Did you know that some of the most commonly abused drugs are actually right under out noses? In fact, you might be consuming some of them right now, and you may not even know it. Overall, stimulant drugs might be one of the most complicated drug families on the market, given the fact that half of these substances are 100% legal and fully regulated by the government. In fact, did you now that caffeine and cocaine fall under the same general category? Both are stimulants, and both are drawn from plant material (the cocoa bean and the coca plant). Overall, the situation can get a little complicated when these chemicals enter the picture. Let’s take a closer look at some common stimulant drugs on today’s market.
Caffeine
Besides sugar, caffeine is one of the most widely consumed psychoactive drugs on the planet. Some of the most popular products containing it include chocolate, coffee, tea, energy drinks, and soft drinks. Although this drug is generally beneficial, as it can add a positive kick of energy, frequent abuse of the substance can lead to unpleasant side effects like insomnia or anxiety. While not addictive, caffeine can induce a minor form of chemical dependency.
Nicotine
Another widely used stimulant, nicotine is commonly found in tobacco cigarettes and e-cigarettes, and no medical uses for the substance exist (whatsoever). Spiraling from a worldwide habit to a public health problem, nicotine is the source of widespread addiction (40 million American addicts as of 2014) and shocking fatalities (480,000 premature annual deaths). Furthermore, tobacco (nicotine’s partner in crime) is a leading cause of illnesses like cancer.
Cocaine
In the spotlight since the 80s and 90s, cocaine is a dangerous psychoactive stimulant that is 100% illegal and 110% dangerous to human health. Once a part of legal medications in the U.S. (during the 1900s), the government started placing heavy restrictions on the drug. Now, cocaine is the 2nd most common illegal drug in the country.
Methamphetamine
One of the obvious additions to this list is methamphetamine (also crystal meth). Constructed from a variety of drugs and additional chemicals, this illegal mixture will permanently damage brain cells and trigger destructive, violent behavior. Ultimately, it can also induce “meth mouth,” when a person’s teeth rot and fall out.
Prescriptions
Let’s also not forget the problem with prescription stimulants. Typically, doctors will distribute these drugs to help people cope with problems like narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some of the most commonly abused prescription stimulants include Adderall, Dexedrine, and Ritalin.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
