What are the risks?

The use of drugs is like playing with fire: There are always risks involved. Among the risks is the danger of physical and/or psychological dependence. The more specific risks of the different drug types are outlined elsewhere in this website. In the present section, the risks which hold for virtually all drugs are described.

Short-term risks

To an important extent, the effect of a drug depends upon the condition and mood of the user at the point which the substance is taken. Many drugs magnify the current mood and can therefore have effects which are different from what the user expected. Discontent can turn into deep melancholy; anxiety can turn into panic. A drug can also ‘not agree’ with someone physically, which can lead to nausea, vomiting and sickness.

The use of drugs is particularly dangerous for people who are psychologically vulnerable, people with cardiovascular problems, people with mental health problems and pregnant women. Women who are breast feeding should realize that they can pass the active compound in a drug onto a baby via the milk which is drunk.

A risk of certain drugs is overdose or the consumption of a lethal amount. Some users intentionally take a high dosage. What happens more frequently, however, is that something other than what the user expects is consumed. That is, a pill or powder does not contain what the seller claims. Quality control does not exist for illegal drugs. Users can also take different drugs together with effects which are often unpredictable and sometimes lethal.

Drugs influence the perception of reality and the user’s capacity to concentrate. In traffic and at work, drug use thus increases the probability of accidents. Drug use in traffic is also therefore punishable by law. Achievement at school and work can similarly suffer as a result of drug use.

The risks associated with drug use also depend upon the manner of use. Such infectious diseases as HIV (aids) and hepatitis can be spread via the use of hypodermic needles which have already been used by someone else. The continued smoking of cocaine can severely damage the functioning of the lungs.

Long-term risks

In cases of long-term drug use, one often speaks of ‘having’ to use or addiction (physical and/or psychological dependence). The chances of physical and mental damage are large in cases of long-term addiction. Unpleasant physical problems can present themselves. For example, certain organs can function less well as a result of being overburdened.

Psychologically, long-term drug use can cause a form of ‘overheating.’ Users can only think about drugs and lose all contact with reality.

The living habits of the addicted individual can also either limit or magnify the physical and psychological damage. When only the drug is of importance to the individual and both healthy eating and the maintenance of social contacts no longer exist, the user can quickly deteriorate both physically and psychologically.