Substances

A controlled substances is generally a drug or chemical whose manufacture, possession, or use is regulated by a government.

Cocaine

Derived from coca leaves, it is a drug sometimes known as coke, Charlie, crack and more. It is one of the most addictive drugs, giving a feeling of energy and a ‘high’. However, some users are turning to the crystal version (crack or freebase) which can be smoked. Signs of coke use include dilated pupils, high temperature, increased heart rate and insomnia. The effects of cocaine are quite short-lived and users often experience a crash once the drug has left the brain. This makes them depressed, irritable and tired.

Heroin

Derived from opium in the poppy, the controlled substance comes in the form of a light brown or white powder. So, it has a street name of brown, as well as smack, H, dope, junk and skag. Heroin also affects the brain’s ability to perceive pain and heightens feelings of pleasure. However, afterwards some users feel nauseous and experience vomiting.

Inhalants and solvents

They are usually readily available in household products that contain ingredients that when inhaled of sniffed give a high. Such substances include glue, cleaning fluids, nail polish remover, petrol, correction fluid, hair spray and propellant in other aerosol cans. Effects of intoxification can last from a matter of minutes to several hours depending on the amount and frequency of inhalation.

Ketamine substances

The full name for ketamine is ketamine hydrochloride. More commonly it is known as Ket, new ecstasy and psychedelic heroin. The drug is an anaesthetic which depresses the central nervous system. It sedates and causes hallucinations. The controlled substance also known to affect the bladder. Its licensed use is for anaesthetic in humans and animals.

LSD

Also known as acid, trips, hits and tabs, it is a hallucinogenic drug. It is one of the most potent mood changing substances. It is manufactured from lysergic acid which is found in the fungus ergot, on rye and other grains. LSD causes dilated pupils, a rise in body temperature, increased heart rate and blood pressure. However, the greatest effects are on the emotions with mood swings and these effects depend on the user’s personality and mood at the time.

All drug addictions lead to similar negative impacts on your life as a whole.

The Haynes Clinic is an alcohol and drug rehab clinic which offers detox and counselling for people with addictions.

Call 01462 851 414 for free and confidential advice.