Drugs II - JSS1 Basic science Past Questions and Answers - page 2

Examples of depressants include alcohol, benzodiazepines (such as Xanax and Valium), and opioids (like heroin and prescription painkillers).

Drug abuse can have significant negative effects on various aspects of a person's life, including physical health (such as organ damage and increased risk of overdose), mental well-being (leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders), relationships (strains on family and social connections), and overall functioning (impairment in work, school, and daily responsibilities).

Signs of drug abuse may include changes in behavior, such as sudden mood swings, secretive behavior, neglecting responsibilities, physical changes like weight loss or gain, financial problems, legal issues, and withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not used.

Treatment for drug abuse often involves a combination of approaches, including therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or group therapy), medication (like opioid agonists for opioid addiction or medications to manage withdrawal symptoms), and support groups (such as Narcotics Anonymous or SMART Recovery). Additionally, lifestyle changes, social support, and ongoing monitoring and relapse prevention strategies are important components of effective treatment.