The debate over whether or not cocaine is addictive is ongoing and complicated. The majority of mental health professionals take the view that regular cocaine users cannot voluntarily stop taking the drug. In this sense, cocaine meets the definition of an addictive drug. Moreover, these experts believe that cocaine use leads to physical changes [...]

Methamphetamine is one of many stimulants (e.g., amphetamine, cocaine, caffeine, nicotine) with a wide variety of molecular structures and chemical mechanisms. What the various stimulants have in common are effects that mimic those of the sympathetic nervous system, both peripheral and central nervous system components, to produce arousing effects similar to epinephrine. The peripheral nervous [...]

Although most neurologists and pharmacologists report few lasting adverse physical effects from hallucinogen use, one concern among those who formulate the government’s drug policies is whether hallucinogens might be addictive. Of the scientific studies that have focused on this aspect of hallucinogens, none has concluded that they are addictive. This means that their [...]

Compared to other chronic illnesses, addictions are highly treatable. O’Brien and McLellan (1996) in a review of treatment research found that for alcoholism treatment success rates averaged about 50 percent (range 40-70 percent, opiate dependence 60 percent (range 50-80 percent), cocaine dependence 55 percent (range 50-60 percent), and nicotine [...]

Methamphetamine is a synthetic psychostimulant that physicians have legally prescribed as a treatment for attention deficit disorder under the brand name Desoxyn. The drug can be made easily in clandestine labs with over-the-counter ingredients. For addicts, it is relatively inexpensive to purchase and has desired effects that last for hours. The desired effects of meth [...]

Entries are arranged alphabetically and follow a standardized format that allows to easily find information, and also facilitates comparisons of different drugs. Rubrics include: • Official names, Street names: This section lists the alternate names for a substance, including brand names, generic names, and chemical names for drugs, as well as common “street” names for [...]

Opium: Composition, Therapeutic use, Usage trends. Treatment and rehabilitation. Opium effects. Reactions with other drugs.

Nitrous Oxide: Composition, Therapeutic use, Usage trends. Treatment and rehabilitation. Nitrous Oxide effects. Reactions with other drugs.

Nicotine: Composition, Therapeutic use, Usage trends. Treatment and rehabilitation. Nicotine effects. Reactions with other drugs.

Nicotine: Composition, Therapeutic use, Usage trends. Treatment and rehabilitation. Nicotine effects. Reactions with other drugs.