Drug tolerance and psychological dependence can develop after sustained use of drugs. More specifically, physical dependency, heart problems, infections, malnutrition, and death may result from continued high doses of amphetamines. Chronic use of narcotics can cause lung damage, convulsions, respiratory paralysis and death. Depressants, such as tranquilizers and alcohol, can produce slowed reactions, slowed heart rate, damage to liver and heart, respiratory arrest, convulsions, and accidental overdoses, because the abuser is unaware of how much of the drug or alcohol has been taken. Use of hallucinogens may cause psychosis, convulsions, coma and psychological dependency.
Alcoholism is the number one drug problem in the United States.
Alcoholism takes a toll on personal lives by affecting finances, health, social relationships, and families. It can have significant legal consequences. Abuse of alcohol or use of drugs may cause an individual driving a motor vehicle to injure others and may subject the abuser to criminal prosecution. Drunk drivers are responsible for more than half of all traffic fatalities. The University of Kansas Medical Center recognizes that student or employee members of its community can face personal problems related to alcohol abuse or drug use.