Physical and Mental Effects of Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Opiate-type drugs cause:

• Sleepiness
• Lethargy
• Euphoria
• Insensitivity to pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Slowed breathing
• Constipation
• Constricted pupils

Stimulant-type drugs cause:

• Reduced appetite
• Euphoria
• Increased heart rate
• Restlessness and speeded motion
• Sleeplessness
• Stomach ache
• Dizziness

High doses of stimulants can cause:

• Increased body temperature
• Irregular heartbeat
• Heart failure
• Seizures
• Thoughts of suicide
• Paranoia
• Hostility
• Psychosis
• Delirium

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants cause:

• Slowed brain activity causing loss of coordination
• Sleepiness
• Depression
• Thoughts of self-injury or suicide
• Hallucinations
• Dilated pupils
• Weak pulse
• Tremors
• Mood swings
• Disorientation