Are you into drugs? Oh dear! Why on Earth? Its harmful to your health, don’t you know? And even to the others around you? You need rehab? Whatever! If you’re not into drugs, or even if you know someone who into substances, chances are they are harming you than themselves — if you care to know. The influence of certain drugs are more harmful to non-consumers than the consumers of it. For instance, smoking. Do you need a crash course? Dear friends, here are the ten most harmful drugs on Earth, according to science.
Related media: Top 10 Most Addictive Substances In The World
#10. Benzodiazepine
Drug: Benzodiazepine;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 15 percent harmful (10 to users, less than 5 to others).
These are a class of psychoactive drugs that can be harmful due to their potential for dependence, addiction, and adverse effects. While these medications are prescribed to treat conditions like anxiety and insomnia, their long-term use can lead to tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and an increased risk of accidents and falls.
Overuse or misuse of benzodiazepines may result in cognitive impairment, memory issues, and mental health challenges. It’s crucial for individuals prescribed these drugs to follow medical guidance closely and be aware of the associated risks.
Are you addicted to benzodiazepine?
#9. GHB
Drug: Gamma hydroxybutyrate;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 19 percent harmful (15 to users, less than 5 to others).
Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant that can be harmful when misused. Originally developed as an anesthetic, GHB gained popularity as a recreational drug.
Its harmful effects include sedation, dizziness, nausea, and, in higher doses, respiratory depression, seizures, and unconsciousness. GHB is infamous for its association with drug-facilitated sexual assault due to its sedative properties.
Overdose of GHB can be life-threatening, leading to coma or even death. Its unpredictable nature and potential for misuse highlight the importance of understanding its risks and avoiding recreational use.
Are you addicted to GHB?
#8. Cannabis
Drug: Tetrahydrocannabinol;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 20 percent harmful (13 to users, 7 to others).
Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is a psychoactive substance that can have both short-term and long-term effects on health. While it has therapeutic uses, its misuse or excessive consumption can be harmful.
Short-term effects may include impaired memory, altered judgment, and coordination issues. Long-term use, especially in high doses, has been associated with respiratory problems, mental health issues, and addiction.
Additionally, cannabis use can impact cognitive function, particularly in adolescents whose brains are still developing. It’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and use cannabis responsibly, considering individual health circumstances and legal regulations.
Are you addicted to cannabis?
#7. Amphetamine
Drug: Amphetamine;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 23 percent harmful (20 to users, less than 5 to others).
Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that, when misused, can harm the body. They increase alertness and energy but can cause short-term effects like elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, and appetite loss.
Long-term misuse can lead to serious health issues such as cardiovascular problems, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and addiction. Chronic abuse of amphetamines can negatively impact mental health, causing problems like psychosis and cognitive impairments.
Stopping use suddenly may result in withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue and depression. It’s important to only use amphetamines as prescribed by a doctor and be aware of potential risks.
Are you addicted to amphetamine?
#6. Tobacco
Drug: Tobacco;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 27 percent harmful (18 to users, 9 to others).
Tobacco is harmful to health as it contains substances like nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. Smoking can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and different types of cancer, particularly lung cancer.
Moreover, nicotine in tobacco is highly addictive, making it challenging to quit smoking. Efforts to reduce harm involve encouraging people to quit smoking, running public health campaigns, and raising awareness about the severe consequences of tobacco use.
Are you addicted to tobacco?
#5. Cocaine
Drug: Cocaine;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 27 percent harmful (19 to users, 8 to others).
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant derived from the coca plant, causing harmful effects on both physical and mental health. Short-term use may lead to increased heart rate and euphoria, but repeated or prolonged use can result in severe consequences such as heart and respiratory issues, anxiety, and addiction.
Long-term use may contribute to mental health disorders. Cocaine use can also lead to risky behaviors, impacting relationships and increasing the risk of accidents.
Its illegal production often contributes to criminal activities. Avoiding cocaine is crucial for overall well-being, and seeking professional help for addiction is essential.
Are you addicted to cocaine?
#4. Methamphetamine
Drug: Methamphetamine;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 33 percent harmful (30 to users, less than 5 to others).
Methamphetamine, or meth, is a strong stimulant with harmful effects on the body and mind. Short-term use brings increased energy but can lead to issues like dental problems and insomnia.
Prolonged use results in severe consequences, including anxiety, hallucinations, and violent behavior. Long-term use harms the cardiovascular system, liver, and kidneys.
Meth is addictive, and its production involves toxic chemicals, posing risks to individuals and communities. Staying away from meth is essential for overall health and well-being.
Are you addicted to methamphetamine?
#3. Crack Cocaine
Drug: Crack Cocaine;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 54 percent harmful(35 to users, 19 to others).
Crack cocaine is a highly potent and addictive form of cocaine. It is smoked, delivering an intense and immediate euphoric high. However, the risks associated with crack cocaine are Alcohol
Short-term effects include intense cravings, paranoia, and aggression, while long-term use can lead to addiction, cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues, and mental health disorders.
It is rapid and intense impact on the brain’s reward system makes it highly addictive, often resulting in a destructive cycle of use. Engaging in crack cocaine poses serious health and social risks, emphasizing the importance of avoiding its use.
Are you addicted to crack cocaine?
#2. Heroin
Drug: Heroin;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 55 percent harmful (33 to users, 22 to others).
Heroin is a highly addictive illegal drug derived from morphine. It can be injected, smoked, or snorted, leading to immediate feelings of pleasure, drowsiness, and slowed breathing.
Long-term use can cause serious health problems, addiction, and a decline in overall well-being. The risk of overdose is high due to the drug’s unpredictable purity.
Heroin use can also harm relationships, lead to legal issues, and negatively impact one’s quality of life. Avoiding heroin is essential for maintaining good health and a better life.
Are you addicted to heroin?
#1. Alcohol
Drug: Alcohol;
Addiction rate:
Harmful effects: 72 percent harmful (27 to users, 45 to others).
Drinking too much alcohol can harm your health, leading to issues like liver disease, heart problems, and a higher risk of certain cancers. It affects thinking, coordination, and judgment, causing accidents.
Long-term abuse can lead to addiction, impacting mental well-being. Excessive drinking strains relationships, affects work, and may result in legal troubles. It is important to drink responsibly and seek help if needed.
Are you addicted to alcohol?
What’s even more?
Ketamine (15), Methadone (14), Mephredrone (13), Butane (11), Khat (9), Anabolic Steroids (10), Ecstasy (9), Lysergic acid diethylamide (7), Buprenorphine (7), and Mushrooms (6), are the next ten harmful drugs to drug users.
Have you ever tried any of these drugs before?
Source: Lancet
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Written by: Nana Kwadwo, Mon, May 23, 2022.
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