drugs of abuse 1 Flashcards
what constitutes a drug of abuse?
A drug that:
- alters the consciousness + cognitive ability of the user
- altering mental state like euphoria/relaxation etc.
- has long term psychological effects upon the user
- is addictive
how are drugs classified?
drugs classified according to the misuse of drugs act 1971
- based on harm to user/society and potential for misuse
class A - most harmful, high potential for misuse and severe physical or psychological dependence. Carry the largest sentences/penalties.
e.g. heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, LSD
class B - less harmful than A, still high potential for misuse and dependence, less severe punishments
e.g. cannabis, ketamine, codeine, amphetamine
class C - least harmful, if used inappropriately or excessively c- can cause harm, least severe punishments
e.g. benzodiazepines, anabolic steroid
Misuse of drugs act - imp in legislating punishments for possession, supply, production and trafficking of drugs
compare legal drugs vs legal highs?
legal drug - something not covered by the misuse of drugs act, permitted to use recreationally or medically
- generally safe when used as prescribed
- under strict regulations
- known chemical structure and effects on body
- widespread information to public about the effects
legal high/designer drugs
- also known as NPS - new psychoactive substance
- resemble class A and B narcotics
- are pre-existing class A and B drugs because their constant changing chemical structures allows them to avoid legislation and exploit legal loopholes
- avoid regulations
- not safe at all - we don’t know effects and active ingredients
- public doesn’t have information about it
why does a legal drug stay legal?
revenue for government
- tax
long history of use - associated with cultures
public pressure
how are drugs reclassified?
society and media pressure
- cannabis got reclassified to class C then back to B
examples of legal drugs
caffeine
alcohol/ethanol
nicotine
examples of class C
benzodiazepines
anabolic steroids
examples of class B
cannabis
ketamine
codeine
amphetamine
examples of class A
heroin
cocaine
ecstasy/MDMA
LSD
examples of legal highs - designer drugs
mephedrone
ethylphenidate
- now both class B drugs
what drugs have been changed due to perceptions of society
cocaine
1885 - was advertised for toothaches
heroin
was advertised as anti-cough medication
morphine
- painkiller
