Drugs

Why do people take drugs?

THEY are bored

THEY want to escape from problems

THEY think it is fun

The dangers of taking drugs?

Different drugs have different side effects on different people.

Most drugs are illegal and if you get a fine you could get a criminal record which could affect schooling or chances of jobs.

Remember.......... When you buy drugs you don't know what you are getting. Some drugs could be purer (stronger), mixed with other drugs, mixed with other powders i.e. washing powder and they might not be drugs at all. It is very dangerous if they are mixed because the end result could be fatal, especially when drinking alcohol at the same time.

Remember......... Drugs are addictive and life threatening

Drugs and Diabetes

Your diabetes may be influenced in a number of ways: -

Increase the risk of hypos - this maybe due to some drugs suppressing appetite as well as making you feel excited and increasing your desire to dance etc
Danger of not recognising hypos - some drugs make you confused and not with it and therefore you may be unable to detect a hypo before it becomes serious
Some drugs (cannabis for example) can make you feel hungry and you eat a lot of extra food
Drugs such as LSD (acid) can last up to 12 hours and you may forget to take your insulin this can lead to serious consequences

It is important for you to have an exciting and enjoyable social life, to enjoy clubs, dancing and socialising. Whether you have diabetes or not it is best NOT to take drugs.

Types of drugs

Downers - also known as depressants

These include drugs such as alcohol, heroin, tranquillisers and painkillers that slow the body down. They affect thought processes, heart rate and breathing.

Uppers - also known as stimulants

Drugs such as speed, ecstasy and cocaine that speed the body up, affecting speech, reaction times and heart rate. Cigarettes contain the stimulant nicotine.

Hallucinogenic

These are drugs such as cannabis, acid and magic mushrooms that alter the way people see, hear and feel things.

If you would like more information you can either contact Diabetes UK Careline on 0845 120 2960 or you can contact your Diabetes Nurse Specialist.

Disclaimer

This website is designed for use by the Leeds Paediatric Diabetes Team and children and parents referred to their service. Every effort has been made to make sure there are no errors on the website. If you think there are any inaccuracies could you please e-mail us so that we can check. kate.barker@leedsth.nhs.uk