Webster dictionary defines a drug as "a medicine or other substance which has a physiological effect when ingested or otherwise introduced into the body”. The four major classifications of drugs are stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and narcotics. Each of these classes of drugs takes a different physiological effect on the body. Since each class causes a different type of physiological effect on the body, the reasons for their use varies greatly depending on the desired reaction within the body. These four classes are also the most common drugs to be abused due to their physiological effects. These drugs are abused through prescription and through the black market across the globe.
Stimulants are drugs that …show more content…
Hallucinogens come in a variety of different forms including: pills, blotter acids, cubes, and mushrooms. Hallucinogens can be taken orally or smoked. One common type of hallucinogen is the drug known as Ecstasy or MDMA. Ecstasy is a stimulant and a psychedelic that can cause an energizing effect on the body, distorting of time and perception, and enhanced enjoyment. Ecstasy is used to reduce inhibitions, create a euphoria sensation, provide a feeling of closeness, and increase sexuality. Ecstasy tablets often contain a combination of other drugs or are mislabeled as Ecstasy. The unknown properties of Ecstasy can cause adverse effects and even death. When using this drug, it can have many effects on the body such as alertness, fluctuating blood pressure, heart rate, and increased motor activity. If someone overdosed on Ecstasy their body would not be able to regulate temperature. This could cause a rise in body temperature which is hyperthermia and can result in kidney, liver, and cardiovascular system failure and lastly …show more content…
While all the classes of drugs differ greatly they all have physiological effects and when combined with other drugs can cause potentially life threatening effects. Drug abuse is not something that should be taken lightly and the addictiveness of a drug should always be considered before allowing that drug to enter your body. Drugs are derived from a variety of sources and if bought on the black market their contents or source cannot be known for certain. Caution should be taken when putting unknown substances into your body and the potential side effects need to be weighed against the benefits. While not all drugs are abused, they all contain addictive properties and if not used properly can cause serious