DRUG EDUCATION

Objective:
At the end of this module, the students are expected to:

a. Understand the significant concepts in drug education.

b. Cite ways to stay away from influences of drug abuse.

c. Reflect on the reasons why people resort to drug abuse.

1. WHAT IS DRUG?
It is a substance that affects the function of living cells, used in medicine to diagnose, cure, and prevent
the occurrence of diseases and disorders, and prolong the life of patients with incurable conditions.
Since 1900, the availability of new and more effective drugs such as antibiotics, which fight bacterial
infections, and vaccines, which prevent diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, has increased the
average Filipino life span from about 60 years to about 75 years. Drugs have vastly improved the quality
of life. Today, drugs have contributed to the eradication of once widespread and sometimes fatal
diseases such as poliomyelitis and smallpox.

There are 2 classifications of DRUGS

Legal & Illegal
Legal drugs can either be bought over the counter or with a prescription from a medical doctor.
Illegal drugs cannot legally be manufactured, bought or sold. And some other drugs are legal in
some situations but illegal when abused.

2. WHAT IS DRUG EDUCATION ABOUT?

I. UNDERSTANDING DRUG DEPENDENCE: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS
Introduction:

Drug dependence has emerged as a pressing social issue with far-reaching consequences,
affecting various segments of society. It doesn't discriminate among age groups or socio-
economic backgrounds, impacting not only youth but also individuals from diverse social,
financial, and economic backgrounds. This problem is deeply concerning because it erodes one's
character and leads to criminal activities and even suicide, ultimately ruining lives. Research
indicates that drug dependence is more prevalent in urban areas than in rural regions, possibly
due to greater exposure to drugs in urban settings. However, this doesn't imply that rural
inhabitants are more psychologically stable; it may simply reflect differences in drug accessibility.

Drug education helps children and young people understand that all drugs, legal and illegal, have
the potential to cause harm, and that the drug experience is because of many factors including
the person, the drug and the environment.
The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165) : RA 9165, known as the
"Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002," replaced the 1972 Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 6425). Its
primary aim is to protect the well-being of citizens, especially the youth, from the harmful effects of
dangerous drugs on their physical and mental health. Additionally, it seeks to combat drug trafficking and
abuse through the implementation of anti-drug policies, programs, and projects. Furthermore, the act
establishes mechanisms for the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals affected by drug abuse or
dependence.

It was signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on June 7, 2002. It repealed Republic Act
No. 6425, otherwise known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972, as amended, and providing funds for its
implementation. It is also the time where in PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is
created

Key Provisions of RA 9165: Use of Dangerous Drugs (Section 15):

● For a first offense of being found positive for drug use, a minimum of six months of
rehabilitation in a government center is imposed.

● A second offense results in imprisonment ranging from six years and one day to twelve years
and a fine of P50,000 to P200,000.

● Exceptions apply when a person found positive for drug use is also in possession of a specified
quantity of dangerous drugs.

Cultivation or Culture of Plants Classified as Dangerous Drugs (Section 16):

● Planting, cultivating, or culturing marijuana, opium poppy, or any plant classified as a

dangerous drug is punishable by life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500,000 to
P10,000,000.

● The land or greenhouses used for cultivation are confiscated in favor of the State unless the
owner proves a lack of knowledge.

● Penalties also apply to organizers, managers, or financiers of illegal activities related to

dangerous drugs.

● The Role of Drugs in Medicine:

●Drugs play a pivotal role in modern medicine. They are substances that affect the function of
living cells, used for diagnosing, curing, preventing diseases, and improving the quality of life for
patients with incurable conditions. The availability of new and more effective drugs, such as
antibiotics and vaccines, has significantly increased the average lifespan of Filipinos.

3. BAD EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE

The Role of Drugs in Medicine:
Drugs play a pivotal role in modern medicine. They are substances that affect the function of
living cells, used for diagnosing, curing, preventing diseases, and improving the quality of life for
 patients with incurable conditions. The availability of new and more effective drugs, such as
antibiotics and vaccines, has significantly increased the average lifespan of Filipinos.

Drug Abuse and Its Consequences:

Drug Abuse is a problem that adversely affects our most precious resource, the Filipino youth.
Hence, the Philippine Government through the Dangerous Drug Board has taken the initiative to
prevent the menace and widespread of this social epidemic that will destroy the lives and
aspirations of our youth.

Drug abuse or substance abuse refers to the use of certain chemicals for the purpose of creating
pleasurable effects on the brain. There are over 190 million drug users around the world and the
problem has been increasing at alarming rates, especially among young adults under the age of
30 (Mandal, 2023).

Drug abuse is a grave issue, particularly affecting Filipino youth. The government, through the
Dangerous Drug Board, has initiated measures to prevent the widespread destruction caused by
this social epidemic.

Examples of Drug Abuse

 People consuming pills to commit suicide

 Taking prescription drug at higher doses than prescribed to get a euphoric feeling (to get high)

Reason Why People Abuse Drugs

 to get high / to feel good

 to inflict self-harm

 peer pressure, exposure to a peer group that tolerates/encourage drug abuse

 beliefs and attitude towards it

 prescription drugs

General Symptoms of Drug Abuse:

Recognizing the signs of drug abuse is essential for early intervention and support:

a. Abrupt changes in school or work attendance, quality of work, and grades.

b. Unusual temper flare-ups or outbreaks.

c. Withdrawal from responsibilities.

d. Deterioration in overall attitude.

e. Decline in physical appearance and grooming.

 f. Furtive behavior regarding actions.

g. Wearing sunglasses to hide dilated or constricted pupils.

h. Association with known drug abusers.

i. Unusual borrowing of money from parents or friends.

j. Stealing small items to support a drug habit.

Drug Overdose
Drug overdose is a serious matter. Unfortunately, many adults and teens suffer from its slings.
Drug overdose is when you take more than the recommended amount of medicine/drug.
Usually, drug overdose is a mask, hiding other problems such as insecurity, self-loathing, a sense
of failure, and deep unabiding depression. These problems must also be addressed in order to
prevent the "self-medication" that so many drug addicts do, thus developing into a dangerous
overdose.

CLASSIFICATION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS

A. Marijuana. Pot, Grass, Weed, Refer, Dope, Mary Jane, Sinsomilla, Acapulco Gold, Thai Sticks,
"Damo

The hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L) grows wild or is cultivated in temperate to tropical climates.
The principal psychoactive component of cannabis is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (also referred
to as deltas-9 THC), which is concentrated in the resin.

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that has been used for various purposes for
thousands of years. It belongs to the Cannabis genus and has several species, with Cannabis
sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis being the most well-known. The plant contains
chemical compounds called cannabinoids, with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and
cannabidiol (CBD) being the most studied and prominent.

The history of cannabis legality in the Philippines can be summarized as follows:

★ RA 6425 (Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972): In 1972, the Philippines passed Republic Act No. 6425,
also known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972. This law classified marijuana (cannabis) as a
prohibited drug, making its cultivation, possession, sale, importation, manufacture, and use
illegal. It also outlined strict punishments for individuals involved in any aspect of the drug trade
and the possession of drug-related paraphernalia. Additionally, RA 6425 established the
Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), which was tasked with overseeing drug-related cases and
formulating policies related to illegal drugs.
 ★ Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165): In 2002, the Philippines introduced the
Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which effectively repealed RA 6425. RA 9165 not
only reinforced the prohibition of cannabis but also expanded the government's efforts to
combat illegal drugs. One significant development under RA 9165 was the creation of the
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). The PDEA is responsible for implementing and
enforcing policies and strategies devised by the Dangerous Drugs Board. It operates as the
primary law enforcement agency dedicated to addressing drug-related issues in the country.

Under RA 9165, the penalties for drug-related offenses, including those involving cannabis, can be
severe, including imprisonment and fines. The law takes a strict stance against the use, possession, sale,
or cultivation of illegal drugs, including marijuana.

Signs and Symptoms of a Marijuana User

1. In the early stage of intoxication, may appear animated with rapid loud talking and bursts of
laughter.

2. In the later stages, appear sleepy or stuporous.

3. Pupils are usually dilated.

4. Remnants of marijuana joints, either loose or partially smoked joints are in the pockets of the
user.

5. The odor of the user is similar to burnt rope or old clothing.

6. Vital signs are increased (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate).

7. Bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, and throat

8. Short-term memory and comprehension.

9. Poor concentration and coordination thereby, dangerous to drive.

10. Altered senses of time and place

11. Motivation and cognition may be altered.

12. In the male, it reduces sperm production and damages the sperm cells.

13. In the female, the menstrual cycle is irregular and damages the egg cell.

14. It also produces paranoia and psychosis.

It's important to note that the effects of marijuana can vary widely from person to person and
depend on factors such as the strain of cannabis, the method of consumption, the dosage, and an
individual's tolerance. Additionally, the legal status of marijuana varies by location, so it's essential to be
aware of local laws and regulations regarding its use.
B. Inhalants
Inhalants are volatile substances that produce chemical vapors that can be inhaled to induce a
psychoactive, mind-altering effect. These substances include a wide range of products that are not
typically intended for recreational use but are abused by individuals seeking a quick high.

1. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas, Whippets): Nitrous oxide is often used in dental procedures and as
a propellant in whipped cream dispensers. When abused, it can lead to a euphoric, dissociative
high. Signs of abuse may include the odor of nitrous oxide on the person's breath or clothing,
slurred speech, and poor muscular control. Immediate negative effects can include nausea,
sneezing, coughing, nosebleeds, and loss of appetite.

2. Amyl Nitrite (Poppers, Snappers): Amyl nitrite is a vasodilator used medically to treat certain
heart conditions. Abusing it can result in feelings of lightheadedness, warmth, and enhanced
sensory experiences. Signs of abuse may include the odor of amyl nitrite on the person, along
with drowsiness, poor muscular control, and potential unconsciousness.

3. Butyl Nitrite (Bolt, Locker Room, Bullet): Like amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite is also used medically as
a vasodilator. Abusing it can lead to similar effects as amyl nitrite, including drowsiness, poor
muscular control, and unconsciousness.

4. Chlorohydrocarbon (Kerosol Spray): Chlorohydrocarbons are found in various household

products like aerosol sprays. When inhaled, they can cause irritation and damage to the
respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as reddening or inflammation of the nasal
membrane, coughing, and sneezing.

5. Hydrocarbon Solvents (Rugby, Gasoline, Acetone, Paint Thinner): These substances, when
inhaled, can produce a range of effects, including dizziness, confusion, and incoordination. Long-
term abuse can lead to chronic health problems, including damage to the central nervous
system.

Signs and Symptoms of Abuse of Inhalants and Solvents as Rugby, Gasoline, Acetone, Paint
Thinner and Others
1. Odor of substance on breath and clothing

2. Excess nasal secretions and lacrimation

3. Poor muscular control

4. Drowsiness or unconsciousness

5. Reddening or inflammation of the nasal membrane

6. Slurring of speech

7. In possession of a plastic bag with inhaling substance

8. Immediate negative effects are nausea, sneezing, coughing, nose bleeding, and loss of appetite.
 9. Deep inhaling of vapors and using large amounts may result to disorientation and violent
behaviors.

10. A long period of sniffing of concentrated vapors can permanently damage the central nervous
system.

Inhalant abuse can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. Long-term abuse can lead to
serious health issues, including damage to the brain, heart, liver, kidneys, and other organs. Additionally,
the abuse of inhalants can be addictive, and individuals who use them may require professional
treatment to overcome their addiction and address any associated health problems.

C. Stimulants
Stimulant drugs are a class of psychoactive drug that provides temporary improvements in
physical or mental functioning, thus elevating mood and increasing feelings of wellbeing, energy
and alertness. Stimulants are often called uppers.

Stimulants are abused in several ways, depending on the type. Stimulant drugs can be swallowed
in pill form, snorted as a powder, injected with a needle or syringe, or heated into crystal form
and smoked. Injected or smoked stimulants reach the brain faster and therefore produce the
most intense highs. Snorting or swallowing stimulants produces a high that is less intense but
longer lasting.

1. Cocaine - Coke, Flake, White Blow, Nose Candy, C, Snowbird, Lady

2. Crack or Cocaine-Crack, Freebase rocks, Rock

3. Amphetamine - Speed, Uppers, Ups, Black Pep Pills, Co-pilot, Bumblebees, Heart, Footballs

4. Methamphetamine - Crack, Crystal math, Methedrine, Speed, "Shabu"

Signs and Symptoms of a Stimulant Drug Abuser

1. Pupils are dilated when large amount is taken.

2. Mouth and nose are dry, causing bad breath. It also makes the user licks his lips frequently

3. Goes long period without eating or sleeping

4. Chain smoking

5. A user may have hidden needles, syringes and droppers in his belongings.

6. . Hyperactive, restless, talkative

7. Argumentative, alert, irritable, excited and provocative

8. All vital signs are increased (blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, heart rate).

9. Bloodshot eyes; body temperature is low.

10. Abuser may suffer from delusion of grandeur and paranoia.

 11. High doses can cause rapid and irregular heartbeat, tremors and heart failure.

12. Very nervous and irritable

Stimulant drug abuse can have serious physical, psychological, and social consequences. Prolonged use
can lead to addiction and a range of health problems, including heart issues, cognitive impairments, and
mental health disorder.

5 CLASSIFICATION OF DRUG ABUSER

Substance abusers can be classified according to the frequency of their substance use.

1. Experimenters:

● Experimenters are individuals who engage in drug use primarily out of curiosity or peer
pressure. They have limited or no regular exposure to drugs.

● These individuals might try a drug once or a few times without forming a habit.

● The motivations for experimentation can vary widely, including a desire for novelty or a
social context that encourages trying substances.

● Experimentation doesn't necessarily lead to problematic drug use, but it can be a risk
factor if it escalates.

2. Occasional Users:

● Occasional users are those who consume drugs intermittently, often on specific
occasions or infrequently.

● Special occasions could include parties, celebrations, or social gatherings where drug use
is seen as part of the event.

● They may use substances like alcohol, marijuana, or other recreational drugs
sporadically, typically ranging from once every two weeks to a few times a week.

● These individuals might not perceive their drug use as problematic, but it can still carry
risks, especially if they engage in risky behaviors while under the influence.

3. Regular Users:

● Regular users have established a consistent pattern of drug use, which may indicate a
deeper involvement with substances.

● They tend to use drugs more frequently, often three to four times a week or even every
other day.

● Their drug use may have become integrated into their daily routines or lifestyle.

● Regular users are at an increased risk of developing tolerance (needing more of the
substance to achieve the desired effect) and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when
they try to quit.
 4. Drug Dependents:

● Drug dependents are individuals who have developed a substantial physical and
psychological dependence on a drug.

● They often use the drug daily or nearly every day, sometimes multiple times within a
day.

● Dependence is characterized by a strong craving for the substance, an inability to control

drug use, and withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop using.

● This category represents a significant level of substance use disorder and typically
requires specialized treatment and intervention to address the dependence.

5. Mentally Ill Chemical Abuser/Substance-Induced Psychosis:

● This category encompasses drug abusers who experience signs and symptoms of
psychotic disorders as a direct result of their substance use.

● Psychotic symptoms can include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't real),
disorientation (confusion), delusions (false beliefs), and severe disturbances in thinking
and behavior.

● Substance-induced psychosis typically occurs during or shortly after drug use and may
subside as the drug's effects wear off. However, repeated drug use can lead to more
persistent and severe psychiatric issues, such as schizophrenia or other psychotic
disorders.

● Individuals in this category often require immediate medical and psychiatric attention to
manage their acute symptoms and address any underlying mental health concerns.

• Depressants
— Reducing functional or nervous activity.

CNS Depressants can be divided into three main groups:

Barbiturates — which are used to treat some forms of epilepsy.

eg. Downers, Barbs, Blue drills, Red Devils, Yellowjackets, Nembutal, Seconal, Amytal,
Tuinaslsd

Tranquilizers — which can be used to treat severe stress, panic attacks, convulsions and sleep
disorders.

Benzodiazepines are depressants that produce sedation and hypnosis, relieve anxiety and
muscle spasms, and reduce seizures.

eg. Valium, Xanax, Librium, Equanil, Miltown, Serax, Tranxene

 Sleep Medication or Methaqualone — (Ambien, Sonata, Luneta) which, as the name suggests,
are used to help people with diagnosed sleep problems.

Methaqualone is a sedative that increases the activity of the GABA receptors in the brain and nervous
system, similarly to benzodiazepines and barbiturates. When GABA activity is increased, blood pressure
drops and breathing and pulse rates slow, leading to a state of deep relaxation.

eg. Quaaludes, Ludes, Soppers, Mandrakes

While there is a common misunderstanding, depressants do not mean that they make you emotionally
depressed. Instead, depressants refer to a class of drugs that inhibit or depress the central nervous
system (CNS), which means that a depressant impairs and slows the activity of the brain and nervous
system.

EXAMPLES: Alcohol is technically classified as a depressant because it slows, or depresses, basic

functions such as speech, reactions, and movement. It also affects brain function and neural
activity, impairing the ability to think clearly, altering perceptions of one's immediate
surroundings, and distorting issues of judgement.

“Does taking depressants make you emotionally depressed?”

Signs and Symptoms of a Depressant Drug Abuser (Barbiturates, Tranquilizers) or "Downers"

a. Signs of alcoholic intoxication present but no alcoholic breath

b. Staggering or stumbling gait

c. Falling asleep unexplainably

d. Drowsiness and appears disoriented

e. Lack of interest in any activities

f. Difficulty of concentration

g. Vital signs are all down or decreased (heartbeat, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood
pressure).

h. Pupils dilated

i. Large doses can produce respiratory depression, slurring of speech, and altered perception.

j. A combination of depressant drugs and alcohol can potentiate the effects thereby, multiplying
the risk.

k. Babies born of depressant drug-dependent mothers may produce mental and physical defects.
E. Hallucinogens
Hallucinogens – A drug that causes hallucinations, or profound distortions in the person's
perceptions of reality.

Hallucinogens are a diverse group of drugs that alter perception, thoughts, and feelings. They
cause hallucinations, or sensations and images that seem real, but they are not.

Hallucinogens are a large and diverse class of psychoactive drugs that can produce altered states
of consciousness characterized by major alterations in thought, mood, and perception as well as
other changes. Most hallucinogens can be categorized as either being psychedelics, dissociative,
or deliriants.

hallucinogen, substance that produces psychological effects that tend to be associated with
phenomena such as dreams or religious exaltation or with mental disorders such as
schizophrenia.

WHAT ARE THEY?

Hallucinogens coined from the word halucinations. The word "hallucination" itself was
introduced into English Language from the derivation of the Latin word "alucinari" meaning to
wander in mind.

DEFINITION

• Hallucinations are sensations that appear to be real but are created within the mind. Example
include seeing things that are not there, hearing voices or other sounds experiencing body's
sensations like crawling feeling on the skin or smelling odor that are not real.

TYPES OF HALLUCINATIONS
VISUAL HALLUCINATIONS- involves seeing things that not there. For example, you might see a
person who is not in the room or flashing lights that no one else can see.

AUDITORY HALLUCINATIONS- are among the most common type of hallucinations. You might
hear speaking to you or telling you to do certain things.

OLFACTORY HALLUCINATION: involves your sense of smell. You might smell an unpleasant odor
when waking up in the middle of the night or feel that your body smells bad when it doesn't.

TACTILE HALLUCINATIONS- involve the feeling of touch or movement in your body. For example,
you might feel that bugs are crawling on your skin or that your internal organs are moving
around. You might also feel the imagined touch of someone's hand in your body.

Therefore, hallucinogens are a class of drugs that cause hallucinations or they are psychoactive agents
which can cause hallucination, perceptual anomalies and other substantial subjective changes in
thoughts, emotions and consciousness. These drugs disrupt the production of serotonin and cause
distinct changes in the way the brain processes sensory emotion.
LSD (d-Iysergic acid diethylamide) is one of the most powerful mood changing chemicals. It is a clear
white odorless material made from lysergic acid, which is found in ergot (Claviceps Purpurea) which is a
fungus the grows on rye and other grains. Other names of LSD are Acid, Blotter, Dots and Yellow
Sunshine.

eg. LSD, Acid, Green or Red dragon, White lightning, Blue heaven, Sugar cub

Phencyclidine - PCP, Angel dust, Hog, Loveboat, Killer weed, Lovely, Cyclone, Dead on Arrival (DOA)

Mescaline and Peyote-Mesc, Buttons, Cactus

Psilocybin - Magic mushroom, Mushrooms

Signs and Symptoms of LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)

a. Users usually sitting or reclining quietly in a dream-like state

b. Users may become fearful and experience a degree of terror that makes attempt to escape f
from the group.

c. Altered senses of sight, hearing and touch as well as distorted images

d. Erratic mood and behavior

e. Users may have unpredictable flashback episodes.

f. Because the drug blocks the pain receptors of the brain, violent episodes of self-inflicted
injuries may result.

g. Persistent memory problem and speech difficulties are always present.

h. In large doses, may produce convulsion, coma and death.

E. Narcotics
The term narcotic originally referred medically to any psychoactive compound with numbing or
paralyzing properties. In the United States, it has since become associated with opiates and
opioids, commonly morphine and heroin, as well as derivatives of many of the compounds found
within raw opium latex

A drug or other substance that affects mood or behavior and is consumed for nonmedical
purposes, especially one sold illegally.

Narcotics are defined here as drugs that act pharmacologically like morphine, a constituent of
opium, meaning that they bind to one or more opioid receptor subtypes and change the psychic
and physical status of a person—reduce pain (analgesia), induce sleep, alter mood or behavior
Heroin-Smoke, Horse, Brown sugar, Junk, Mud, Big H, Black tar

Methadone-Dolly, Dolophine, Methadose, Amidone

Morphine-Pectoral syrup, Sweet amorphous

Codeine-Empirin compound with codeine, Codeine, Codeine in cough medicines

Meperidine - Pethidine, Demerol, Mepergan

Opium-Paregoric, Dakers powder, Parapectolin

Other narcotics Percocet, Parcodon, Tussiunex, Fentanyl, Darvon, Valium, Lomotil

Signs and Symptoms of a Narcotic Abuser (Heroin, Morphine, Opium)

a. At the start, it produces a feeling of euphoria followed by drowsiness, nausea and vomiting,

b. Constricted pupils, watery and itching eyes

c. An overdose may produce slow and shallow breathing, clawney or grayish color of skin,
convulsion, coma and possibly death.

d. If user is injecting, needles and syringes, alcohol burner, matches, cotton and spoon are in
possession of the user.

e. Multiple scar or injection scar marks are present.

f. Long sleeves are preferred to cover the scar mark. in the arms of the user.

g. Inhaling heroin powder leaves traces of white powder around the nostrils.

h. Tolerance to narcotics develops rapidly.

i. Contaminated needles and syringes usually result in AIDS and other infectious diseases, such
as endocarditis and hepatitis.

Types of Abused Drugs:

Understanding the types of drugs commonly abused is crucial for effective prevention:

Hallucinogens: These drugs, such as LSD, marijuana, PCP (angel dust), mescaline, and ecstasy,
can provoke altered states of consciousness, leading to bizarre behavior and disconnection from
reality.
 Stimulants (Uppers): Stimulants like amphetamines, cocaine, and CAT (metcathinone) increase
alertness, energy, and euphoria. They are highly addictive and can have severe health
consequences.

Depressants (Downers): Depressants, including barbiturates, valium, and halycon, reduce nerve
activity and can lead to sedation and anxiety relief.

Narcotics: Narcotics like opium, heroin, codeine, and morphine are highly addictive and dangerous,
producing insensitivity and mental dullness.

Volatile Solvents or Inhalants: Inhalant abuse using substances like glue, gasoline, nail polish, and
acetone can cause intoxication and irrational behavior.

Most Commonly Abused Drugs

The leading drug of abuse remains to be Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, or “Shabu” which
comprised ninety-two percent (91.80%) of the total admission, followed by Cannabis (Marijuana)
at twenty-six percent (26.29%). Benzodiazepines is the third drug of choice, and this could be
because these are sedative medication used to address anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, including
certain COVID-19-related mental health problems. On the other hand, “LSD”, which was seen to
be an emerging drug in 2020, occupied the 11th rank this reporting year.

Most Commonly Abused Drugs

1. Methamphetamine Hydrochloride “Shabu” — (91.80%)

2. Cannabis “Marijuana” — (26.29%)

3. Benzodiazepines is the third drug of choice, and this could be because these are sedative
medication used to address anxiety, insomnia, and seizures.

The term narcotic originally referred medically to any psychoactive compound with numbing
or paralyzing properties
How drugs are taken:
a. Oral- A method where drugs are taken through the mouth. (Methadone, marijuana)

b. Injection- A method of introducing a drug into the bloodstream via a hollow hypodermic needle,
which is pierced through the skin into the body. Veins in the arms are typically used for
intravenous injections, but if these areas become too scarred and damaged, some people inject
drugs into other veins, including those of the thigh, neck, armpit or feet. (Heroin, methadone,
cocaine)

c. Sniff/Snort- A method of taking drugs by inhaling it through the nose. It may be via sniffing or
snorting. Sniffing and snorting are almost the same but the only difference is that snorting is
done by sniffing violently. (Heroin, cocaine)

d. Smoked- A method for taking substances via smoking with the use of pipes, tin foils, or glass
stems. (Heroin, marijuana)
Effects of Drug Abuse:
a. Malnutrition- Stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, are known to produce euphoric
highs that can keep users up for days at a time. They're also known to suppress a person's
appetite.

b. Infectious Diseases- May get or transmit a viral infection when they inject drugs and share
needles or other drug equipment.

c. Health and Pregnancy Risks- May cause various associated health issues, which could include
lung or heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health conditions.

d. Mental Health Issues- Stimulant drugs can make you feel depressed, anxious and paranoid.
Taking too much of a certain drug also make its level of toxicity provoke paranoia and a psychotic
episode.

e. Criminal Activities- It can be related to crime if they cause a mental or physical state conducive
to lawbreaking, lead to a perceived need that results in the motivation to steal, or result in a
decrease in access to formal mediation and a corresponding increase in predatory and
retaliatory crimes.

f. Risk to Life- As health issues arise, the danger to one’s life is inevitable. May it be physically or
mentally.

g. Financial Burden- Substances are costly, and most of the people who buy it are those people
who are generally on the lower bracket of financial status. People also prioritize it over basic
needs.

h. Economic Impact- Healthcare is used for drug abusers and major labor force are also used in this
scenario.

i. Social Impact- An impact where it may affect by encouraging others in the same society to try
this substance and it also makes a low reputation for a place/society.

Why People Turn to Drugs:

a. Curiosity- Some individuals experiment with drugs due to curiosity, often fueled by
misinformation or peer pressure.

b. Seeking Security- Drugs may provide a temporary sense of security or escape from personal,
family, school, or work-related problems.

c. Peer Pressure- The desire to fit in with a peer group (or "barkada") can lead individuals to try
drugs.
 d. Coping Mechanism- Some turn to drugs as a way to cope with emotional challenges or to
alleviate stress.

e. Boredom- A lack of productive activities or purpose can lead to drug use as a form of
entertainment.

4. IMPORTANCE OF DRUG EDUCATION

Understanding the impact of drugs is undoubtedly an invaluable strength. Knowing how drugs impact
the body, the long and short-term effects of substance abuse, and the possible risk factors involved are
all key to the prevention strategy. Research continues to provide substance abuse experts with more
material to help educate community members on the dangers of illicit substances and drug misuse. Life-
saving skills can develop from newer, evidence-based research and educational materials.

Drug education is not just for teachers or drug-free advocates and counselors. Everyone can benefit
from the knowledge obtained from addiction researchers and specialists. It can help create safe and
effective treatments as well as reduce the potential for increased substance abuse rates throughout a
community.

Lastly, drug education gives us the knowledge we need to know about, these are;

a. How drugs affect a person’s life

b. Why do people use drugs

c. The physical and mental effect of the substance

d. Ways to prevent the usage of illegal drugs

Role of CWTS Students and Parents in Drug Abuse Prevention:

Civil Welfare Training Service students can assist parents in several ways:

➢ Create a warm and open atmosphere at home.

➢ Help parents improve communication with their children.

➢ Encourage parents to understand and accept their children.

➢ Motivate parents to strengthen their children's moral and spiritual values.

➢ Assist parents in teaching responsibility to their children.

Conclusion:
Drug education is a must have knowledge for everyone. Drug dependence is a complex issue that affects
individuals and communities alike. Legislation like RA 9165 aims to address the problem by imposing
penalties for drug-related offenses while also providing mechanisms for treatment and rehabilitation.
Understanding the nature of drug abuse, its consequences, and the importance of prevention and
rehabilitation is essential for everyone. Raising awareness, offering support, and implementing
comprehensive policies are crucial steps in safeguarding the well-being of society, particularly the
vulnerable youth.