Hallucinogens, such as LSD and PCP, cause significant distortion in perception and thinking which contribute to injury and risky behaviors. Intense and often unpredictable emotional reactions can trigger panic attacks or psychotic reactions. Use can exacerbate existing mental health problems. Some hallucinogens may cause heart or lung failure. Inhalants can cause nausea, headaches, irregular heartbeat, and damage to lungs, bone marrow, kidneys, and liver.
Sudden death can occur because of brain and heart damage.
Narcotics, such as heroin, codeine, and morphine, are highly addictive. Use leads to loss of appetite, extreme drowsiness, impairment of mental processes, and slowing of reflexes. Overdose may lead to convulsions, coma, or death. Steroid use is associated with liver disease, cancer, growth problems, bone fusion, sexual and reproductive system dysfunction, acne, and psychological problems, especially problems related to anger control. The Viterbo University Student Development Center coordinates campus alcohol and other drug services in the areas of prevention, education, intervention, initial counseling, and referral.