Caffeine is considered a naturally occurring CNS stimulant and is classified as a methylxanthine drug. Over 60 species of plants contain caffeine, most notably: coffee seeds (i.e. “beans”) and tea leaves. It is estimated that 80% (4/5) adults in the United States consume caffeine on a daily basis, and 90% of people throughout the world …
Codeine (3-methylmorphine) is an opioid medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of severe coughing (antitussive), mild to moderate pain (analgesic), and/or uncontrollable diarrhea (antidiarrheal). It is considered a natural form of methylated morphine and is the second-most significant alkaloid in opium, accounting for up to 3%. In the United States, codeine is typically manufactured in …
Percocet is a brand name medication comprised of active ingredients oxycodone (a semi-synthetic opioid) and acetaminophen (paracetamol). It was first introduced to Germany in 1917 as an intravenous formulation for pain management among soldiers in World War I. Eventually it received approval in the United States (1976) as an oral (tablet) formulation as a narcotic …
Lorazepam (brand name “Ativan”) is a benzodiazepine drug that hit the market in 1977 and is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety. Although it is a highly effective treatment option for anxiety when used over a short-term, it is regarded as problematic when taken over an extended duration. Long-term usage of lorazepam is linked to dementia, …
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 …
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 …