At Integrity Sampling, our primary focus is on the impact of illegal drug use in the workplace. However, we also recognise the broader harm these substances cause in homes, communities and society as a whole. Illegal drug use is a serious issue that extends far beyond the workplace, affecting individuals and public safety in many ways.
Why is the impact of illegal drug use so significant, not just in Australia but right across the globe? One primary reason is the effects of these substances, which can be unpredictable due to factors such as strength, purity, dosage and method of consumption. In addition, individual factors such as health and even mood can play a part.
Whether you’re an individual, a community organisation or an employer who wants to understand more about illegal drugs, this post will look at some of the most used illegal drugs and their effects. We’ll examine not just the immediate and long-term impact, but also the way these drugs can affect mental and physical health, cognitive abilities and physical safety.
Cannabis
Cannabis is a depressant drug, like alcohol, that slows down the central nervous system. It also has mild hallucinogenic properties.
Immediate effects:
- Feeling relaxed and less inhibited
- Increased appetite
- Altered perception
- Reduced coordination
- Impaired thought process and memory
- Confusion
Long-term effects:
- Increased risk of respiratory illness
- Reduced motivation
- Impaired brain function, affecting memory and learning
- Potential for psychosis in vulnerable individuals
Methamphetamines
Methamphetamines are stimulants that increase the speed of messages between the brain and body. They have similar effects as amphetamines (which include prescription medications that can also be abused) but can be more potent and dangerous.
Immediate effects:
- Increased heart rate, breathing and blood pressure
- Greater energy and alertness
- Loss of appetite
- Increased irritability
- Risk of overdose leading to death
Long-term effects:
- Malnutrition due to suppressed appetite
- Increased risk of psychosis
- Weakened immune system, making infection more likely
- Dependency on other drugs to manage effects
- Increased likelihood of violent behavior
- Risk of hepatitis or HIV from shared needles
Ecstasy (MDMA)
Ecstasy also has hallucinogenic effects. Users often experience a severe “come down” after use, leading to depression, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Illegal drugs sold as ecstasy or MDMA may contain a mix of substances, including amphetamines and ketamine, increasing the risks.
Immediate effects:
- Increased feelings of wellbeing and confidence
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Suppressed appetite
- Hallucinations
- Insomnia
- Risk of kidney failure, convulsions and vomiting
Long-term effects:
- Increased risk of heart attacks and brain hemorrhages
- Overheating (hyperthermia), which can be fatal
- Risk of drinking excessive water, leading to dilutional hyponatremia, a potentially fatal condition
- Increased risk of developing psychosis
Cocaine
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that speeds up the activity of the central nervous system.
Immediate effects:
- Increased body temperature and heart rate
- Feelings of exhilaration and heightened wellbeing
- Poor judgment and concentration
- Unpredictable or violent behavior
- Hallucinations and tremors
- Risk of heart attack leading to death
Long-term effects:
- Psychosis and paranoia
- Significant weight loss
- Hallucinations
- Chronic depression
- Frequent nausea and gastrointestinal issues
Heroin
Heroin belongs to a group of drugs called opioids, which also includes morphine and codeine. It is a powerful depressant with high potential for addiction.
Immediate effects:
- Intense feelings of pleasure and pain relief
- Slower breathing, pulse, and blood pressure
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Risk of overdose and death
Long-term effects:
- Severe psychological and physical dependence
- Malnutrition due to poor self-care
- High risk of infections, including hepatitis and HIV from needle sharing
- Risk of fatal overdose
The workplace impact
For workplaces, illegal drug use poses a significant risk. Impaired employees may experience reduced productivity, increased accidents and pose a significant risk to themselves and others. Employers – particularly those in safety-sensitive industries – must stay vigilant and implement drug and alcohol testing policies to ensure a safe and effective work environment.
At Integrity Sampling, we specialise in workplace drug and alcohol testing to help businesses maintain safety and compliance. By understanding the effects of illegal drugs, workplaces can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and support employee wellbeing.
For more information on workplace drug and alcohol testing, contact Integrity Sampling today.
NOTE:
Is it possible to look for the effects of drugs and know which of your employees are coming to work under the influence? Absolutely not. While the effects listed above may provide an indication, they are far from conclusive. Workplace drug testing is the only way to know for sure if someone is under the influence of a drug.
SOURCE:
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s website and its section on Drug Facts is a great resource to find out more about the effects of a wide range of illegal and legal drugs.
FEATURED IMAGE CAPTION:
If you’re an employer who wants to understand the potential impact of illegal drugs on their business, knowing more about the effects of drugs is important.
