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16
Alcohol
Low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination needed to operate vehicles. Small
amounts can also lower inhibitions. Moderate to high doses cause marked impairments in higher mental
functions, and loss of memory and the ability to learn and remember information. High doses cause
respiratory depression and death. Long-term consumption, particularly when combined with poor
nutrition, can also lead to dependence and permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the
liver. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol
will produce the effects just described. Women who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to
infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental
retardation.
Cannabis (Marijuana, Hashish, Hashish Oil, Tetrahydrocannabinal)
Physical effects of cannabis include increased heart rate, bloodshot eyes, dry mouth and throat, and
increased appetite. Use of cannabis may impair or reduce short-term memory and comprehension, alter
sense of time, reduce ability to perform tasks requiring concentration and coordination, and impair
driving ability. Motivation and cognition may be altered, making the acquisition of new information
difficult. Marijuana, hashish, THC, etc., can also produce paranoia and psychosis. Long term use may
result in possible lung damage, reduced sperm count and sperm motility, and may affect ovulation
cycles. Cannabis can also be psychologically addictive.
Inhalants (Nitrous Oxide, Amyl Nitrite, Butyl Nitrite, Chlorohydrocarbons, Hydrocarbons)
Immediate effects of inhalants include nausea, sneezing, coughing, nosebleeds, fatigue, lack of
coordination, and loss of appetite. Solvents and aerosol sprays also decrease the heart and respiratory
rates and impair judgment. Amyl and butyl nitrite cause rapid pulse, headaches, and involuntary passing
of urine and feces. Long-term use may result in hepatitis or brain damage. Deeply inhaling vapors, or
using large amounts over a short time, may result in disorientation, violent behavior, unconsciousness,
or death. High concentrations of inhalants can cause suffocation by displacing oxygen in lungs. Long-
term use can cause weight loss, fatigue, electrolyte imbalance, muscle fatigue, and permanent damage
to the nervous system.
Cocaine (Crack)
Cocaine stimulates the central nervous system. Its immediate effects include dilated pupils and elevated
blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature. Occasional use can cause nasal
irritation: chronic use can ulcerate the mucous membrane of the nose. Crack or freebase rock is
extremely addictive. Physical effects include dilated pupils, increased pulse rate, elevated blood
pressure, insomnia, loss of appetite, tactile hallucinations, paranoia, and seizures. The use of cocaine
can cause death by cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.
Stimulants (Amphetamines, Methamphetamines, Adderall, Ritalin, Crank, Ice)
Stimulants cause increased heart and respiratory rates, elevated blood pressure, dilated pupils, and
decreased appetite. Users may experience sweating, headache, blurred vision, dizziness, sleeplessness,
and anxiety. Extremely high doses can cause rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, loss of coordination,
and physical collapse. Amphetamine injection creates a sudden increase in blood pressure that can
result in stroke, very high fever, or heart failure. In addition to physical effects, feelings of restlessness,
anxiety, and moodiness can result. Use of large amounts over a long period of time can cause
amphetamine psychosis that includes hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. The use of amphetamines