Other Drugs Teenagers Abuse

This article talks about some of the Other Drugs Teenagers Abuse. Although these aren't as common in teen drug use, they are very dangerous. LSD, GHB, Rohypnol, and Ketamine; what these drugs are and what effects they have on teenagers.


Chances are that if your teen becomes involved in drug use, it will take the form of alcohol, marijuana or prescriptions drugs. Club drugs may also be common for recreational purposes. However, even though drugs like LSD, GHB, Rohypnol and ketamine are not particularly popular, these drugs can pose a problem if your teenager actually starts using them.

LSD

LSD is a drug that many teens consider “risky.” This is because it is unpredictable, and many teenagers have heard stories about having a “bad trip.” LSD is a hallucinogen that can create changed perception to sight, sound and feeling. It takes between 30 minutes and 90 minutes for the drug to take effect. It affects different people in different ways depending on the following factors:

  • Dose.
  • Personality.
  • Environment.
  • Current mood.
  • Expectations of the user.

The hallucinations can be very strong and vivid. Sometimes, they can become scary. This is known as a “bad trip.” Sometimes these scary images (along with more pleasant sensations) can recur as flashbacks.

LSD is not considered an addictive drug, since it does not produce cravings. However, there are dangers associated with the drug, including increased heart rate and heightened blood pressure, dilated pupils, memory loss, sweating, dry mouth and tremors. It is possible to die from an overdose of LSD.

GHB

For quite some time, GHB has been considered a date rape drug. This is because it renders those who take it docile, as well as unconscious with the right dosage. However, GHB is emerging as a “recreational” drug as well, since it tends to offer a feeling of wellbeing and increase sociability. However, there are some effects that are quite dangerous from a large dose, or continued use of, GHB:

  • Seizure.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Respiratory problems (including slowed and stopped breathing).
  • Amnesia.
  • Coma.
  • Heart problems.

One of the scary things about GHB is the fact that it does not have an antidote. Instead, all that can be done is supportive care to keep breathing and heart functions going until the GHB has run its course in the system.

Rohypnol

Rohypnol is another date rape drug that some teens use voluntarily for recreational purposes. Outside of the United States, the drug is actually used as a sleep aid. However, it is not prescribed in the U.S. It is similar in effect to Valium, but it is much more powerful. Rohypnol is not detectable when put into a drink and dissolved. It is also inexpensive, which explains why more and more teens are beginning to use it.

A high can be experienced when one is on Rohypnol, which is why it is becoming popular as a recreational drug. It results in impaired judgment and motor skills. This is part of the reason it is used as a date rape drug. Additionally, the drug can result in memory loss. Blackouts are especially common when Rohypnol is combined with alcohol. Visual problems, dizziness, lower blood pressure, urinary retention and confusion are common effects of teen Rohypnol use.

Ketamine

Ketamine is a hallucinogen that started out as an animal tranquilizer. In some parts of the world it is still used - even in the United States in some cases. However, ketamine is not available anywhere but at veterinary offices right now. This has led to some break-ins in recent years as people try to get ketamine.

Some of the effects of ketamine include damage to heart, liver and other organs.

While some of these drugs are not particularly popular amongst teenagers, they are sometimes used. And they are dangerous. So it is important to make sure that you keep an eye on your teens, and get them help if they need it.

Related Article: Teen Prescription Drug Use >>