Alcohol: Effects on the Body
This organ metabolizes alcohol in the body.
What is the liver?
This is the drug commonly used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
What is naloxone (Narcan)?
Both alcohol and opioids have this potential harmful outcome, which involves an overwhelming urge to continue using the substance.
What is addiction?
Drinking large amounts of alcohol in a short period can lead to this condition, which affects judgment, motor skills, and decision-making.
What is binge drinking?
People who misuse prescription opioids may eventually switch to this illegal drug due to cost and accessibility.
What is heroin?
Chronic alcohol use can cause this type of heart condition, characterized by a weakened heart muscle.
What is cardiomyopathy?
Opioids mimic the effects of these natural chemicals in the body, causing pain relief and euphoria.
What are endorphins?
This substance affects the central nervous system, while opioids primarily target these brain receptors related to pain. (Two part question and answer)
What is alcohol, and what are pain receptors?
Chronic alcohol use increases the risk of _____, including those of the liver, mouth, and throat.
What are cancers?
This is a common mental health issue experienced by those addicted to opioids, leading to feelings of hopelessness.
What is depression?
Alcohol affects these neurotransmitters, leading to impaired judgment and motor skills.
What are GABA and glutamate?
This dangerous synthetic opioid is responsible for a large number of overdose deaths in recent years.
What is fentanyl?
These are the two main withdrawal symptoms from alcohol that can be life-threatening.
What are seizures and delirium tremens?
One of the short-term effects of alcohol use, this condition is caused by dehydration and can cause headaches and nausea.
What is a hangover?
Overusing opioids can slow down this body function, which can lead to fatal consequences.
What is the respiratory system?
This long-term effect of alcohol use can lead to cognitive impairments like memory loss.
What is brain shrinkage?
This is the term for the condition where someone’s opioid use becomes so severe that it leads to physical and psychological dependence.
What is opioid use disorder (OUD)?
While alcohol can cause aggression in the short term, opioids typically result in this emotional state.
What is emotional numbing or sedation?
Heavy alcohol use can weaken this body system, increasing vulnerability to infections.
What is the immune system?
Many people will use prescription opioids for this reason.
What is pain management?
This syndrome, involving seizures and hallucinations, can occur during alcohol withdrawal.
What is delirium tremens?
This is a significant health risk associated with heroin use due to needle sharing.
What are HIV and hepatitis?
This key difference between alcohol and opioids is why opioid overdoses often lead to death more rapidly.
What is respiratory depression?
This mental health issue is often exacerbated by chronic alcohol use, leading to feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
What is depression?
Opioid addiction can lead to this type of social consequence, causing people to withdraw from loved ones and isolate themselves.
What is social isolation?