Which drugs count as drugs?

Medication can become drugs if taken incorrectly or improperly, the use of which can be extremely problematic. The following overview categorically lists known medications and assesses the risk of dependence:

Opioid painkillers

Medication: Oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl
Category: These drugs are opioids that can relieve pain but also create a feeling of euphoria.
Drug reference: Opioid painkillers are highly addictive and are often abused to ignite their euphoric effects.
Dependency potential: Very high

Benzodiazepines:

Medication: Diazepam (Valium), Alprazolam (Xanax), Lorazepam (Ativan)
Category: Sedatives and anti-anxiety medications.
Drug reference: Benzodiazepines can have a calming effect and produce a feeling of intoxication in higher doses.
Dependency potential: High, especially during prolonged use

Amphetamines:

Medication: Adderall, Ritalin
Category: Central nervous system stimulants for the treatment of ADHD.
Drug reference: Abuse leads to increased alertness and energy, but also to dependence.
Dependency potential: High

Cannabis:

Medication: THC-containing medications (e.g. Marinol)
Category: These drugs contain synthetic THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.
Drug reference: THC can cause intoxication and cause problems if abused.
Dependency potential: Moderate

Stimulants:

Medication: Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Category: Central nervous system stimulants for the treatment of ADHD.
Drug reference: They can cause increased alertness, energy and concentration.
Dependency potential: High

Z-Drugs / Sleeping Aids:

Medication: Zolpidem (Ambien), Eszopiclone (Lunesta)
Category: These drugs are used to treat sleep disorders and anxiety.
Drug reference: Z-drugs can have sedative and relaxing effects, which are abused by some people to achieve intoxication.
Dependency potential: High, especially during prolonged use

Barbiturates:

Medication: Phenobarbital
Category: A former sleeping pill and sedative that is rarely used today.
Drug reference: Barbiturates have strong sedative effects and have often been abused in the past.
Dependency potential: High

Antihistamines:

Medication: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Doxylamine (Unisom)
Category: These are originally developed to treat allergies, but can also be used as sleep aids.
Drug reference: In higher doses, antihistamines can have sedative effects and can be abused.
Dependency potential: Low to moderate

The proper use of these drugs under medical supervision is usually safe and effective. However, drug abuse can cause serious health problems and dependence. Regular abuse of sleeping pills can also cause serious health problems, including dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.

Simultaneous consumption of medication and alcohol

The simultaneous consumption of medication and alcohol can be very dangerous, especially if the medication is misused. The combination of medication and alcohol can lead to serious interactions and health risks:

Enhancement of the sedative effect: Both alcohol and many medications, especially sleeping pills, benzodiazepines and some painkillers, have sedative (sedative) effects. When combined, the sedative effect can be significantly enhanced, which can lead to excessive drowsiness, respiratory depression, and loss of consciousness.

Increased toxicity and damage: Alcohol can increase the toxic effect of medications on the liver and kidneys because the liver has to process both alcohol and medication. This can lead to liver damage and other serious health problems.

Altered effect of the medication: Alcohol can affect the effect of medications, making them less effective or even more dangerous. This can lead to medication not working as prescribed and thus putting health at an additional risk.

Increased addiction potential: The joint abuse of medication and alcohol can increase the addiction potential of both substances and increase the likelihood of addiction and abuse.