending long hours in the toilet.