Addiction | 4 min read

User Beware: Being High On Drugs Is More Dangerous Than You May Have Thought

Medically Reviewed

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Po-Chang Hsu

Dr. Po-Chang Hsu

On August 28, 2022

Written By

Amanda Stevens

Amanda Stevens, B.S.

On December 2, 2021

High On Drugs Is More Dangerous Than You May Have Thought
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Many people mistakenly believe prescription drugs are “safe” to abuse because they aren’t illegal. However, being high on drugs is much more dangerous than you might have thought! Prescription drugs can help you manage certain conditions when your dosage is monitored. But, when abused, that isn’t going to be the case.

Prescription drugs impact the brain similarly to illegal drugs. The high feeling comes from that impact on the brain, which may differ depending on the drug. Although, the feeling can be very similar- making prescription drugs just as addictive as street drugs.

Many people seek out drugs for the feeling of being high. But, over time, you’ll need more and more of a substance to continue reaching that same high. Soon, you’ll take way too much- which could easily lead to an overdose. The effects are worsened when you’re taking drugs with alcohol as well.

Overall, being high on drugs is very dangerous- usually a lot more dangerous than you might expect. No matter what you’re taking, your cognition will be impaired. That could lead to bad decision-making and even harm from it. You should deal with any addictions you might have now to nip them in the bud.

Risks and Side-Effects of Being High on Drugs

There are many types of risks when it comes to being high on drugs. It depends on what you happen to be taking. For instance, marijuana and cocaine will have vastly different side effects and risks.

Drug addiction often starts with recreational drugs. Even if you’re trying it out, it can be easy to become addicted. Some drugs are much more addictive than others. If you have to rely on a substance to get you through the day, you’re addicted to it.

These are the symptoms of being addicted to drugs that you’ll want to know:

  • Feeling like you need to use the drug often
  • Having a strong need for the drug that overpowers everything
  • Keeping a supply of the drug
  • Spending money on the drug, even when you don’t have enough money
  • Continuing use even when you recognize it’s damaging your life and relationships
  • Failing to stop the use of the drug
  • Having withdrawal symptoms

Risks and Side-Effects of Being High on Drugs

As for the risks, many different types of drugs can lead to overdose, which could be fatal. Additionally, you might experience memory loss, increased heart rates, high blood pressure, and other health issues when taking drugs.

There’s also the risk of infection. For instance, infection is possible when snorting or injecting your body with a substance. This is especially true when you use items that belong to others. If not treated, any infection could become fatal.

Withdrawal Process When Addicted to Being High on Drugs

Withdrawal symptoms are a huge health problem, so you want to make sure you withdraw while being monitored by a professional team. The symptoms can be extremely dangerous. For example, many abused drugs can lead to seizures during withdrawal. If you’re shaking and have tremors in your body, it’s essential that you visit your local hospital.

However, not all drugs will have that type of side effect. Most substances will lead to the following symptoms:

  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • No appetite
  • Restlessness

You’ll also have a constant craving for the drug. With many substances, the need to take the drug can overpower everything else in your life. It takes center stage- making it very hard to think about anything else. That’s why it’s so essential that you take the time to see a professional. They’re familiar with addiction and can determine the best ways to help you through the hardest of the withdrawal phases.

Additionally, some people are more genetically inclined to experience addiction. Some people can use a drug once at a party and never crave it again. However, the opposite can be true for others; one time is all it takes.

You’ll need to know what the signs of an overdose are. They include all of the following:

  • Hypothermia or fever
  • Passing out and not responding to others
  • Changes in skin color
  • Trouble breathing
  • A change in their pulse

Withdrawal Process When Addicted to Being High on Drugs

When taking illegal drugs, there are no doses. That means it is much easier for someone to overdose on an illegal drug when compared with a prescription one. The odds of an overdose are even higher when the drug is injected through the veins or when there is alcohol involved. Overdoses are very scary and require immediate medical attention. If you or a loved one is experiencing an overdose, you should get medical help immediately.

Overall, withdrawal symptoms cause most people to give up on getting sober. Although, if you have professional help, you’re much more likely to succeed while being safe. You might not be aware of plenty of treatment options in your area.

Treatment Options When Being High on Drugs Has Become an Addiction

When being high on drugs turns into a serious addiction, you want to make sure that you reach out to a professional group. They’ll ensure you get off the substance without the negative side effects become too overwhelming. They can also help you ease your withdrawal, so you don’t have to worry about seizures or other health issues.

You’ll want to make sure to reach out to someone when you notice you have an addiction to drugs. It can be very hard to admit, especially if you’re abusing prescription drugs. However, it’s better to meet with someone from our team instead of letting the issues go unsolved.

If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use disorder and seeking alcohol, drug, or opioid addiction treatment in New York, reach out to Ascendant today. We have all the required skills and experience to assist you- no matter what type of drug you might be addicted to. So call us today to learn more about our detox protocol so that you can start living the life you’ve always dreamed about, free from drugs.

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Amanda Stevens

MEDICAL CONTENT WRITER

Amanda Stevens, B.S.

Amanda is a prolific medical content writer specializing in eating disorders and addiction treatment. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Purdue University with a B.S. in Social Work. Read more

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Sources
  1. Ellis ME. Drug Overdose: Definition, Treatment, Prevention, and More. Healthline. Published February 25, 2020. Accessed August 28, 2022. https://www.healthline.com/health/drug-overdose