1g. Short- and Long-Term Effects of Substance Use on the Brain
Different substances have different short- and long-term effects on the brain. Click or tap the boxes to learn more about these effects.
Opioids
Examples of opioids:
- Heroin
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Fentanyl
Short-term effects
Relaxation, numbness to emotional or physical pain, drowsiness, constipation, slow breathing, and possible death.
Long-term effects
Highly addictive. As tolerance increases, you need more to get to the feeling you want. Withdrawals can be long and painful. Taking opioids with alcohol and other drugs can cause the lungs to fail and result in death.
Central nervous system (CNS) depressants
Examples of CNS Depressants:
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Ativan)
- Barbiturates (Secobarbital, Pentobarbital, Amytal)
- Certain sleep medicines (Ambien, Sonata, Lunesta)
Short-term effects
Normal brain functions slow down, a drowsy feeling, but over time the effects fade as the body builds tolerance.
Long-term effects
Addiction can result, withdrawal can be painful, and the substance may cause seizures and death. Mixing depressants with alcohol or other drugs can kill you.
Stimulants
Examples of Stimulants:
- Cocaine
- Amphetamine
- Methamphetamine
- ADHD Medications (Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta)
Short-term effects
Alertness, focus, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, increased blood
Long-term effects
Addiction, paranoia and long-term insomnia, extreme weight changes.