Substance Definitions
Any substance that produces significant changes in the brain, body, or both
Drug
Using a drug for its intended purpose as prescribed
Drug Use
Uses drugs once in a while (such as at a party or social gatherings).
Recreational Use
Your friend is showing signs of an opioid overdose at a party you both attended (pinpoint pupils, labored breathing). You call 911, but are scared that you will get in trouble. However, these laws protect you from getting in trouble.
Good Samaritan Laws
People used to use nicotine to help with this ailment
Drowning & Asthma
A plant, consisting of two main chemicals that cause direct effects on the body known as THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol and CBD, Cannabidiol.
Cannabis/ Marijuana
When a person needs more of a substance to get the same effect
Tolerance
Has not used or tried the particular drug.
Never Used
Measurement of a Standard drink of hard alcohol
1.5 oz
This type of drug mimics the body's natural pain relief system, but is also what can make them so addictive, leading to nausea, constipation, erratic or slowed breathing (in the case of overdose).
Opioids
Substance that has the ability to excite the body's central nervous system through a release of neurotransmitters. Name one example.
Stimulants (Cocaine, Crack, Caffeine, Nicotine, Amphetamine, etc.)
Taking a drug not as prescribed or not for its intended use- Also, misreading how to administer/ take drug
Drug Misuse
A condition in which a person takes a drug over time, and unpleasant physical symptoms occur if the drug is suddenly stopped or taken in smaller doses.
Physical Dependence
The safest choice when it comes to drugs- always true, no matter how many times – or not! – someone has used drugs before.
Don't Use (Abstinence)
This psychoactive property of Cannabis can lead you to feeling high and is also the part that can lead to addiction.
THC
Substances that increases the brain's amount of neurotransmitter GABA and slows brain function as it depresses the CNS.
Uncomfortable feeling that can happen when someone who is dependent on drugs tries to stop using and happens because of the adaptations the brain makes after the overproduction of neurotransmitters (like dopamine) during drug use/abuse.
Withdrawl
Tried the drug once or twice and never continued, or tried once or twice and are unsure if they are going to use again.
Experimental Use
Know how to respond in an emergency. After 911 is called in a situation with concern for alcohol poisioning. You put the person in this position until medical attention arrives.
Signs of Alcohol Poisioning: CUPS Acronym
C: Cold, clammy skin
U: Unconsciousness
P: Puking (particularly while unconscious)
S: Slowed Breathing
Class of drugs originally from poppy plant, although now there are synthetic and semi-synthetic versions available.
Opioids
Taking a drug that is not prescribed or for recreational use/ not for its intended use- regular or compulsive use of drug in a habitual way
Drug Abuse
Medical term used to describe a pattern of using a substance (drug) that causes significant problems or distress.
Substance Use Disorder
Someone offers you a vodka redbull and your politely decline due to this harm reduction strategy
Don't Mix Drugs (Polydrug Use)