Heroin (diacetylmorphine) is a Schedule I controlled-substance in the United States and is considered the single most addictive drug in the world. Compared to other popular illicit drugs, heroin is associated with the highest likelihood of physical and psychological dependence. When injected intravenously, heroin avoids first-pass metabolism, meaning none of the drug is metabolized before …
Methamphetamine (MAMP), commonly referred to as “meth,” is an illicit Schedule II controlled-substance in the United States. It is often used recreationally for a variety of reasons such as to: attain a temporary state of euphoria, enhance sexual experiences, promote wakefulness, boost motivation, and/or bolster cognitive function. The pleasurable experience associated with methamphetamine usage is derived …
Nicotine is a parasympathomimetic alkaloid derived from Solanaceae plant and is commonly considered one of the most addictive drugs in the world. Upon ingestion of nicotine, it is rapidly absorbed into your bloodstream, and within 10 seconds it reaches your brain. In the brain, it stimulates the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) as an agonist to …
It is estimated that over 85% of adults in the United States have consumed alcohol at some point during their lifetime. Of these individuals, over 70% have had a drink within the past year, and upwards of 55% of individuals have had a drink within the past month. Alcoholic beverages contain the psychoactive substance “ethanol,” …
Marijuana (Cannabis) is widely regarded throughout the world as the most commonly used recreational drug. As of 2015, it is estimated that nearly 50% of residents in the United States population have ingested marijuana at some point throughout their lives. Within just the past several years, recreational marijuana usage has steadily increased. This increase is …
Cocaine (benzoylmethylecgonine) is considered to be among the world’s most addictive drugs and is most often used on a recreational basis to achieve a dopaminergic euphoria. Those that use cocaine feel an increased sense of pleasure, attain a pro-social effect (wanting to socialize), and quicker conversational wit (due to enhanced thought speed; beta waves). These effects …
There are many new medications that have been engineered specifically for the treatment of opioid dependence. Those dependent on opioids tend to experience debilitating physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. To help individuals discontinue illicit opioids like heroin, an “opioid replacement therapy” drug is often prescribed. Two of the most common opioid replacement therapy …