Drug abuse occurs when a person takes a drug at a dose level and under circumstances that increases potential for harmful effects. Alcohol a. Alcohol may affect action of the inhibiting transmitter GABA or glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter. Fetal alcohol syndrome is serious consequence of drinking while pregnant. Heavy alcohol diet lacks proteins and vitamins. Obtained from leaves, flowers, and stem of Cannabis sativa .
Effects depend upon strength and amount consumed, expertise, and setting.
Effects include mild euphoria, distortions of space and time, inability to concentrate and speak coherently and motor incoordination. Known as the gateway drug for use of other drugs, heavy use may lead to chronic respiratory disease, lung cancer, and possible brain impairment and reproductive dysfunctions. Cocaine a. Alkaloid derived from the shrub Erythroxylum cocoa . Prevents reuptake of dopamine by the presynaptic membrane. Highly addictive, over-dosing is a real possibility leading to cardiac and respiratory arrest.