Your Recovery,
Your Way
What are Stimulant Drugs?
Stimulants are a class of drugs that increase signals in the brain. A stimulant can increase confidence, energy, and calmness. Large doses of a stimulant can lead to anxiety, panic attacks, seizures, and headaches. Using stimulants for longer periods can have negative health consequences.
While caffeine is a relatively safe stimulant, other stimulants used by students, athletes, and recreational users can pose a significant health threat. Illicit stimulants such as cocaine are usually snorted, swallowed, smoked, or injected. Prescribed stimulants are usually taken orally, and the duration of their effects differs depending on the type.
Prescription Stimulants
Prescription stimulants are medications generally used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy—uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep. They increase energy, alertness, and attention. Prescription stimulants work by enhancing the effects of dopamine and norepinephrine and can lead to increased respiratory function, blood pressure, and euphoria.
Drugs like amphetamine have become one of the most commonly used prescription stimulants. They can also be considered illicit drugs if taken inappropriately. These medications include Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta.
Prescription stimulants can be used for treating a person who has ADHD or has difficulties controlling impulses. The CDC reports 11 percent of adolescents between 18-29 had ADHD diagnosed by 2010. While prescribed stimulant medications may be helpful to those with ADHD, they are often used by college students with no condition in order to improve focus and cognitive function.
Short-Term Effects of Stimulants
The short-term effects include:
After the euphoria wears off, people experience exhaustion, depression, and apathy — the “down” that follows the “up.”
Long Term Effects of Stimulants
Using stimulants long term can lead to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, such as:
Withdrawal symptoms can last one to three days and sometimes include drug craving and disturbed sleep.
Types of Stimulants
Caffeine
Common stimulant acting by inhibiting adenosine receptors.
Nicotine
Naturally occurring alkaloid used recreationally and in smoking cessation.
Methamphetamine
Highly addictive stimulant, often smoked or injected.
Cocaine
Illegal stimulant absorbed quickly into the bloodstream.
What are Stimulants Prescribed For?
Prescription stimulants treat disorders like narcolepsy and ADHD. The most common include Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexedrine.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
For someone with ADHD, stimulants increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Short-acting forms are taken multiple times a day; long-acting forms once daily.
What We Treat
Designer Drugs
Drug abuse continues to be a serious problem in the U.S. According to data from the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), among the 40.3 million Americans diagnosed with substance use disorder, 18.4 million people were illicit drug users. One of the factors that are opening the gateway for addiction, particularly among the younger crowd, are designer drugs. Over the past decade, these substances have become some of the most widespread drugs of abuse in the U.S.
What Are Designer Drugs?
Designer drugs are laboratory-made substances that were specifically developed to mimic the effects of cannabis, cocaine, and other illegal drugs. They are typically produced in secret and unlicensed laboratories.
First coined in the 1980s, the term “designer drug” was used to refer to any drug whose chemical makeup was slightly altered. Today, these drugs may be referred to by several other names, including:
These synthetic substances may have different chemical structures, however, their effects are largely the same or similar to the original, illegal drugs. Like the substances whose effects they try to replicate, designer drugs affect mood and the brain’s normal functions. Depending on the type of controlled substance they try to copy, these new drugs can make people feel relaxed, produce a high or euphoric state, and induce hallucinations.
Designer drugs share some general characteristics:
Are Designer Drugs Legal?
Altering the chemical composition of drugs began as an attempt to circumvent the law and make “legal” versions of prohibited drugs. This was possible because the original Controlled Substances Act listed specific drugs by name.
The Federal Analog Act later amended the law to pre-emptively ban substances with chemical structures substantially similar to illegal drugs. The U.S. has also classified all synthetic compounds similar to marijuana as illegal under Schedule I, and added other synthetic stimulants and hallucinogens to the list.
Common Designer Drugs
Some commonly encountered synthetic or designer drugs include:
Different Types of Synthetic Drugs
Designer drugs are often grouped based on what illicit substances they imitate:
Synthetic Cannabinoids
These mimic cannabis effects (e.g., Spice, K2), producing relaxation and euphoria but can also cause rapid heart rate, hallucinations, and confusion.
Synthetic Cathinones or Stimulants
Often called bath salts, these are stimulant substitutes with drug names like vanilla sky or flakka and can cause heart attack, panic, and hallucinations.
Synthetic Opioids
Lab-made opioids such as fentanyl are potent and dangerous, often used as cutting agents in illegal drugs and have a high potential for fatal overdose.
Synthetic Hallucinogens
Lab-made hallucinogens (e.g., certain 2C compounds) produce effects similar to natural psychedelic drugs but can also cause severe confusion and psychosis.
The Dangers of Designer Drugs
Designer drugs pose risks due to:
- Inconsistent formulation and potency
- Lack of regulatory oversighty
- Limited accurate testing methods for detection
Seeking Help for Designer Drug Addiction at Care Plus
Many youth believe designer drugs are harmless, but even one use can lead to addiction. Continued use increases risk of substance use disorder. If you or someone you care about shows signs of drug addiction, seek professional intervention or addiction treatment. Care Plus offers treatment and recovery services to help people recover from addictions.
What are Narcotic Analgesics?
Narcotic analgesics are drugs that reduce pain. There are two types of narcotic analgesics: opiates and non-opiates. Opiates work by binding to receptors in the brain called opioid receptors. When activated, these receptors create a sensation of euphoria or well-being,
which reduces the perception of pain and provides relief from emotional distress. Non-opiates work by binding to receptors in the brain called acetylcholine receptors, which block signals from nerve endings to the brain and help reduce inflammation and pain.
Narcotic analgesics come in various forms including pills (tablets), capsules (soft gelatin capsules), and suppositories (rectal inserts).
What are Opioid Analgesics?
Opioid analgesics are medications that reduce pain by acting on opioid receptors in the brain. The word “analgesic” means pain reliever. Opioid analgesics interfere with nerve messages to the brain about pain, reducing or eliminating both physical and emotional pain.
What are the Differences between Some Narcotic Analgesics?
Narcotic analgesics differ in how they are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted. Some natural morphines originate from animals. Other medications such as heroin, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone are semi-synthetic morphine derivatives. There are three major opioid groups: those structurally like morphine, those resembling fentanyl, and those resembling methadone.
What are Narcotic Analgesic Drugs Prescribed For?
Narcotic analgesics are prescribed for chronic pain relief and for conditions such as:
Different narcotic analgesics work better for different conditions, but most carry a risk of developing drug dependence.
How Do Narcotic Analgesics Work in the Body?
Narcotics work by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which reduces the perception of pain. These drugs can be synthetic or semi-synthetic.
Opioid Receptors
Narcotic analgesics bind to mu, kappa, and delta opioid receptors. While this produces pain-relieving effects, it can also cause severe side effects such as sedation, respiratory depression, constipation, euphoria, and physical dependence.
Side Effects of Narcotic Analgesics
Like all drugs, narcotic analgesics can cause side effects, especially at high doses. They should be taken only as prescribed by a physician with close monitoring. Common adverse effects include:
Narcotic Analgesic Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal occurs when the body responds to stopping the drug. Symptoms can be severe and may include:
Are Narcotic Analgesics Considered Safe?
Not always. It is possible to develop severe respiratory depression and overdose when using opioid analgesics. Dependence can occur with repeated or prolonged use, and severe opioid abuse disorders can affect individuals from all backgrounds.
Can Narcotic Analgesics Be Addictive?
Yes — narcotic analgesics have a high potential for drug abuse. They can produce a feeling of “high,” and once dependence develops, cravings become common. When taken in high doses or improperly, these drugs can be abused and lead to addiction.
Examples of Narcotic Analgesics
Morphine
Powerful opioid used for severe pain; slow breathing and nausea are possible side effects.
Dilaudid
Semi-synthetic opioid similar to morphine, used to treat moderate to severe pain.
Actiq
Strong opioid for short-term relief of severe pain, especially in cancer patients.
OxyContin
Opioid medication for chronic pain; effects usually last 4–6 hours.
Addiction Treatment at Care Plus New Jersey
Care Plus New Jersey offers programs designed to support individuals struggling with addiction and co-occurring disorders. These programs provide wraparound support including medication monitoring and therapeutic care from a multidisciplinary team (physicians, psychiatrists, nursing staff, and licensed clinicians).
What are Hallucinogens?
Hallucinogens are drugs that cause hallucinations. They can be natural or man-made. The term hallucinogen refers to many different drugs, which are often called “psychedelic” drugs. Hallucinations are sensory perceptions in the absence of external stimuli — such as sights, sounds, or other sensations that feel real but aren’t present. Hallucinogens can produce altered states of consciousness, sensory distortions, dissociation, and intense mood changes.
Psychedelic Drugs
Psychedelics are a broad class of hallucinogens that alter perception and cognition, typically by acting on serotonin receptors in the brain. They are classified into three types:
psychedelics, dissociatives, and deliriants. Examples include LSD, DMT, mescaline, MDMA (ecstasy), and psilocybin mushrooms.
Are Narcotic Analgesics Considered Safe?
Not always. It is possible to develop severe respiratory depression and overdose when using opioid analgesics. Dependence can occur with repeated or prolonged use, and severe opioid abuse disorders can affect individuals from all backgrounds.
Can Narcotic Analgesics Be Addictive?
Yes — narcotic analgesics have a high potential for drug abuse. They can produce a feeling of “high,” and once dependence develops, cravings become common. When taken in high doses or improperly, these drugs can be abused and lead to addiction.
Types of Hallucinogens
Classic Hallucinogens
These substances cause perception-altering effects by acting on brain circuits that use serotonin. Examples include:
Psilocybin
A naturally occurring psychedelic found in certain mushrooms that can cause relaxation, nervousness, paranoia, panic, and spiritual experiences.
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD)
A powerful psychedelic that alters reality perception and is sometimes used recreationally or in experimental contexts.
Dissociative Drugs
Dissociatives make users feel detached from their body and surroundings. Examples include:
Ketamine
Used medically as an anesthetic in humans and animals; recreational use involves dissociative effects.
PCP (Phencyclidine)
Originally developed as an anesthetic, often sold as powder or liquid and known for strong dissociative experiences.
What are Opiates?
Opiates are natural “opioids” and chemical compounds that are refined and extracted from poppy plants. They are naturally derived from the poppy seeds or fibers. The most common opiates are heroin, morphine, and codeine. The term “synthetic opioid” refers to opioids made in a lab. Opiates are naturally occurring, whereas most opioids are manufactured.
What are Opioids?
Opioids are chemical compounds that are generally not derived from natural plant matter. Many opioids—such as hydromorphone (Dilaudid), oxycodone (e.g., Percocet, OxyContin), and hydrocodone (e.g., Vicodin)—may be partially synthesized from opium or created entirely in laboratories..
Opiates Versus Opioids?
The main difference between opiates and opioids is how they are made. Both can be prescribed for pain relief, cough or diarrhea suppression, anesthesia, and treatment of opioid use disorder, but both can also be misused and lead to substance abuse or addiction.
Types of Opiates
The most common opiates include:
Types of Opioids
Many opioid pain relievers that may be prescribed for moderate to severe pain include:
What are Prescription Opioids?
Prescription opioid analgesics are medications used to treat moderate to severe chronic pain. Examples include OxyContin, Vicodin, and fentanyl, which is significantly more potent than morphine.
What are Opioid Receptors?
Opioid receptors are located in the nervous system. When opioids bind to these receptors, they trigger chemical changes that lead to feelings of pleasure and pain relief.
Can You Overdose on Opiates?
Yes — a fatal overdose is possible. Many opioid-involved overdose deaths involve synthetic opioids. Signs of overdose include extreme sleepiness or inability to wake up, cool clammy skin, constricted pupils, nausea or vomiting, confusion, and shallow breathing.
What are Opiates and Opioids Prescribed For?
Prescription opioids are commonly used after injury or surgery, for certain health conditions (like cancer), and for chronic pain such as osteoarthritis or back pain, despite the risks.
Opiate and Opioid Addiction
Opioid pain relievers are safe when taken as prescribed for short periods but can be misused, leading to opioid abuse or opioid use disorder.
Opiate Use and Abuse in the United States
Hydrocodone is one of the most widely used opioids, and millions of Americans use oxycodone annually. Some individuals turn to cheaper or easier-to-obtain drugs like heroin.
Withdrawal from Opioids
Signs of withdrawal can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, anxiety, fever, racing heart, muscle and bone pain, sweating, chills, and high blood pressure. Although uncomfortable, withdrawal itself is generally not fatal.
Addiction Treatment at Care Plus New Jersey
Care Plus NJ offers behavioral health and addiction treatment services, including medication-assisted treatment and outpatient detox programs for opioid use disorders. Treatment planning ranges from early intervention to outpatient withdrawal management with ongoing support.
What are Depressants?
Central nervous system (CNS) depressants are medications that slow down activity in the brain and nervous system. They include tranquilizers, sedatives, and hypnotics. Depressant drugs work by decreasing brain activity, which can calm nerves, relieve anxiety, help with sleep problems, or manage panic disorders.
Types of Depressants
Alcohol
Alcohol is a widely used depressant. Although legal, heavy use or binge drinking can lead to substance use disorder and serious health risks.
Benzodiazepines
These are prescription CNS depressants used to treat conditions like anxiety and sleep disorders. Examples include:
Barbiturates
Barbiturates are older sedative depressants once used more commonly for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They have a high potential for addiction and overdose and are used less often today due to safety concerns.
Effects of Depressants
Short-Term Effects
CNS depressants can cause:
Higher Doses May Cause:
Withdrawal occurs when the body responds to stopping the drug. Symptoms can be severe and may include:
How Do Depressants Affect the Central Nervous System?
Depressants enhance the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a chemical in the brain that decreases neural activity. As a result, brain signals slow down, muscles relax, and the body enters a calmer state — but this can also slow heart rate and breathing.
Summary
Depressants are drugs that slow down the central nervous system and brain activity. They are used medically for anxiety, insomnia, and stress-related disorders but can be dangerous when misused — leading to impaired judgment, addiction, respiratory depression, or overdose.
What is a Prescription Drug?
Prescription drugs are medications that require a prescription or authorization from a licensed medical professional. This means these medications are not available over the counter and must be obtained through a doctor, dentist, nurse practitioner, or other authorized healthcare provider. Doctors typically conduct a physical exam before prescribing prescription drugs.
There are many different types of prescription drugs, including antibiotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines. These medicines are used to treat a variety of medical conditions such as allergies and depression.
What are Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs?
Opioid analgesics are medications that reduce pain by acting on opioid receptors in the brain. The word “analgesic” means pain reliever. Opioid analgesics interfere with nerve messages to the brain about pain, reducing or eliminating both physical and emotional pain.
Types of Prescription Medication
Opioids
Opioids are a class of drugs that bind to opioid receptors in the body and brain and produce effects similar to morphine-like pain relief. They are used for pain relief, cough suppression, managing withdrawal symptoms, and sometimes recreationally. Opioids are
among the most commonly prescribed medications and also among the most addictive substances.
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants
CNS depressants are medications that decrease activity in the central nervous system. They are typically prescribed for conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain. Some types, like benzodiazepines, also have anticonvulsant properties and may be prescribed for seizures. CNS depressants can be addictive if used long-term or at high doses.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the central nervous system. They can be found in both medications and common substances like coffee, tea, tobacco, chocolate, and some prescription medications. Stimulant drugs are often abused because they produce feelings of increased energy and euphoria. Common examples include amphetamines, cocaine, caffeine, nicotine, and methamphetamine.
Prescription Drug Misuse
Prescription drug misuse is a growing epidemic in the United States. It’s estimated that over 3,000 people die each year from prescription drug overdoses. Misuse includes obtaining prescription drugs from non-pharmacy sources or using them for non-medical purposes, such as trying to get “high” rather than for their intended treatment.
Misuse can lead to addiction, especially when medications like opioids are used without medical supervision. Mixing prescription drugs with alcohol or other drugs can be dangerous. Pharmacists can advise what drugs are safe to take together. The most common type of prescription drug abuse involves opioids used for non-medical purposes.
Dangerous Drug Interactions
More than half of the U.S. population uses at least one prescription drug, and around 10 % use three or more. Interactions between different drugs can be dangerous, and it’s often hard to predict how combinations might react.
Can You Overdose While Using Prescription Drugs?
Yes — overdose is a risk with controlled substances. The rate of overdose deaths has shifted over time, and increased use of fentanyl and other potent prescription drugs has contributed significantly to overdose fatalities.
Addiction Treatment at Care Plus New Jersey
Care Plus NJ uses a strength-based, client-focused approach to addiction treatment that integrates evidence-based clinical practices with peer support and wraparound services designed for wellness and recovery. Services may include: