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What are drugs?
Drugs are chemical substances capable of altering how the body and mind function. They can be natural or synthetic and, although some are used for therapeutic purposes, improper use can lead to dependence and serious consequences for physical, mental, and social health.
When use becomes compulsive and affects daily life, we refer to drug addiction, an illness that requires specialized medical treatment and psychological support.
Types of drugs: legal and illegal
Drugs are divided into two main categories:
Legal drugs
These are those whose sale and use are permitted under certain conditions, such as:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Prescription medications (anxiolytics, painkillers, etc.)
Although they are legal, misuse can cause addiction and irreversible damage to health.
Illegal drugs
These are substances prohibited by law due to their high addictive potential and danger to health. Some of the most common include:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- LSD
Each of these drugs affects the nervous system differently, but all can lead to physical and psychological dependence if not treated in time.
Drug addiction and dependence
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease characterized by the compulsive pursuit of a substance, even when it causes negative consequences.
Factors such as genetics, the social environment, emotional trauma, or mental health influence the development of this condition.
Common symptoms of addiction:
- Difficulty controlling use.
- Loss of interest in everyday activities.
- Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability.
- Family, work, or academic problems.
- Isolation and physical deterioration.
Recognizing these signs is the first step toward seeking professional help and starting the right treatment.
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Effects and consequences of drug use
Drug use may seem appealing to many people, as it is often perceived as a form of escape or recreation. In some cases, it is argued that certain drugs—whether due to their natural origin or supposed therapeutic benefits—are not harmful. However, it is essential to recognize that drug use entails significant psychological effects and serious implications for health.
Throughout this section, we will explore these effects and consequences in detail, providing key information for informed and responsible decision-making.
The general effects on health may vary depending on the type of drug and the amount used, but here is an overview of the impacts that substance abuse can have on health:
• Cardiovascular problems: Drug use, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can increase the risk of high blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, and strokes.
• Liver damage: Alcohol and some drugs, such as heroin, can cause liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatitis.
• Respiratory problems: Smoking tobacco, marijuana, or crack can damage the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory diseases such as COPD.
• Mental health disorders: Substance abuse can trigger or worsen mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
• Brain damage: Some drugs, such as ecstasy and amphetamines, can damage brain cells and affect memory and cognitive function.
• Addiction: Many drugs are highly addictive and can lead to dependence, making daily life and healthy decision-making more difficult.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Alcohol abuse and certain drugs can cause problems in the digestive system, including ulcers and gastritis.
• Risks to sexual health: Drug use can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections due to risky sexual behaviors and can also affect sexual function.
• Damage to vital organs: Prolonged substance use can damage organs such as the kidneys and heart.
• Overdose: In extreme cases, excessive drug use can lead to an overdose, which can be fatal.
Effects vary depending on the type of drug used; an overview of the effects of some other drugs includes:
• Ecstasy (MDMA): Ecstasy produces a feeling of euphoria, empathy, and increased energy. However, it can have serious side effects, such as dehydration, exhaustion, and damage to brain serotonin.
• LSD (lysergic acid): It causes visual and auditory hallucinations, changes in perception and thinking. The effects can be unpredictable and last several hours.
• Nicotine (tobacco): Nicotine is highly addictive and is present in tobacco products. Effects include increased energy, decreased appetite, and relaxation. In the long term, tobacco causes serious health problems, such as lung disease and cancer.
New drugs or synthetic drugs (NPS)
New synthetic drugs or NPS (Novel Psychoactive Substances) are substances designed to mimic the effects of other traditional drugs.
They are often marketed online or in recreational settings under appealing names such as “Legal High”, but their use carries unknown and potentially deadly risks.
Some of the most common include:
- Synthetic cannabis (Spice): can cause severe intoxication, psychosis, and seizures.
- Synthetic stimulants and hallucinogens (cathinones, tryptamines, phenethylamines): linked to violent episodes, overdoses, and severe neurological disturbances.
Symptoms of addiction to new drugs
Some signs that may indicate a dependence problem on synthetic drugs include:
- Psychotic episodes or paranoia.
- Intoxications or hospital admissions.
- The appearance of powders or herbal blends in eye-catching packaging.
- Disorientation, memory loss, or behavioral changes.
- Social isolation or prioritizing use.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention at a specialized center.
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Symptoms of addiction to new drugs
Some behaviors that can be observed to identify whether there is an addiction problem to new synthetic drugs include:
Experiencing psychotic states or persecutory delusions induced by the use of these drugs.
Experiencing hospitalizations or acute intoxications.
Finding herbal blends or white powders in plastic-wrapped packages with brand names.
Disorientation and memory loss.
If any unusual behavior, mood swings, or changes in mood are observed.
Effects may vary as more and more substances continue to appear.
Prioritizing use over other obligations
The appearance of substances in colorful packaging
Suspicions of being acquired online
Detoxification from new drugs
Detoxification is the first step in treating addiction to synthetic drugs.
Since their effects vary and many are still unknown, this process is carried out in a safe, controlled clinical setting, with constant medical monitoring.
During this phase, specific medications are administered to relieve withdrawal, and the patient’s physical and emotional stability is ensured.
Rehab and therapy
The rehab phase aims to modify the habits and perceptions that drug use has created in the patient’s mind.
At CC Adicciones, this stage is addressed through individual, group, and family therapies aimed at:
- Breaking ties with use.
- Strengthening self-esteem and motivation.
- Learning relapse-prevention strategies.
Rehabilitation from new drugs
Rehabilitation aims to assess and work on the attitudes and aptitudes that the patient addicted to new drugs has lost during the course of the illness. In most patients, many physical and psychological capacities have been diminished and need to be recovered in order to live a full life in abstinence.
This process begins in the clinic once detoxification is complete and continues once the patient returns to their environment.
Rehabilitation from new drugs
Reintegration’s main objective is to help the patient addicted to new drugs resume everyday activities in an organized way. This phase of treatment takes place once the patient returns to their environment and joins one of the different outpatient centers that CC Adicciones has throughout Spain.
During this phase, the patient and their family are supported to guide them through the process of returning to normality. At all times, they are advised by the different professionals who work in the various outpatient centers, always following CC Adicciones’ recovery model for addiction to new drugs.Adicciones.
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Treatments
Treatments for drug addiction
Frequently Asked Questions about Treatments for Various Addictions
What is meant by "other addictions"?
The term "other addictions" encompasses a variety of substance use disorders that are not included in specific categories such as alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, cocaine, heroin, among others. These may include addiction to prescription medications (such as opioid painkillers or anxiolytics), inhalants, ketamine, amphetamines, among others.
How are less common addictions identified?
The diagnosis of less common addictions is based on:
- Clinical assessment: Interviews with mental health professionals to understand patterns of use and their impact on daily life.
- Standardized questionnaires: Tools such as CAGE or AUDIT can help identify signs of dependence.
- Behavioral observation: Changes in mood, social isolation, financial or legal problems may be indicative of an addiction.
What treatments are available for these addictions?
Treatments vary depending on the substance and the person, but generally include:
- Medically supervised detoxification: To manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps identify and modify thought and behavior patterns related to use.
* Support therapies: Groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Gamblers Anonymous (GA) offer support and motivation. - Pharmacological treatment: In some cases, medications are used to reduce cravings or the effects of the substance.
What long-term effects can less common addictions have?
Addictions to less common or combined substances can affect physical, mental, and social health, causing memory problems, anxiety, depression, work difficulties, or family conflicts.
How can you identify an addiction that is not well known?
Some signs include sudden mood swings, social isolation, loss of interest in usual activities, financial problems, lying about use, and physical symptoms related to the substance.
When is it advisable to go to a specialized center for these addictions?
Whenever use affects health, personal relationships, work, or studies, or when there are symptoms of dependence, it is advisable to seek professional help as soon as possible.
What is the difference between behavioral addictions and addictions to less well-known substances?
- Behavioral addictions: involve behaviors such as gambling, compulsive shopping, or excessive use of technology.
- Addictions to less common substances: involve drugs or medications that are not included in traditional categories (amphetamines, ketamine, prescription medications).
Both require tailored professional treatment.
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