Nicotine: Smoking tobacco causes chemical and structural changes in the brain. An increasing number of brain receptors become sensitive to nicotine and in turn, require more nicotine to function. This is what causes addiction and nicotine withdrawal when a person attempts to quit smoking.
Alcohol: The human body can become dependent on alcohol. Many people are predisposed to alcohol abuse because of a family history. Other factors like environmental causes and personality can also contribute to an addiction to alcohol.
Caffeine: Caffeine addiction is real. Coffee, tea, soda and energy drinks all contain caffeine. Withdrawal symptoms can occur 12 to 24 hours after quitting and symptoms may include headache, depression, lethargy, nausea and muscle pain or stiffness.
Marijuana: Marijuana use produces relaxation, increased hearing and taste and euphoria. Negative effects of marijuana use can include panic attacks, paranoia, lack of coordination and difficulty performing tasks. Users of marijuana find it tough to quit and may experience anxiety, irritability and insomnia while trying to quit.
PCP: Phencyclidine is also known as PCP or angel dust. It creates feelings of euphoria. It can also cause hallucinations and lead to kidney failure, heart arrhythmias, seizures or death. PCP was first developed as a painkiller but was not approved because of its mind-altering side effects. Many PCP users are not conscious of the dangerous effects of using the drug.
Cocaine: Using cocaine provides a feeling of euphoria. There is a marked feeling of increased energy, less inhibition and stimulation of the central nervous system. Cocaine use can eventually cause social withdrawal, depression, memory loss and mood swings.
Amphetamines: In the 1960s, amphetamines were used to fight fatigue and treat mild depression. Amphetamines are a very addictive class of drugs. The drug is a stimulant that can be found in lower doses of over-the-counter medication, sometimes used in appetite suppressants or to help keep people awake. Abuse of amphetamines in high doses can cause regular users to suffer from irritability, restlessness and tremors.
Inhalants: The abuse of inhalants has become a huge problem, especially among teenagers. Inhalants are found in cleaning fluids, paints, model glue, hairspray, spray paints, gasoline and aerosol cans. The use of inhalants can cause brain damage, liver or kidney damage, convulsions, nerve damage and sudden death.
Heroin: Heroin is a highly addictive drug. Heroin addicts can overdose, and often die. Withdrawal from the drug must be done under medical care. The drug is often injected so there is a significant risk in the sharing of needles. This raises the likelihood of contracting a bloodborne virus like hepatitis or HIV.
Oxycodone: Oxycodone is a prescription pain medication. It is a highly addictive drug. Those who are addicted to oxycodone may experience bursts of energy but also depression or nervousness.
