Drug abuse is a growing problem among people of all ages, but it is especially concerning for teens. If you are a parent to a teen who you suspect is abusing drugs, then you have a right to be worried. With all the various drugs that are out there, you may be wondering what types of drugs your teen may be abusing. While there are many drugs out there, three of the most commonly abused drugs include synthetic marijuana, amphetamines, and opioids.
1. Synthetic Marijuana
One of the commonly abused drugs by teens is synthetic marijuana. This is a human-made cannabinoid that consists of chemicals that alter the mind. These drugs are made by spraying chemicals on dried, shredded plant material. They are then smoked or sold as liquids, so they can be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes or other devices. They are also known as herbal or liquid incense products. Some of the examples of these products include:
- K2
- Spice
- Joker
- Black Mamba
- Kush
Synthetic cannabinoids affect the brain by acting on brain cell receptors and can produce the following effects:
- Elevated mood
- Relaxed state
- Altered perception—awareness of surrounding objects and conditions
- Symptoms of psychosis—delusional or disordered thinking detached from reality
Psychotic effects include:
- Extreme anxiety
- Hallucinations
- Confusion
- Paranoia
There can be severe effects when using this substance. Some people need emergency medical services when this occurs. The effects they may experience include:
- Accelerated heart rate
- Vomiting
- Potential for violent behavior
- Suicidal thoughts
2. Amphetamines
Amphetamines are commonly abused by teens because they give the young person a feeling of energy and alertness. The most commonly abused form of amphetamines, for teens, is Adderall. This medication is typically prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This drug affects the body in the following ways:
- Increases body temperature
- Raises the blood pressure and pulse rates
- Causes insomnia
- Ruins the appetite
- Leads to physical exhaustion
If your teen abuses this medication chronically, they may have psychosis that is similar to schizophrenia. Some of the symptoms of this include paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic behavior.
3. Opioids
Opioids are powerful narcotic drugs that are often prescribed for pain. Opioids are in a class of drugs that include both prescription and illegal drugs. Some of the most common prescription opioids include:
- Oxycodone
- OxyContin
- Hydrocodone
- Vicodin
- Codeine
- Morphine
Illegal opioids include substances such as heroin and synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
Opioids work by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other organs. These are areas that are involved in feeling pain and pleasure. When the opioids attach to the brain’s receptors, they not only block pain signals, but also release large amounts of dopamine throughout the body, providing euphoric feelings. When dopamine floods the body, it can strongly reinforce your teen to continue taking the drug. Some of the harmful effects of opioids include:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Slowed breathing
Seek Treatment for Teen Drug Abuse
If you are worried that your teen is using one of these commonly abused drugs, then reach out to Venture Academy for help. Our evidence-based treatment centre will assist your teen in getting off whatever drug they are currently using. At Venture Academy, we offer a full range of treatment programs that help teens find the path to sobriety. Some of the different treatment programs we offer include:
- 30-day assessment and intervention treatment program
- Behavioural treatment program
- Drug and alcohol treatment program
- Electronic addiction treatment program
- Residential treatment programs for troubled teens
If your teen has abused drugs or is using them regularly, don’t delay seeking treatment. Now that you know more about what the commonly abused drugs by teens are, you can seek the necessary aid. Contact Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 and caring therapists will be there every step of the way!