What are the Risks?
The following information describes some of the health risks & consequences associated with use, misuse and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. For more extensive information, contact Prevention and Education Services, at (845) 848-4030.
Alcohol
Addiction, liver disease, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects, pneumonia, cancer of the respiratory and digestive tracts, heart and artery disease, deaths and injuries due to accidents.
Cocaine
Addiction, heart seizures, lung damage, severe depression, paranoia, and anxiety.
Marijuana
Addiction, short term memory loss, paranoia, increased heart rate, lung cancer, affects respiratory and reproductive systems, and suppresses immune system.
Stimulants
Addiction, paranoia, depression, confusion, possible hallucinations, weight loss, dehydration, low resistance to disease, and psychiatric problems.
Narcotics (heroin, oxycontin)
Addiction, lethargy, weight loss, depressed central nervous system, heart and lung abnormalities, hepatitis infection, HIV infection, risk of overdose and death.
Inhalants
Lack of coordination, unconsciousness, suffocation, nausea and vomiting, damage to brain and central nervous system, respiratory depression and brain damage.
Steroids
Liver toxicity and cancer, increased blood pressure, baldness, skin problems, arteriosclerosis, insomnia, loss of elasticity in tendons and ligaments, shrinkage and discoloration of testicles, decreased sperm count, fluid retention, pore enlargement, general masculinization in women and impotence and enlargement of breasts in men.
Analog/Designer/Club Drugs (LSD, GHB, Ecstasy/MDMA)
Dependence, unpredictable behavior, flashbacks, psychosis, affects heart rate and respiratory systems, dehydration and marked increase in body temperature, hypertension and heart or kidney failure, depression, anxiety and paranoia, memory impairment.
Depressants (barbiturates)
Addiction, muscle rigidity, sleep disturbances’ overdose and death (especially if combined with alcohol).