Information on Types of Drugs
Drug and alcohol abuse is not new, yet there
are approximately 23 million people in need of drug or alcohol rehab in the
United States alone. While people getting hooked on drugs isn't just a 21st
century problem, the types of drugs available today is more than ever. There
are now many different types of prescription drugs that both teenagers and
adults are abusing, as well as a recent increase in methamphetamine, and what
most people consider to be the most dangerous street drugs are still taking
lives.
Prescription Drugs
The fastest rising category of substance abuse in the
United States in recent years is in the area of prescription drugs.
Prescription drugs with high potential
for abuse are commonly prescribed in America unfortunately and many young
people don't view them to be dangerous, yet they can be every bit as harmful as
illegal drugs. Prescription drugs such as amphetamines given to kids for
learning difficulties, narcotic painkillers for injuries and chronic pain, and
anti-anxiety medications are often the most commonly abused. Over-the-counter
drugs can also fall into this category, and a growing number of teenagers are
abusing cough medicines and other commonly-found drugs.
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs come in many types and forms. Some drugs
are snorted or swallowed, while others are smoked and even injected. Some of
the most common illegal drugs that are abused include marijuana, crack/cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, ecstasy and
LSD.
Alcohol
Alcohol is still the most commonly-abused drug in the United States. Approximately 50 percent of Americans are current alcohol users, which opens the door for the largest percentage of abuse.
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