Drug Basics
What is a Drug?
A substance that changes how the body or brain works.
What does drug misuse mean?
Using a drug incorrectly or in an unsafe way.
Which organ controls thinking, memory, and decision-making?
The brain.
What is the name of the addictive substance found in many vapes?
Nicotine.
What is the simplest way to refuse something you don't want to do?
Say no clearly and confidently.
Name two types of drugs discussed in class.
Any two: prescription medicine, over-the-counter medicine, nicotine, marijuana/THC, or illegal drugs.
True or false: Taking someone else's prescription medicine is safe if they have the same symptoms.
False. Never take medicine prescribed for someone else.
Drugs can affect which organ responsible for breathing?
The lungs.
True or false: Vaping produces only harmless water vapor.
False. Vapes produce an aerosol that can contain harmful substances.
Name two refusal strategies.
Any two: say no, give a reason, suggest another activity, walk away, or find support.
True or false: All drugs are illegal.
False. Many medicines are legal and can be helpful when used correctly.
Name one way someone can misuse medicine.
Taking too much, sharing medicine, taking someone else's prescription, or using medicine differently than directed.
Name two ways drugs can affect a person's body or brain.
Any two: changes in judgment, memory, emotions, heart rate, breathing, balance, or reaction time.
What does addiction mean?
Having difficulty stopping the use of a substance despite harmful consequences.
A friend offers you a vape. Give an example of refusing and suggesting something else.
For example: 'No thanks. Let's go play basketball instead.'
What is the difference between prescription medicine and over-the-counter medicine?
Prescription medicine requires authorization from a healthcare provider; over-the-counter medicine can be purchased without a prescription.
Why is following the directions on medication important?
It helps ensure the medicine is used safely and as intended.
Why is substance use especially concerning for teenagers?
Their brains are still developing, and some substances can interfere with healthy brain development.
Name two ways nicotine can affect the body or brain.
It can affect attention, learning, brain development, heart rate, and cause cravings or addiction.
Someone continues pressuring you after you've said no. Name two things you could do.
Walk away and seek help from a trusted adult.
Why is it incorrect to say that every drug is harmful?
Some drugs are medicines that can treat illnesses or health conditions when used correctly.
A friend offers you their prescription medication because you have a headache. What should you do?
Refuse it and ask a parent, guardian, school nurse, or trusted adult for help.
A person has difficulty balancing and reacting quickly after taking a substance. Which two abilities have been affected?
Coordination and reaction time.
Why can vaping be particularly harmful for middle-school students?
Nicotine can be addictive and can affect the developing teenage brain, including attention and learning.
At a sleepover, someone offers you an unknown pill and says, 'Everyone is trying it.' Explain how you would use at least three refusal strategies.
For example: say 'No,' explain that taking unknown pills is unsafe, leave the situation, and tell a trusted adult.