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The Effects of Recreational Drug Use

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The Effects of Recreational Drug Use

Recreational drugs are drugs that are taken illegally or legally. They are not taken for medical reasons.

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Recreational drugs

  • People take recreational drugs because they enjoy the effects that drugs have on the body.
  • Recreational drugs can be both illegal and legal.
  • Recreational drugs can be very addictive.
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Depressants

  • Some recreational drugs are classified as depressants.
  • Depressants affect the central nervous system.
    • Depressants can slur speech and limit concentration.
    • Depressants are sometimes called downers.
  • Depressants slow down brain activity and can be used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
  • Examples of depressants include:
    • Alcohol (a legal drug)
    • Heroin (an illegal drug)
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Stimulants

  • Some recreational drugs are classified as stimulants.
  • Stimulants are the opposite of depressants.
    • Stimulants speed up messages to the brain and central nervous system.
    • Stimulants can make a person feel more confident and more awake.
  • Examples of stimulants include:
    • Caffeine and nicotine (legal drugs)
    • Amphetamines and cocaine (illegal drugs)

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1Biology

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1.2Reproduction & Variation

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4Thinking Scientifically

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