essay about anti drug

Engineering
Write For Us
Privacy Policy

Essay on Drug Abuse

Here we have shared the Essay on Drug Abuse in detail so you can use it in your exam or assignment of 150, 250, 400, 500, or 1000 words.

You can use this Essay on Drug Abuse in any assignment or project whether you are in school (class 10th or 12th), college, or preparing for answer writing in competitive exams.

Topics covered in this article.

Essay on Drug Abuse in 150 words

Essay on drug abuse in 250-300 words, essay on drug abuse in 500-1000 words.

Drug abuse is a global issue that poses serious risks to individuals and society. It involves the harmful and excessive use of drugs, leading to physical and mental health problems. Drug abuse can result in addiction, organ damage, cognitive impairment, and social and economic difficulties. Prevention efforts should focus on education, raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Access to quality healthcare and addiction treatment services is crucial for recovery. Strengthening law enforcement measures against drug trafficking is necessary to address the supply side of the problem. Creating supportive environments and opportunities for positive engagement can help prevent drug abuse. By taking collective action, we can combat drug abuse and build healthier communities.

Drug abuse is a growing global concern that poses significant risks to individuals, families, and communities. It refers to the excessive and harmful use of drugs, both legal and illegal, that have negative effects on physical and mental health.

Drug abuse has severe consequences for individuals and society. Physically, drug abuse can lead to addiction, damage vital organs, and increase the risk of overdose. Mentally, it can cause cognitive impairment, and psychological disorders, and deteriorate overall well-being. Additionally, drug abuse often leads to social and economic problems, such as strained relationships, loss of employment, and criminal activities.

Preventing drug abuse requires a multi-faceted approach. Education and awareness programs play a crucial role in informing individuals about the dangers of drug abuse and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Access to quality healthcare and addiction treatment services is vital to help individuals recover from substance abuse. Strengthening law enforcement efforts to curb drug trafficking and promoting international cooperation is also essential to address the supply side of the issue.

Community support and a nurturing environment are critical in preventing drug abuse. Creating opportunities for individuals, especially young people, to engage in positive activities and providing social support systems can serve as protective factors against drug abuse.

In conclusion, drug abuse is a significant societal problem with detrimental effects on individuals and communities. It requires a comprehensive approach involving education, prevention, treatment, and enforcement. By addressing the root causes, raising awareness, and providing support to those affected, we can combat drug abuse and create a healthier and safer society for all.

Title: Drug Abuse – A Global Crisis Demanding Urgent Action

Introduction :

Drug abuse is a pressing global issue that poses significant risks to individuals, families, and communities. It refers to the excessive and harmful use of drugs, both legal and illegal, that have detrimental effects on physical and mental health. This essay explores the causes and consequences of drug abuse, the social and economic impact, prevention and treatment strategies, and the importance of raising awareness and fostering supportive communities in addressing this crisis.

Causes and Factors Contributing to Drug Abuse

Several factors contribute to drug abuse. Genetic predisposition, peer pressure, stress, trauma, and environmental influences play a role in initiating substance use. The availability and accessibility of drugs, as well as societal norms and cultural acceptance, also influence drug abuse patterns. Additionally, underlying mental health issues and co-occurring disorders can drive individuals to self-medicate with drugs.

Consequences of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse has devastating consequences on individuals and society. Physically, drug abuse can lead to addiction, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Substance abuse affects vital organs, impairs cognitive function, and increases the risk of accidents and injuries. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis, are often associated with drug abuse. Substance abuse also takes a toll on relationships, leading to strained family dynamics, social isolation, and financial instability. The social and economic costs of drug abuse include increased healthcare expenses, decreased productivity, and the burden on criminal justice systems.

Prevention and Education

Preventing drug abuse requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Education and awareness programs are essential in schools, communities, and the media to inform individuals about the risks and consequences of drug abuse. Promoting healthy coping mechanisms, stress management skills, and decision-making abilities can empower individuals to resist peer pressure and make informed choices. Early intervention programs that identify at-risk individuals and provide support and resources are crucial in preventing substance abuse.

Treatment and Recovery

Access to quality healthcare and evidence-based addiction treatment is vital in addressing drug abuse. Treatment options include detoxification, counseling, behavioral therapies, and medication-assisted treatments. Rehabilitation centers, support groups, and outpatient programs provide a continuum of care for individuals seeking recovery. Holistic approaches, such as addressing co-occurring mental health disorders and promoting healthy lifestyles, contribute to successful long-term recovery. Support from family, friends, and communities plays a significant role in sustaining recovery and preventing relapse.

Law Enforcement and Drug Policies

Effective law enforcement efforts are necessary to disrupt drug trafficking and dismantle illicit drug networks. International cooperation and collaboration are crucial in combating the global drug trade. Additionally, drug policies should focus on a balanced approach that combines law enforcement with prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies. Shifting the emphasis from punitive measures toward prevention and rehabilitation can lead to more effective outcomes.

Creating Supportive Communities:

Fostering supportive communities is vital in addressing drug abuse. Communities should provide resources, social support networks, and opportunities for positive engagement. This includes promoting healthy recreational activities, providing vocational training, and creating safe spaces for individuals in recovery. Reducing the stigma associated with drug abuse and encouraging empathy and understanding are crucial to building a compassionate and supportive environment.

Conclusion :

Drug abuse remains a complex and multifaceted issue with far-reaching consequences. By addressing the causes, raising awareness, implementing preventive measures, providing quality treatment and support services, and fostering supportive communities, we can combat drug abuse and alleviate its impact. It requires collaboration and a collective effort from individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to build a society that is resilient against the scourge of drug abuse. Through education, prevention, treatment, and compassion, we can pave the way toward a healthier and drug-free future.

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Meet top uk universities from the comfort of your home, here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

School Education /

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 and 500 Words in English for Students

Updated on
Apr 2, 2024

Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health. Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the USA, passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 and initiated the War on Drugs . He said, ‘Let us not forget who we are. Drug abuse is a repudiation of everything America is.’

Consuming drugs not only harms the individual himself but also affects society as a whole. Studies have shown that people who consume drugs become addicted to it. This addiction turns into substance abuse, resulting in self-damage, behaviour changes, mood swings, unnecessary weight loss, and several other health problems. Let’s understand what drug abuse is and how to fight it.

Table of Contents

1 Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words
2.1 Why Do People Consume Drugs?
2.2 Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?
2.3 Laws in India Against Drug Consumption
2.4 Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction
2.5 Conclusion
3 10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Quick Read: Essay on CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act)

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words

‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

The Indian government has taken significant steps to help reduce the consumption of drugs. In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force. This act replaced the Opium Act of 1857, the Opium Act of 1878, and the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1930.

Drug abuse can lead to addiction, where a person becomes physically or psychologically dependent on the substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop using it.

Drug abuse can have serious consequences for the individual and society as a whole. On an individual level, drugs can damage physical health, including organ damage, infectious diseases, and overdose fatalities. Not only this, a person already suffering from mental health disorders will face more harmful aftereffects. Addiction disrupts our cognitive functioning and impairs our decision-making abilities.

To fight drug abuse, we need collective action from all sections of society. Medical professionals say that early intervention and screening programmes can identify individuals at risk of substance misuse and provide them with the necessary support services. Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.

Drug abuse is serious and it must be addressed. Drug abuse is killing youth and society. Therefore, it is an urgent topic to address, and only through sustainable and collective efforts can we address this problem.

Quick Read: Success in Life Speech

Essay on Drug Abuse in 500 Words

Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Curiosity drives adolescents and teenagers, who are among the most susceptible groups in our society. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed.

Why Do People Consume Drugs?

The very first question about drugs is: why do people consume drugs? Studies have shown that more than 50% of drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress. In the beginning, drugs temporarily relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, or trauma, providing a temporary escape from difficult emotions or life circumstances.

Some consume drugs out of curiosity, some under peer pressure, and some want to escape the painful experiences. Some people enjoy the effects drugs produce, such as euphoria, relaxation, and altered perceptions. Recreational drug use may occur in social settings or as a form of self-medication for stress relief or relaxation.

Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that drugs can worsen our eyesight and body movement, our physical growth, etc. Marijuana, one of the most popular drugs, can slow down our reaction time, affecting our time and distance judgement and decreasing coordination. Cocaine and Methamphetamine can make the consumer aggressive and careless.

Our brain is the first victim of drugs. Drugs can disorder our body in several ways, from damaging organs to messing with our brains. Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system. Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.

The next target of drug abuse is our physical health and relationships. Drugs can damage our vital organs, such as the liver, heart, lungs, and brain. For example, heavy alcohol use can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, while cocaine use can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Laws in India Against Drug Consumption

Here is an interesting thing; the USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption. According to a report by the Narcotics Control Bureau, around 9 million people in India consume different types of drugs. The Indian government has implemented certain laws against drug consumption and production.

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Also, Article 47 of the Indian Constitution states that ‘ The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption, except for medicinal purposes, of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health.’

Quick Read: Essay on Indian Festivals in 500 Words

Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction

Several steps can be taken to prevent drug addiction. But before we start our ‘War on Drugs’ , it is crucial to understand the trigger point. Our social environment, mental health issues and sometimes genetic factors can play a role in drug abuse.

Education and awareness are the primary weapons in the fight against drugs.
Keeping distance from people and places addicted to drugs.
Encourage a healthy and active lifestyle and indulge in physical workouts.
Watch motivating videos and listen to sound music.
Self-motivate yourself to stop consuming drugs.
Talk to a medical professional or a psychiatrist, who will guide you to the right path.

Drug abuse is a serious problem. The excessive and frequent consumption of drugs not only harms the individual but also affects society as a whole. Only a collective approach from lawmakers, healthcare professionals, educators, community leaders, and individuals themselves can combat drug abuse effectively.

Quick Read: Speech About Life

10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Here is a 10-line essay on drug abuse.

Drug abuse can significantly affect our physical growth
Drug abuse can affect our mental functioning.
Drug abuse may provide instant pleasure, but inside, it weakens our willpower and physical strength.
Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.
Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system.
Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.
In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force.
The USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption.
Drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress.
Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society and are driven by curiosity.

Ans: Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health.

Ans: ‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

Ans: Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society who are driven by curiosity. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

January 2024

September 2024

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Have something on your mind?

Make your study abroad dream a reality in January 2022 with

India's Biggest Virtual University Fair

Essex Direct Admission Day

Why attend .

Don't Miss Out

Science, evidence-based facts, key to help end scourge of drug abuse: UN chief

Methadone is dispensed by a nurse to a former heroin addict in Viet Nam.

Facebook Twitter Print Email

The world’s drug problem remains an urgent challenge that threatens to exacerbate COVID-19 pandemic impacts and hinder a healthy and inclusive recovery, warned the UN Secretary General ahead of The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

In a statement published on Friday, Antonio Guterres underscored that trusting science is the “hero and lesson of the pandemic”, and the same action based on evidence is crucial for the responses to drugs.

Worsening problem

The World Drug Report published this week by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime ( UNODC ) showed that drug related deaths have nearly doubled over the past decade. Moreover, 10% of HIV cases in 2019, were due to people injecting themselves with harmful substances.

The UN chief warned that although international cooperation has helped limit the proliferation of new psychoactive drugs, the problem is shifting to poorer regions where control systems are weaker.

Meanwhile, dark web drug sales continue to rise, and non-medical use of pharmaceuticals, including opioids, is expanding.

“ Drug trafficking and organized crime fuel and perpetuate cycles of violence and conflict. Armed groups and terrorists’ profit from the illicit drug trade, and the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic has left millions of people even more vulnerable to drug crime and illicit crop cultivation”, Mr. Guterres underscored.

Invest in prevention

The Secretary General pointed out that investing in balanced prevention as well as control of drug use and drug use disorders produces solid returns such as lives saved, healthier populations, improved workforce participation and productivity, and reduced criminal justice costs.

“ Many of the risk factors associated with crime and violent behaviour are also drivers of drug use, and targeted efforts focusing on these overlapping dynamics - including childhood maltreatment and lack of social support - can help to strengthen prevention”, he said.

More partnerships and data

Public-private partnerships - with tech companies, postal and courier services, and shipping companies - represent an essential frontline response in the new fight against drug traffickers, who “are increasingly exploiting the legal cargo trade and postal services to move their illicit product”, added Mr. Guterres, underscoring that better data is also useful to identify trends and enable real-time monitoring of the trafficking routes.

The Secretary General urged Member States to listen to the science and take action, building on agreed international frameworks and drawing on UN support for health and justice initiatives.

He also reminded that greater cooperation and support are needed to help low-income countries take advantage of cutting edge anti-drug enforcement techniques.

Government measures to counter the COVID19 pandemic have affected all aspects of illegal drug markets, from production and trafficking to consumption.

‘Share facts on drugs and save lives’

The head of UNODC, Ms. Ghada Waly, echoed the UN chief’s call for leveraging trustworthy, scientific information and the power of community in influencing health choices and addressing the world drug problem.

“Drugs are destroying health and stealing futures, with drug use alone killing almost half a million people in 2019. Awareness of the risks and access to evidence-based treatment and care can help prevent such tragedies”, she said.

In a statement, Ms. Waly explained the theme of this year’s International Day: Share facts on drugs. Save lives . “It highlights the need for evidence-based approaches to equip the public, as well as health and service providers, and decision makers with the tools to inform choices and effective services”, she emphasized.

The campaign highlights key statistics and data drawn from UNODC’s yearly World Drug Report. Thus, providing facts and practical solutions to the current world drug problem, to attain a vision of health for all, based on science.

Ms. Waly urged governments to expand evidence-based prevention and treatment programmes, as well as monitoring and early warning mechanisms to help lower-income countries detect and counter new substances and use trends.

About the day

Through resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.

Supported each year by individuals, communities, and various organizations all over the world, this global observance aims to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society.

International Days

Essay on Say No to Drugs

Students are often asked to write an essay on Say No to Drugs in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Say No to Drugs

Introduction.

Drugs are harmful substances that can ruin our health and life. It’s crucial that we say ‘no’ to drugs, as they can lead to addiction, health problems, and even death.

Effects of Drugs

Importance of saying no.

Saying ‘no’ to drugs is important for our health, future, and overall well-being. It helps us live a healthy, happy, and productive life.

Let’s pledge to say ‘no’ to drugs and spread awareness about their harmful effects.

250 Words Essay on Say No to Drugs

The menace of drugs.

Drugs are a scourge that has plagued society for centuries. They cause havoc to the physical and mental health of individuals and disrupt the fabric of communities and societies.

The Harrowing Consequences

The consequences of drug abuse are multifaceted. Physically, they can lead to severe health problems, including heart disease, liver damage, and even death. Mentally, they can induce paranoia, depression, and anxiety. Socially, drug addiction often leads to broken relationships, unemployment, and crime.

The Power of Saying No

The power to say no to drugs should not be underestimated. It is a personal decision that can save lives and futures. Saying no is not just about personal strength, but also about understanding the profound implications of drug use.

Education as a Preventive Measure

Education plays a pivotal role in preventing drug abuse. It is essential to impart knowledge about the dangers of drugs and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Colleges should integrate drug education into their curriculum, providing students with the necessary tools to make informed decisions.

Collective Responsibility

500 words essay on say no to drugs.

Drugs have been a persistent issue across the globe, posing significant threats to the health and well-being of individuals, particularly among the youth. The phrase “Say No to Drugs” has become a universal mantra, urging individuals to resist the temptation of drug use. This essay explores the reasons why it is crucial to say no to drugs and the potential consequences of drug use.

The Allure and Consequences of Drug Use

Drugs are often seen as an escape route from reality, a way to numb pain or experience an altered state of consciousness. However, this temporary relief comes at a high cost. Prolonged drug use can lead to addiction, a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain’s structure and function, causing long-term cognitive impairment, emotional instability, and physical health problems.

The Impact on Personal Life

The societal impact.

The societal impact of drug abuse is profound. It can lead to an increase in crime rates, as drug addicts may resort to illegal activities to fund their addiction. Moreover, it places a significant burden on the healthcare system, as treating drug addiction and its associated health problems can be costly. It also results in lost productivity, as drug addicts often struggle to maintain steady employment.

Prevention and Awareness

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Essays About Drugs: Top 5 Examples and 8 Prompts

Writing essays about drugs can be challenging; read our guide to find out how to tackle your next essay.

A sheriff once asked a teenager caught with drugs in his car to pen an essay about the substances’ effects . Instead of handcuffing the 17-year-old, the sheriff took into account the kid’s future and threw him a lifeline by giving him a second chance. The 500-word essay effectively made the teenager reflect on his wrongdoings.

There’s still an ongoing debate on the recreational use of drugs. However, their harmful effects outweigh the positive as many fall victim to drug addiction. Drugs risk many lives and relationships, resulting in dangerous living environments, mental health disorders, and other trauma. As of last year, almost 32 million people actively participate in drug use.

Because writing about drugs includes sensitive subjects, it’s critical to demonstrate your complete understanding of the topic and cite reliable sources. Consider the essay samples below to inspire your piece.




$30 per month	$79 per year	$20 per month

1. Long Essay on Drug Addiction by Veerendra

2. causes of drug use among young people by jill nicholson, 3. the failure of america’s war on drugs by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 4. drugs and alcohol abuse: reasons, effects and measures by anonymous on edubirdie.com, 5. social media impact on drug abuse by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 1. drug addiction: painkillers, 2. types of drugs, 3. causes and effects of drug abuse, 4. drug use vs. drug abuse, 5. drugs and destruction, 6. drugs as depicted in the movies, 7. depression and drug abuse, 8. a drug abuse journey.

“Drug addiction impacts millions and needs to be treated carefully to prevent further harm to the individual and letting them live a better life.”

Veerendra defines drug addiction as excessive substance intake leading to various behavioral and physical changes. First, he lists drugs that increase dopamine levels, including alcohol, cocaine, nicotine, and painkillers. Then, after adding the early symptoms of drug addiction, he delves into how it impacts a person’s mental cognition, communication skills, and mental health.

When a person stops taking drugs, withdrawal symptoms follow. These signs (nausea, fatigue, and tremors) can lead to the more detrimental phase known as relapse. Ultimately, he believes that drug addiction treatments and the full support of family and friends greatly aid in overcoming addiction. You might also be interested in these articles about driving under the influence .

“Many curious teens have died the first time they tried certain drugs, like ecstasy. Others have found their temporary escape became a permanent addiction.”

Nicholson discusses the three leading causes of drug use: curiosity, escape, and peer pressure. Mainstream media like TV, movies and social networking sites drive curiosity. Family and friends can also precipitate interest by discussing drugs in front of youngsters.

In the next section, Nicholson explains that most young people who have problems and are unhappy with their lives use drugs to escape reality and hide behind the feel-good chemicals. The last reason young people use drugs is to look cool to impress their peers. Nicholson notes that in a circle of friends if one is using drugs, people assume everyone else is doing it. One way to help these young people is by detailing the health risks accompanying these materials, zeroing in on the chains of addiction.

“… the United States has spent a lot of years trying to wage war on drugs. The cost has been violence, crime, corruption, the devastation of social bonds as well as the destruction of inner-city communities and the exponential development of several minorities and women ending up in jail.”

The essay focuses on the fact that despite spending billions of dollars on resources, alternative treatments, and casualties, the illegal drug trade in America continues and grows stronger. Some reason for this failure includes the public’s perception influenced by media campaigns and ill-suited punishments for non-violent and victimless crimes.

The piece concludes that society will not benefit from anti-drug efforts as long as the government’s solution focuses on criminalization and not treatment.

“… drug abuse means when you use legal or illegal substances in ways you shouldn’t.”

Drug abuse refers to using chemicals to stimulate areas in the brain responsible for immediate gratification. The writer also pins down different drug types and their effects. Further, the essay accounts for users’ reasons for engaging with substance abuse (relationship complications, work pressure, and loneliness.)

These chemical reactions deteriorate a person mentally and physically, with brain function the most affected. Exercising, consulting a doctor, eating healthy, and venting are the four measures to overcome drug and alcohol abuse.

“…active social media uses, especially adolescents, are more likely to try drugs because of the influence they see on the platforms.”

The essay expounds on how social media contributes to drug abuse by romanticizing their consumption. Unfortunately, these idealized posts are so rampant that drug use is socially acceptable. The steady increase of this content on social media attests to this phenomenon.

The main encouragers are celebrities and social media influencers who advertise their wild lifestyle without regard for their followers’ ages or naivete.

If you want to learn about more essay topics, check out the best essay topics about social media.

8 Easy Writing Prompts for Essays About Drugs

Opioid addiction stems from the need to relieve pain from injury and other accidents. Unfortunately, up to 19% of these patients abuse prescription painkillers . For this prompt, research the roots of how painkillers begin as a means to heal victims to being the reason individuals suffer. Identify and explain how narcotic ruins the body. Include how people who need to take these medications can avoid getting addicted.

Briefly explain the different drug types to give your readers an overview of how they work. Next, discuss the most commonly abused drugs and how they affect a person. Finally, add research findings, reliable data, and news articles to strengthen your essay and make it credible.

There are many pieces discussing the causes and effects of drug abuse. To make your essay stand out, compare two families with one parent addicted to illegal substances. The addict in the first family went to rehab and counseling, while the second one didn’t. List down the different futures of these families, such as how the experience resonated with the children.

A person who takes drugs to treat ailments differs from an individual who uses drugs in search of satisfying an impulse craving. Use this prompt to compare and contrast drug use and abuse and why their similarities and differences matter.

Improper use of drugs doesn’t only ruin an individual’s psychological and physical health. It also destroys relationships and families. This destruction can be passed from generation to generation, snowballing the problem and making it more challenging to find a solution. Present this issue to discourage your readers from trying drugs.

Leonardo De Caprio’s “The Wolf of Wall Street” is one of the most famous movies showing how people justify taking drugs. First, write a short review of this film or pick other drug-related flicks you want to review in your essay. Next, juxtapose things you notice in movies that also happen in an addict’s real life. Finally, finish your piece by sharing what you learned from the film and its main characters.

Another reason some turn to drugs is to run away from their mental illness, such as depression. Substance Use Disorder explains why an individual can’t control the urge to abuse drugs and alcohol. Delve more into this condition and how it rewires the brain. Include addicts’ grounds for self-medication and other risk factors that can trigger this disorder.

It’s not easy to share drug-related experiences. However, many get inspiration from these stories too. To connect with your readers, write about a drug abuse journey. It can be your own or from a close friend or relative. Share how it started, including the reasons and influence it left on the people involved. Conclude with the steps the person did to overcome their drug addiction and how they rebuild relationships. Finally, end your essay with how they are currently living.

Here’s a great tip: If writing an essay seems daunting, start by simplifying it to simple paragraphs first. Then, read our guide on how to write a 5 paragraph essay .

Skip to main content
Skip to secondary menu
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

A Plus Topper

Improve your Grades

Essay on Drug Addiction | Drug Addiction Essay for Students and Children in English

February 12, 2024 by Veerendra

Essay on Drug Addiction: Addiction refers to the harmful need to consume substances that have damaging consequences on the user. Addiction affects not just the body but also on the person’s mental health and soundness of mind. Addiction is one of the most severe health problems faced around the world and is termed as a chronic disease. A widespread disorder ranges from drugs, alcohol addiction to gambling, and even phone addiction.

You can read more Essay Writing about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

One of the most unfortunate yet common addictions that affect millions today is drug addiction. Also referred to as substance – use disorder, it is the addiction to substances that harm neurological functioning and a person’s behavior. The essay provides relevant information on this topic.

Long and Short Essay on Drug Addiction in English for Students and Kids

There are two essays listed below. The long essay consists of 500 words and a short essay of 200 words.

Long Essay on Drug Addiction in English 500 words

Drug addiction, also known as substance–use disorder, refers to the dangerous and excessive intake of legal and illegal drugs. This leads to many behavioral changes in the person as well as affects brain functions. Drug addiction includes abusing alcohol, cocaine, heroin, opioid, painkillers, and nicotine, among others. Drugs like these help the person feel good about themselves and induce ‘dopamine’ or the happiness hormone. As they continue to use the drug, the brain starts to increase dopamine levels, and the person demands more.

Drug addiction has severe consequences. Some of the signs include anxiety, paranoia, increased heart rate, and red eyes. They are intoxicated and unable to display proper coordination and have difficulty in remembering things. A person who is addicted cannot resist using them and unable to function correctly without ingesting them. It causes damage to the brain, their personal and professional relationships. It affects mental cognition; they are unable to make proper decisions, cannot retain information, and make poor judgments. They tend to engage in reckless activities such as stealing or driving under the influence. They also make sure that there is a constant supply and are willing to pay a lot of money even if they are unable to afford it and tend to have erratic sleep patterns.

Drug addiction also causes a person to isolate themselves and have either intense or no food cravings. They stop taking care of their hygiene. Drug addiction affects a person’s speech and experience hallucinations. They are unable to converse and communicate properly; they speak fast and are hyperactive. Those addicted have extreme mood swings. They can go from feeling happy to feeling sad quickly and are incredibly secretive. They begin to lose interest in activities they once loved. Substance abusers also undergo withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms refer to the symptoms that occur when they stop taking the drug. Some withdrawal symptoms include nausea, fatigue, and tremors. They stop and starting using again, an endless cycle that could be life-threatening. Drug addiction can be fatal if not treated timely. It can cause brain damage and seizures as well as overdose, heart diseases, respiratory problems, damage to the liver and kidneys, vomiting, lung diseases, and much more.

Though chronic, treatment is available for drug addiction. Many techniques are used, such as behavioral counseling, medication to treat the addiction, and providing treatment not just for substance abuse but also for many factors that accompany addiction such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Many devices have developed to overcome addiction. There are rehabilitation centers to help people. After treatment, there are numerous follow-ups to ensure that the cycle does not come back. The most important is having family and friends to support the effect. It will help them build confidence and come over their addiction.

The United Nations celebrates International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on the 26th of June. Drug addiction impacts millions and needs to be treated carefully to prevent further harm to the individual and letting them live a better life.

Short Essay on Drug Addiction in English 250 words

Drug addiction refers to taking substances that are harmful to our bodies. They cause changes to a person’s behavior as well. Many people take these drugs to feel happier and better about themselves. These dangerous substances make the brain produce a chemical that makes us happy, called dopamine. Producing large amounts of these causes the person to take the drug consistently.

Some of the drugs include alcohol, nicotine, and other unhealthy substances. Taking these substances can lead to many symptoms. These include unable to think correctly, cannot remember things, and unable to speak clearly. They steal and keep secrets from their close ones. Those addicted cannot sleep; they become happy and sad quickly. They stop doing the activities that they liked doing. They are not aware of their surroundings. Taking these dangerous substances can cause many health problems such as vomiting, unable to breathe, brain, and lung damage. It also affects their family, friends, and work.

Drug addiction is life-threatening. However, people with this addiction can be treated and helped with therapy, counseling, and taking medicines along with rehab centers. They do follow-ups to ensure that they never retake these drugs. They must have their family and friends to support them as they recover.

10 lines About Drug Addiction Essay in English

Drug addiction refers to taking harmful substances that affect a person’s brain functions and behavior. It involves taking legal and illegal drugs, and the person is unable to stop using them. It is also referred to as substance- use disorders
Harmful drugs include alcohol, cocaine, heroin, opioids, painkillers, nicotine, etc.
The harmful drugs cause an excessive release of dopamine or the happy hormone, which causes the person to take more.
Drug addiction can affect mental cognition, including decision making, judgments, and memory. It also causes speech problems.
It can cause anxiety paranoia and increased blood pressure. They have erratic sleep patterns and isolate themselves. It causes problems in their personal and professional relationships.
Those addicted become moody, hyperactive, and hallucinate. They also engage in reckless activities.
They experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using substances. These include nausea, fatigue, and tremors.
It can have many effects on the body, such as brain damage, seizures, liver and kidney damage, respiratory and lung issues.
Treatment is available. It includes behavioral therapy, medication, rehabilitation, as well as a follow-up to prevent relapse.
The United Nations celebrates International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on the 26th of June.

Frequently Asked Questions on Drug Addiction Essay

Question 1. What is drug addiction?

Answer: Drug addiction, also known as substance – use disorder, refers to the dangerous and excessive intake of legal and illegal drugs. This leads to many behavioral changes in the person as well as affects brain functions.

Question 2. Why does drug addiction occur?

Answer: People become addicted to these drugs because they want to feel happier. The drugs cause a chemical called dopamine, which induces happiness to be released. The brain starts to increase dopamine levels, and thus the person becomes addicted to the drug to match the increasing levels.

Question 3. What is the difference between dependence and addiction?

Answer: Dependence and addiction vary. While dependence is an intense craving for the drug by the body, addiction also refers to the changes in behavior and bodily functions due to repeated use of the drug, which has severe consequences.

Question 4. Can we treat drug addiction?

Answer: Yes, drug addiction can be treated. The various treatment methods are behavioral counseling, medication, and treatment of anxiety and depression. There are rehabilitation centers available. This is followed by a check-up to prevent relapse.

Picture Dictionary
English Speech
English Slogans
English Letter Writing
English Essay Writing
English Textbook Answers
Types of Certificates
ICSE Solutions
Selina ICSE Solutions
ML Aggarwal Solutions
HSSLive Plus One
HSSLive Plus Two
Kerala SSLC
Distance Education

Search the United Nations

UN Observances

A staff member of the Liberia National Police Anti-Drug Squad

By resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.

The evidence is clear: invest in prevention

The global drug problem presents a multifaceted challenge that touches the lives of millions worldwide. From individuals struggling with substance use disorders to communities grappling with the consequences of drug trafficking and organized crime, the impact of drugs is far-reaching and complex. Central to addressing this challenge is the imperative to adopt a scientific evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment.

The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is marked on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. This year’s World Drug Day campaign recognizes that effective drug policies must be rooted in science, research, full respect for human rights, compassion, and a deep understanding of the social, economic, and health implications of drug use.

Together, let us amplify our efforts to combat the global drug problem, guided by the principles of science, compassion, and solidarity. Through collective action and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can create a world where individuals are empowered to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

#WorldDrugDay #InvestInPrevention

World Drug Report

Every year, UNODC issues the World Drug Report , full of key statistics and factual data obtained through official sources, a science-based approach and research. UNODC continues to provide facts and practical solutions to address the current world drug problem and remains committed to attaining health for all. Health and justice sectors are under pressure and access to services and support is obstructed when we can least afford it.

Why Is Cocaine Trafficking Surging?

For two decades, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has been helping make the world safer from drugs, organized crime, corruption and terrorism. We are committed to achieving health, security and justice for all by tackling these threats and promoting peace and sustainable well-being as deterrents to them.

The World Drug Report provides a global overview of the supply and demand of opiates, cocaine, cannabis, amphetamine-type stimulants and new psychoactive substances (NPS), as well as their impact on health. It highlights, through improved research and more precise data, that the adverse health consequences of drug use are more widespread than previously thought.

an abstract illustration of people engaged in an event

Why do we mark International Days?

International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also mark other UN observances .

Why is Drug Education Important?

Why is drug education important? Understanding the impact of alcohol and other drugs is undoubtedly an invaluable strength. Knowing how drugs impact the body, the long and short-term effects of substance abuse, and the possible risk factors involved are all key in the prevention strategy. Research continues to provide substance abuse experts with more material to help educate community members on the dangers of illicit substances and drug misuse. Life-saving skills can develop from newer, evidence-based research and educational materials.

Drug education is not just for teachers or drug-free advocates and counselors. Everyone can benefit from the knowledge obtained from addiction researchers and specialists. It can help create safe and effective treatments as well as reduce the potential for increased substance abuse rates throughout a community.

Resources Provide Needed Education

No one questions the severity of the nationwide drug epidemic and its devastating impact on millions of lives. Alcohol and drugs undermine health and destroy futures, especially among the nation’s youth. To combat rising trends in addiction and addiction overdoses, experts are creating educational programs that use evidence-based training to help inform community members of peer pressure , mental health concerns , prescription drug abuse, prevention strategy, and much more.

The best solution is to reach young people with effective, fact-based drug education—before they start experimenting with drugs. Tweens, teens and young adults who know the facts about drugs are much less likely to start using them. -Drug Free World

The majority of local outreach programs seek to address community violence and drug use by properly educating residents, physicians, law enforcement, educators, and all pillars in the community about the lasting impact of addiction.

Prescription Medications: Changes in Policy

A great example of educational resources that evolved due to growing trends in substance abuse rates are those that surround the issue of prescription narcotic abuse.

Prior to 1990, physicians rarely prescribed opioids to patients other than those combating pain due to certain cancer types. By 1999, 86% of patients using opioids were using them for non-cancer pain. Communities, where opioids were readily available and prescribed liberally, were the first places to experience increased opioid abuse and resulting overdoses. In 2015, the National Survey on Drug Use and (NSDUH) found that 6.5 million Americans over the age of 12 used controlled prescription medicines non-medically, second only to marijuana and more than past-month users of cocaine, heroin, and hallucinogens combined.

The sharpest rise in drug-related deaths occurred in 2016, with over 20,000 deaths from fentanyl and related drugs. Shortly after, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued comprehensive guidelines for prescribing opioids for chronic pain outside of cancer treatment and end-of-life care.

By 2018, newer educational material revealed the truly devastating effects and widespread consequences of overprescribing opioids for general pain relief. As a result, more physicians took new approaches tor pain management. This is another reason why drug education is important.

Local Outreach Programs

Local outreach programs tend to focus on the local community needs, however there are larger scale programs aimed at informing the country about current drug related concerns. The United States Department of Health and Human Services is currently using a five step model to help address the opioid epidemic in the United States. The first step is to properly inform all Americans of the impact of the opioid crisis.

Drug education is not to be taken lightly and is a crucial factor in addressing deep seeded concerns that may perpetuate substance use disorders. Learn more about the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Health and Human Services is utilizing drug education to help address nationwide addiction.

What is Drug Education?

Drug education is a general term, but it incorporates several areas of alcohol and other drug recovery. It may refer to:

Research & development
Preventive treatment
Early childhood or in-school education

The term drug education refers to the attempt to inform those living in a community where psychoactive drugs may be widely available and or could have a significant effect on families, politics, and finances. It is used to help teach the effects drugs may have on physical health.

Drug education can be presented in many different formats including:

Advertising
Open Community Board Meetings
Employee Assistance Programs
Hospital and clinical training
Wellness Coaching
Research papers
Infographics

Beyond providing help in substance abuse prevention, drug education is a large proponent of providing safe and healthy resources that promote healthy living. For example, it may raise awareness of community needs, such as a lack of available gyms, lack of proper community health facilities or addiction treatment options, and a lack of safe and healthy recreational activities. Drug education shows what resources may be missing in an affected community and can increase awareness and safety in the community.

For further examples of current drug education resources, visit Drug Policy Alliance here . They discuss the potential for harm reduction, parenting, advocacy, and stigma regarding community drug use.

Accessing Community Drug Education

Drug education is progressing in significant ways as newer research seeks to address disparities among various communities. Previously, an abstinence-only policy was widely believed to be the best method in addressing addiction. Unfortunately, programs like D.A.R.E didn’t produce the intended results . Experts think this is because abstinence education doesn’t give students the tools needed to make safe decisions or find help when substance abuse is already an issue.

More funding is helping to develop evidence-based systems for educating youth and community members in rural and urban environments. Some resources that provide access to community drug education include:

U.S. Department of Education
National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Impaired Driving Division
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
National Institute on Drug Abuse
Office of National Drug Control
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Office of Safe and Healthy Students

Importance Of Drug Education For Addiction

Is there a Need for Drug Education While Struggling with Addiction?

Yes. Participating in drug education while struggling with addiction is highly important. Several rehabilitation programs and relapse prevention programs use drug education to help inform clients about the severe impact drugs and alcohol have have on their personal and professional lives.

Drug education in rehab facilities develops awareness of possible triggers that may risk current progress toward sobriety. Furthermore, drug education can reduce the potential for relapse as patients can become aware of risky people, places, and situations. It is helpful to avoid such triggers or develop skills to overcome certain relapse triggers . Common triggers may include:

Fear of Relapse

Becoming aware of these triggers and how they may personally impact a person suffering from alcohol or other drugs is critical. Triggers will always be present in all communities. Being able to identify triggers decreases the potential to accidentally place one’s self in a risky position that can jeopardize current progress.

AspenRidge: Educating Clients in Recovery

AspenRidge is a premier substance abuse and mental health treatment center. Our highly trained staff incorporates drug education in the form of skill building to safely and effectively aid in long-term recovery. AspenRidge offers various programs, all of which seek to address various levels of substance abuse and underlying mental health concerns that may prevent long-term recovery.

Please contact AspenRidge at 855-678-3144 . Our compassionate staff will help to verify insurance options and to clarify treatment options available at AspenRidge Recovery Centers.

About the Author

Karlie Roshong

Karlie is originally from Dayton, Ohio, and began her education in psychology at the University of Cincinnati. She participated in research studying ADHD in children, mindfulness and anxiety, and embodied cognition. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she continued her education at the University of Denver and earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling with a side specialization in addiction. During grad school, she treated clients involved in the legal system as well as at a detox facility. After graduating, Karlie gained experience working in a residential program for eating disorders and a private practice before joining the AspenRidge team.

In her time here, Karlie trained as a clinical supervisor and an Acudetox therapist. She has a passion for working with clients to help them develop a more profound sense of identity to navigate depressive and anxious symptoms. She’s passionate about working with clients to work through trauma and improve mental stability. In her personal life, Karlie likes reading sci-fi and fantasy and going to Marvel movies. She enjoys playing board games and having home karaoke nights with her friends. Karlie says the best advice ever received is to not fall in love with potential. Fall in love with what is, then work to grow from there.

TALK TO SOMEONE

Our addiction specialists are here to help 24/7. Give us a call and we can help find the right treatment program for you or your loved one – even if it’s not ours! We are here to help.

AspenRidge Locations

Fort Collins
Colorado Springs
Online Recovery
(855) 281-5588

Rehab Programs

Day Program
5-Day IOP Program
3-Day IOP Program
Virtual Care Program
Alumni Program

Business Resources

How It Works
Insurance Verification
Testimonials

Local Resources

View All City Resources

In Network Providers

Blue Cross Blue Shield
Bright Health
Beacon Health
Cofinity / First Health
Kaiser Permanente

DANNY SAN FILIPPO – Clinical Director

Originally from Boca Raton, Florida, Danny moved to Denver to study at the University of Colorado and earned a master’s degree in counseling. Danny spent the first nine years of his career working in youth residential treatment. After managing that program for six years, Danny moved to AspenRidge and now leads the clinical team.

Danny specializes in brainspotting and reality therapy. He describes his area of expertise as treating substance use disorders, compulsive behaviors, and co-occurring mood disorders such as depression and anxiety that may travel with a substance use disorder. Danny has extensive experience in effectively treating incidental and complex trauma. He further describes his approach as science-driven, constantly reviewing the latest literature and theory. Danny ensures he has as many techniques as possible to help people improve their well-being and achieve their goals. Outside of work, he divides his time between family, basketball, and rock climbing. If Danny won the lottery, he’d start a tech company focusing on deep learning to support people in coping strategies. And, you know, keep working here.

Originally from Chino Hills, California, Chanel began her education at Gonzaga University, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Philosophy. She continued her education at the University of Denver and earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. Chanel completed internships at AspenRidge during her studies and eventually joined the team as a full-time primary clinician.

Chanel describes herself as a humanistic therapist focused on building rapport and trust. She knows that when both of those are realized, they can accomplish each client’s unique goals together. She specializes in mood and personality disorders as they relate to addiction and is passionate about healing trauma by way of brainspotting and other trauma therapy methods. She has a goal to visit every state capitol and has been to 29 so far! If she won the lottery tomorrow, Chanel said she start a bookstore with a bakery inside for guests to enjoy their favorite books with an excellent coffee and dessert.

KARLIE ROSHONG – Clinical Manager

JILL GODING

Jill is a Colorado native who received a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis on women’s studies from the University of Houston. Jill has worked in several inpatient and outpatient centers, treating clients in all levels of care in both individual and group settings.

She is a trauma-informed clinician who prioritizes the relationship between clinician and client. Addiction impacted her own family and influenced her compassionate and empathetic relationship with clients. She believes in healing the whole person in a safe and supportive environment. Jill enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, friends, and pets when she is not in the office. She spends most weekends in the mountains hiking, fishing, 4-wheeling, and camping. Jill is an avid photographer and particularly enjoys Colorado sunsets. If she won the lottery tomorrow, Jill would create a pet sanctuary where the community would unite. And, you know, keep working here.

COURTNEY SKILLMAN

Hailing from Boulder County, Courtney embarked on her academic journey by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She furthered her education by completing a master’s of science in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University. Additionally, Courtney obtained certificates in Alcohol and Drug Studies and is certified in Branspotting, a clinical treatment technique aiding individuals in processing trauma.

Courtney’s professional experience in substance use treatment began in a holistic residential treatment center. Since then, she has worked across various settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community corrections programs.

Describing her therapeutic approach as evidence-based, Courtney champions a humanistic or person-centered approach as the ideal foundation. She integrates her expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor interventions according to each client’s distinct needs.

Beyond her clinical practice at AspenRidge, Courtney finds solace in outdoor activities, sports, reading, and cherishing quality time with her family and beloved dog.

JUSTIN GREEN – Primary Clinician

Justin was born and raised in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he began his clinical education at Colorado State University. He received his bachelor’s in health and exercise science with a concentration in sports medicine and eventually earned a master’s of psychology in addiction counseling. During his time as a therapist, Justin has worked in a residential addiction treatment facility, private practice, and outpatient settings.

Justin’s goal as a clinician is to help clients rediscover their own sense of agency over their lives. He knows therapy is a sacred process, and treatment is rarely as simple as finding the solution to one’s problems. Justin meets clients where they are and aims to help people learn to cultivate self-compassion, presence, and curiosity toward their pain. When he is not working with clients at AspenRidge, Justin plays basketball and disc golf, noodles on the guitar, and spends time with his wife and family. Justin says if he invented a holiday, it would definitely involve cookies, ice cream, and all sorts of sweet things.

BRIONNA MOORE – Primary Clinician

Originally from Southern California and later the Hudson Valley area of New York, Brionna pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the State University of New York at Oswego and completed her master’s in addiction counseling at Colorado State University.

Specializing in Compulsive Hoarding and Behavior Addictions, Brionna guides clients towards healthier relationships and boundaries. Additionally, she is trained in Brainspotting, offering a unique approach to trauma-informed care. Brionna’s therapeutic approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), empowering clients to challenge negative thinking patterns and manage intense emotions through mindfulness practices.

Outside of work, Brionna finds solace in arts and crafts, particularly crocheting and creative writing. She cherishes quiet moments with a good book, her two beloved cats, and the tranquility of nature’s walking trails.

KATHLEEN MORGAN

Kathleen was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, but spent half of her life in California. She holds a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy. Additionally, she has a master’s in holistic wellness and is trained in EMDR therapy for both in-person and virtual settings. Kathleen has more than 15 years of experience treating people who have a substance use disorder.

She typically works with people interested in taking a holistic approach to treating their addictions. This will include healthy eating, movement, meditation, mindfulness and spirituality. Outside of work, she’s a devotee of Krishna, and her friends call her Karunya Shakti, which means compassionate energy. She enjoys singing and dancing in kirtan and reading ancient Vedic literature like the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam. If she weren’t so damn good at her job, she says she would probably be an electrical engineer.

A Denver native and lifelong Colorado resident, Megan embarked on her academic journey at the University of Northern Colorado. There, she earned dual bachelor’s degrees before pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. During her academic years, she dedicated herself to assisting refugees fleeing war and violence in their home countries.

Megan’s therapeutic approach is multifaceted, drawing from narrative, feminist, and existential therapy modalities. By employing these frameworks, Megan empowers her clients to confront their realities and comprehend the tangible impact of systemic factors on their lives.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Megan finds joy in the company of her partner and pets. She relishes spending time with friends, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring the great outdoors during milder weather.

CHRISTY SCHUETT

Christy Schuett, originally from Aberdeen, South Dakota, holds a master’s degree in counseling from Northern State University. Her journey began with crisis intervention for families, evolving into roles in community counseling, corrections, and residential facilities. Christy’s worked inthe field for more than 30 years.

Specializing in diverse mental health challenges, including depression, addiction, and trauma, Christy embraces a person-centered approach. She tailors interventions to individual needs, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR.

Outside of work, Christy finds solace in nature, enjoying activities like gardening and mountain biking, alongside cherished moments with her family and dogs. If she weren’t excelling in her current role, Christy would likely champion environmental activism, advocating for nature’s preservation.

DARCIE O’CONNOR

Originally from Center Point, Iowa, Darcie pursued her academic journey at Walden University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then relocated to Alamosa, Colorado, where she obtained a master’s degree from Adams State University.

Describing her approach as eclectic, Darcie seamlessly combines person-centered and evidence-based practices. Drawing from her background in local improv groups, she infuses sessions with laughter and humor, fostering a non-judgmental space for clients. Darcie believes in collaborating with her clients, tailoring interventions to suit their individual needs.

Her expertise encompasses group and individual work, with a particular focus on trauma. Darcie finds fulfillment in working with the LGBTQ+ population, leveraging her skills to support and empower. The best piece of advice she’s ever heard is to never take advice from someone who does not have what you are seeking.

JORDAN ADSIT – Primary Clinician

Originally from Nashville, TN, Jordan moved to Colorado with her family at age five. She has worked in behavioral health since graduating with her bachelor’s degree in 2019. Jordan developed her clinical approach in various inpatient, hospital, outpatient, and private practice settings. Jordan continued her studies and earned a master’s in clinical and mental health counseling. Between post-graduate work and additional training courses, she honed her skills in treating first responders and military personnel from a trauma-informed perspective. In 2023, Jordan joined the clinical team at AspenRidge Recovery. Jordan describes her approach as eclectic but most beneficial and includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and family-oriented practices.

Outside AspenRidge, Jordan enjoys rock climbing, snowboarding, and playing volleyball and soccer. She believes she was probably a rodeo queen in another life and recharges by spending time with friends and family.

Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Dare Program — Anti-Drug Education: DARE Program

Anti-drug Education: Dare Program

Categories: Dare Program War on Drugs

About this sample

Words: 1270 |

Published: May 24, 2022

Words: 1270 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

Expert in: Nursing & Health Law, Crime & Punishment

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1353 words

5 pages / 1097 words

13 pages / 5869 words

2 pages / 866 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Dare Program

Learning D.A.R.E was interesting and fun. Through the D.A.R.E program, we are learning to make good decisions, avoid violence, and most importantly, be drug-free. Therefore, it is so important to stop young people before they [...]

The D.A.R.E. Program has done a successful job in helping with the prevention of drug use in juveniles as well as assisting in the rehabilitation of those that have already walked down that path. The program has also been [...]

Food labeling will help in solving the issue of obesity in the country because consumers will be knowledgeable of calorie levels of different products. It will provide consumers with a choice on which food products to consume [...]

The 1990’s, an era where everywhere you looked children were playing; roaming the streets, riding bicycles, and playing kickball in the side yards. These days seem to have vanished. The 2000’s are considered the technology era. [...]

Hand hygiene substantially reduces potential pathogens on the hands and is considered a primary measure for reducing the risk of transmitting organisms to others (Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives, 2017). Wherever you are and [...]

Kenya is one of the countries that have been hard hit by the AIDS epidemic, with the country reporting over 100,000 new HIV infections every year. In 2005, the country was ranked 4th in the world by HIV population and 17th by [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

Essay on Drug Addiction in English for Children and Students

Table of Contents

Essay on Drug Addiction: Drug addiction is not a disease as it may seem to many people. It is a psychological disorder that leads a person to use drugs excessively. Even though the person may know that the drugs are harming his body, he cannot control his urge to consume more and more drugs. The addiction may start with a small quantity but gradually it increases with time. The person becomes a slave of drugs and cannot live without them. He may start stealing money to buy drugs. In some cases, he may even sell his body to buy drugs.

Fill Out the Form for Expert Academic Guidance!

Please indicate your interest Live Classes Books Test Series Self Learning

Verify OTP Code (required)

I agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy .

Fill complete details

Target Exam ---

A drug is any substance that changes how a person feels or acts, whether it’s physically, mentally, emotionally, or behaviorally. Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, happens when someone loses control over using drugs or medications, whether legal or not. Drugs like alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine fall into this category. When someone is addicted, they might keep using the drug even if it harms them.

Long and Short Essay on Drug Addiction in English

Here are long and short essay on Drug Addiction of various lengths to help you with the topic in your exam.

These Drug Addiction essay have been written using very simple and easy language to convey the facts on Drug Addiction among people.

After going through these essays you would be able to know what Drug Addiction is, how Drug Addiction is harmful to health, what are ways to overcome Drug Addiction, impact of Drug Addiction on human behaviour, etc.

Essay on Drug Addiction in 200 words – Essay 1

Drug addiction is a common problem these days. Vast number of people around the world suffers from this problem. Drugs offer an instant pleasure and relief from stress. Many people begin taking drugs as an escape from their painful reality. Others take drugs just to experience how it feels.

Yet others take it just to give company to their friends so that they don’t get left out. Whatever be the reason, before a person knows, he gets addicted to drugs and it is hard to get rid of this addiction. Short-term pleasure caused by the use of drugs can lead to serious long term problems. It can cause severe health issues and behavioural changes.

Some of the symptoms of drug addiction include loss of appetite, impaired coordination, and restlessness, loss of interest in work, financial issues, and change of social circle, secretive behaviour, frequent mood swings and anxious behaviour.

Many people argue that overcoming addiction just requires will power and determination. However, this is not it. It requires much more. Drug addiction alters the brain and causes powerful cravings. Will power alone cannot help overcome this strong urge. It is essential to seek professional help and take proper medication in order to get rid of drug addiction. It can take years to overcome this addiction and the chances of a relapse cannot be ruled out completely.

Essay on Drug Addiction: Harmful for Health (300 words) – Essay 2

Drug addiction weakens a person’s immune system. It causes various mental and physical illnesses. The problems can be both short term and long term. The kind of drug a person consumes, how he consumes it, how much he consumes it and the period of time for which he takes it form the basis of different health problems.

Drug Addiction: Impact on Physical Health

Drug addiction can take a toll on a person’s physical health. It harms various parts of the body including brain, throat, lungs, stomach, pancreas, liver, heart and the nervous system. It can cause health problems such as nausea, heart problem, damaged liver, stroke, lung disease, weight loss and even cancer.

Drug addicts also stand a high risk of contracting AIDS. This is because they usually share needles to inject drugs. Driving or even walking on the road while you are under the influence of drugs can be risky. Such a person has a high chance of meeting with accident.

Drug Addiction: Impact on Mental Health

Drug addiction has severe impact on a person’s brain. Drugs interfere with decision making and impact a person’s psychomotor skills. They can cause mental health issues such as depression, Alzheimer, insomnia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, conduct problems and psychosocial dysfunctions. Drug addicts have suicidal thoughts and often attempt suicide.

Drug Addiction: Effect on Unborn Babies

Addiction can put the unborn babies in high risk. Pregnant women addicted to drugs can harm the fetus. Unborn babies are likely to develop birth defects and both mental and physical abnormalities. Drug addiction can also result in premature birth. Some babies even display behavioural issues later in life. It is highly recommended to get rid of drug addiction before planning a baby.

Essay on Drug Addiction – Ways to Overcome Drug Addiction (400 words) – Essay 3

People belonging to different age groups and varied walks of life fall prey to drug addiction. While some are able to overcome this addiction with some difficulty, others get thrown in the dark world of drugs forever. One needs to be truly willing to get rid of drug addiction and put as much effort to overcome this abuse.

Essay on Drug Addiction

While anyone can develop drug addiction some people have a greater chance of developing this. Here is a look at people who are at high risk of developing drug addiction:

Those who have suffered some heart wrenching/ traumatic experiences in life.
who have a family history of drug addiction.
Those who have suffered mental or physical abuse or neglect.
Those suffering from depression and anxiety.

Ways to Overcome Drug Addiction

Here are some of the ways to overcome drug addiction:

List the Reasons to Quit

As you decide to quit drug addiction, make a list of the problems you are facing due to your addiction. This can include problems at work front, problems with your spouse, kids and parents, physical and mental health issues and more. Read this list everyday as you embark on your journey to quit this hazardous habit. This will motivate you to leave it.

Enroll at a Rehabilitation Centre

This is one of the main steps to overcome drug addiction. Good rehabilitation centres have qualified and experienced professionals who know just how to deal with the addicts and help them get rid of their drug addiction. Meeting other drug addicts and seeing how hard they are trying to leave this addiction to get back to normal life can also be encouraging.

Seek Support from Friends and Family

Love and support from our near and dear ones can play an important part when it comes to getting rid of drug addiction. It can help the drug addict stay determined and motivated to leave this detestable habit. So, do not hesitate to discuss this problem with them. They will be more than willing to help you get rid of the addiction.

As you stop the consumption of drugs, you may suffer from withdrawal symptoms. Medication is required to deal with these symptoms. Medication also helps in preventing relapse. Health issues that may have been caused due to drug addiction also need to be cured. Medicines will help cure them.

Drug addiction can be extremely hard to leave. However, it is not impossible to do so. Strong determination and support from friends and family can help in getting rid of drug addiction.

Essay on Drug Addiction – Impact of Drug Addiction on Human Behavioral (500 words) – Essay 5

Drug Addiction impacts the physical health badly. It puts the addict at the risk of incurring health problems such as cardiac arrest, stroke and abdominal pain. It also causes mental health issues such as depression, insomnia and bipolar disorder to name a few. In addition to impacting a person’s health, drug addiction also impacts the human behavioral. All kinds of drugs including cocaine, marijuana and weed, impact the brain instinct and cause mood swings that result in behavioral issues.

Common Behavioral Issues Faced by Drug Addicts

Drug addiction messes with a person’s brain function. It interferes with the way a person behaves and the kind of choices he makes.

Aggressiveness

A person who is under the influence of drugs can get highly aggressive. Drug addicts often get enraged on the smallest of things. This behaviour is not just seen when they are experiencing a high. Continual use of drugs somehow embeds aggressiveness in their personality. It is difficult to get along with such people. You need to be highly cautious around them as they can throw frequent bouts of anger and aggression.

Impaired Judgement

Drug addiction bars a person’s ability to think rationally. Drug addicts are unable to take proper decisions. Their judgement is impaired. They can no longer distinguish between what is right and what is wrong.

Impulsiveness

Drug addicts also display impulsive behaviour. They act and react without thinking much. This behaviour is usually displayed when they are feeling a high. However, they may even display impulsive behaviour when they return to their normal state. Drug addicts mostly take decisions that they regret later.

Loss of Self Control

Drug addiction takes over the addict’s brain and they lose self control. They cannot control their actions even if they wish to. Grow strong craving for drugs and it is hard to resist even though they wish to. They also cannot control their reaction to things. Drugs overpower their decisions, actions, reactions and behaviour.

Low Performance at Work

A person who grows addicted to drugs experiences a drop in performance at work/ school. He is unable to concentrate on his work and continually thinks about taking drugs . He feels lethargic and low on energy when he doesn’t get his supply. All this is a big hindrance to work.

Hallucination

It has been noted that those under the influence of drugs often hallucinate. They see things and hear noises that do not really exist. The drugs that are particularly known for causing hallucinations include Salvia, Mescaline, LSD, Psilocybin Mushrooms and Ketamine.

In an attempt to hide their drug addiction from family and friends drug addicts often grow secretive. They usually avoid spending time with their parents/ kids/ spouse. They often socialize with other drug addicts and stop hanging out with other friends. This often makes them socially awkward.

Drug addiction can cause behavioural issues that can impact a person’s personal as well as professional life negatively. It is an addiction that one must get rid of as soon as possible. A person may struggle to make positive changes in his behaviour long after he has left drug addiction.

Long Essay on Drug Addiction: The Worst Addiction (600 words) – Essay 5

Introduction.

Drug intake releases large amount of dopamine that puts a person in an ecstatic state. People love experiencing this happy state and wish to get here time and again which is one of the main reasons of drug addiction. Initially most people take drugs voluntarily however it soon turns out to be an addiction. Drug addiction is the worst kind of addiction. It is hard to leave and the negative repercussions it has may last even after a person gets rid of this addiction.

Types of Drugs

Drugs have broadly been categorized into three types. These are depressant, stimulants and hallucinogens. Here is a look at the impact each one of them causes on a human mind and body:

Depressants : Depressants include cannabis, opiates, benzodiazepines and alcohol. They are known to slow down the speed of the messages going to and from the brain and thus lower the ability to take charge of a situation. When taken in small amount, depressants can make a person feel relaxed. However, when taken in large quantity, these can cause nausea, vomiting and unconsciousness.
Stimulants : Stimulants, on the other hand, speed up the messages going to and from the brain. They have the power to boost a person’s confidence level instantly. On the downside, they can cause high blood pressure, increase heart rate and cause restlessness, agitation and insomnia. Continual use of such drugs causes panic attacks, anxiety and paranoia. Stimulants include nicotine, caffeine, cocaine and amphetamines.
Hallucinogens : Hallucinogens include LSF, PCP, cannabis, mescaline and psilocybin. These drugs cause hallucination and distort a person’s sense of reality. When taken continually, these drugs can cause high blood pressure, nausea, paranoia and numbness.

Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction

A person who grows addicted to drugs is likely to show the following signs and symptoms:

Change in appetite
Unexpected weight gain or weight loss
Change in sleep pattern
Slurred speech
Change in friend circle
Sudden bouts of anger
Bloodshot eyes
Loss of interest in work
Low performance at work/school
Secretive behaviour
Being lethargic, distant and disinterested
Frequent mood swings
Lack of motivation
Anxious behaviour

Drug Addiction Hampers Professional Life

Drug addiction has an adverse impact on a person’s brain. People lose their self control. They become so addicted to drugs that all they can think about is consuming them. This is the only thing that interests them. They are unable to concentrate on work and lose interest in it. Even if they try to work they feel lethargic and withdrawn.

Drugs have an impact on their cognitive skills, analytical skills and decision making power. This impacts their professional life adversely. Drug addicts also display irrational behaviour. They grow aggressive, develop impaired judgement and become impulsive. Such behaviour is unacceptable in an office setting. It puts them in a bad light and bars the chances of professional growth.

Drug Addiction Ruins Personal Relationships

A person addicted to drugs loves the company of those who take drugs and tries to spend most of his time with them. He is no longer interested in his family and friends. Often distances himself from them. He becomes irritable and aggressive. This leads to frequent arguments and quarrels which disturb his family life as well as his equation with his friends. A person addicted to drugs does not only spoil his own life but also of those around him.

Below are the list of related essay available at IL

Essay on Drug Addiction FAQs

How do you write a drug essay.

To write a drug essay, start with an introduction about the topic's importance, include information about various types of drugs, their effects, and the consequences of drug abuse. Discuss prevention, treatment, and societal impact. Conclude with your thoughts or recommendations.

What is drug addiction in one sentence?

Drug addiction is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and use, despite harmful consequences.

What is drug addiction class 9?

In a class 9 context, drug addiction is typically introduced as the harmful and unhealthy dependence on substances like drugs or alcohol, which can lead to physical, mental, and social problems.

Please select class

Election 2024
Entertainment
Newsletters
Photography
AP Buyline Personal Finance
AP Buyline Shopping
Press Releases
Israel-Hamas War
Russia-Ukraine War
Global elections
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East
Delegate Tracker
AP & Elections
2024 Paris Olympic Games
Auto Racing
Movie reviews
Book reviews
Financial Markets
Business Highlights
Financial wellness
Artificial Intelligence
Social Media

An Olympic-sized fight erupts among anti-doping officials, and it’s just getting started

Witold Banka, president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), attends a press conference at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Thursday, July 25, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Gene Sykes, president of the US Olympic and Paralympic committee speaks as he presents Salt Lake City’s bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, during the 142nd IOC session at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

Allison Schmitt, former Olympic athlete, right, listens as Travis Tygart, Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, left, testifies during a House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing examining Anti-Doping Measures in Advance of the 2024 Olympics, on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, June 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Copy Link copied

PARIS (AP) — The stream of threats, recriminations and anti-doping innuendo flowed freely again Thursday when tensions over a U.S. law designed to combat drugs in sports escalated on the eve of the Paris Olympics.

It’s a fight that’s been simmering for a decade, sparked by Russia’s brazen doping scandal at the Sochi Olympics. The reaction from the World Anti-Doping Agency and IOC was criticized as too weak by many, including the United States. So much so, that the U.S. passed a law in 2020 giving federal authorities power to investigate sports doping and cover-ups.

After details emerged about 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for a banned substance - Chinese authorities blamed it on contamination from a hotel kitchen - but none were suspended and some went on to win medals at the Tokyo Olympics, the U.S. launched an investigation.

The latest round of backlash played out in a trio of news conferences in Paris, the highlight of which came when leaders at WADA suggested they might sanction one of their biggest critics, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, over the law.

“As a global regulator, one of our duties is to make sure our stakeholders are following our regulations and rules, and that the national legislation is in accordance with the world anti-doping code,” WADA president Witold Banka explained.

While some tried to calm things down, others could see a worst-case scenario: that the U.S. not be allowed to host big-time events such as the Olympics in the future.

Banka’s statement came a day after the International Olympic Committee awarded the 2034 Winter Games to Salt Lake City, but cast a pall over that celebration by extracting a promise that organizers pressure U.S. lawmakers to scuttle the law, along with a related investigation into the Chinese doping case.

A law that passed unanimously

Chances of that are slim — the American Congress passed that bill in 2020 without a dissenting vote — so another strategy would be to go after USADA.

If WADA determines the law, called the Rodchenkov Act, doesn’t adhere to the rules, it could start the process of finding USADA in noncompliance.

That, in turn, could trigger sanctions, which can jeopardize America’s ability to host international events. It’s the same treatment WADA handed to Russia’s anti-doping agency during that country’s long-running drug scandal.

Congress recently held a hearing about the Chinese doping scandal and there have been suggestions that the U.S. government might withhold its annual funding from WADA.

The chair and ranking member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee — Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) and Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.) — released a statement.

“It speaks volumes that the IOC would demand a one-sided contract condition to protect WADA rather than work together to ensure it is fulfilling its mission to protect clean sport,” they said.

Threatening USADA

The mere threat of putting USADA on a noncompliant list marks the latest broadside in a mushrooming exchange of rhetoric.

USADA’s CEO, Travis Tygart struck back.

“You know it’s a broken system when WADA ... threatens a compliance case against USADA for a U.S. law enacted by Congress that has cleaned up sport consistent with the WADA rules and has been in existence for several years,” he said in a statement to The Associated Press.

At his own news conference in Paris, USOPC chair Gene Sykes, who was just made a member of the IOC, said he hopes this pattern of “throwing rocks at each other” would calm down soon.

“I think the tempers between WADA and USADA as reflected in the statements that go back and forth between the two of them are unfortunately just too emotional,” Sykes said.

Some athletes, including Caeleb Dressel, don’t trust the system

World Aquatics, which runs swimming, held its own news conference, where swimmers and executives were asked about the Chinese case.

American swimmer Caeleb Dressel was asked if he had confidence in the anti-doping system.

“No. Not really.” Dressel said. “I don’t really think they’ve given us enough evidence to support them in how this case was handled.”

A few seats away was World Aquatics executive director Brent Nowicki who, as the AP reported earlier this month, recently received a subpoena from U.S. investigators as part of their probe into the China case.

“We have to regain his trust and those athletes’ trust who share that same opinion,” Nowicki said. “I’d like you to ask that same question of Caeleb in L.A. (at the 2028 Olympics). My hope, my goal, is that his mind changes.”

Some IOC leaders are worried about traveling to the U.S.

The Nowicki subpoena is part of the first known use of the Rodchenkov Act for an international incident.

It illustrates the wide net U.S. investigators might cast to fight doping — wide enough that it seems some folks are avoiding the United States, altogether. For instance, WADA moved a conference it had planned for this fall from New York to Montreal.

“I don’t think I would share my private travel schedule in a press conference,” WADA director general Olivier Niggli said, drawing laughs, when asked if he had plans to visit the U.S.

The law was passed to allow American authorities to prosecute doping conspiracies in any sports event involving U.S. athletes — which includes the Olympics and pretty much every major competition around the world.

WADA has long lobbied against this law, specifically its “extraterritorial” clause, which it says gives U.S. authorities a separate and inappropriate role in enforcing anti-doping rules against foreigners.

“It’s highly incorrect that one country tries to impose jurisdiction on anti-doping decisions on the rest of the world,” Banka said.

Salt Lake City caught in the middle

None of this was on the radar of leaders in Salt Lake City, who came to Paris expecting a celebration, and maybe even a pat on the back for offering to host the Winter Games — an event cities aren’t lining up to underwrite anymore.

SLC organizing president Fraser Bullock said despite the language in the contract “in my mind, there’s zero doubt” that Utah will host the Games, as promised.

“For us, we feel bad that we did get pulled into it,” Bullock said. “But we understand that’s an issue that has to be addressed. It’s just very unfortunate timing.”

___ AP National Writer Paul Newberry contributed.

AP Summer Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games

Skip to main content
Skip to FDA Search
Skip to in this section menu
Skip to footer links

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Search
Menu
News & Events for Human Drugs
Nonprescription Analgesic/Antipyretic Drug Development in Children 2 to Less Than 12 Years of Age - 11/15/2024

Public | Mixed

Event Title Nonprescription Analgesic/Antipyretic Drug Development in Children 2 to Less Than 12 Years of Age November 15, 2024

10903 New Hampshire Ave Building 31, Room 1503 Silver Spring , MD 20993 United States

Organized By

CDER Office of New Drugs, M-CERSI

The Food and Drug Administration is announcing the following public workshop entitled "Nonprescription Analgesic/Antipyretic Drug Development in Children 2 to Less Than 12 Years of Age." Presently, marketed nonprescription drug products for pain (analgesics) and fever (antipyretics) for children 2 to less than 12 years of age are primarily limited to drug products containing acetaminophen or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen as active ingredients. These pediatric products are indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains due to the common cold, sore throat, flu, headache, toothache, and fever reduction. New acetaminophen and NSAID-containing drug products may offer different characteristics than that of currently available products. However, it is unclear if there are pediatric subpopulations in children 2 to less than 12 years of age who may benefit from new acetaminophen and NSAID-containing drug products. Additionally, there is ambiguity regarding the extent to which expanding the nonprescription analgesic/antipyretic treatment options for this age group might lead to consumer confusion, considering the availability of multiple products containing similar ingredients for the same indication.

The goal of the workshop is to discuss the current nonprescription analgesic/antipyretic treatment options available for children 2 to less than 12 years of age and the development needs for additional oral nonprescription treatment options containing acetaminophen and/or NSAIDs for pain, fever, or both for the same pediatric population.

Topics for Discussion

The topics we will be exploring are:

the necessity for developing new nonprescription analgesics and antipyretics containing acetaminophen or NSAIDs, either alone or in combination to reduce pain and fever,
drug characteristics that represent a therapeutic benefit over current treatment options
the pediatric subpopulations (e.g., age groups) that would benefit from these new nonprescription drugs for the already established labeled uses (for temporary relief for minor aches and pains due to the common cold, sore throat, flu, headache, toothache, fever reduction)
the potential unintended consequences of introducing more products containing similar ingredients for the same indication in this age group, particularly in relation to consumer confusion

Please check back for an updated agenda.

Visiting the FDA Campus (If held at FDA Campus)

Entrance for the public workshop participants (non-FDA employees) is through Building 1, where routine security check procedures will be performed. For parking and security information, please refer to Public Meeting Information , Getting to the FDA , and Visitor Parking and Campus Map .

Virtual Attendance Information

This meeting will be hybrid. The Zoom link will be provided to all registered attendees in a calendar invite the before the meeting.

Food & Drink

Refreshments and sandwiches are available for purchase. Attendees may bring their own food and drink; however, the FDA cannot guarantee the use of a refrigerator or microwave. Restaurants near the FDA White Oak campus are available, but before leaving, meeting attendees should consider the amount of time needed to return to campus and go through security screening.

Accessibility

The FDA will make every effort to accommodate persons with physical disabilities or special needs at public meetings. If you require accommodations due to a disability, email [email protected] at least 14 days before a public meeting. The FDA White Oak campus and FDA shuttle are generally accessible to people with physical disabilities.

For additional details, contact the FDAs CDER/OND/Public Meeting Support Team at [email protected] .

What Kamala Harris has said so far on key issues in her campaign

As she ramps up her nascent presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is revealing how she will address the key issues facing the nation.

In speeches and rallies, she has voiced support for continuing many of President Joe Biden’s measures, such as lowering drug costs , forgiving student loan debt and eliminating so-called junk fees. But Harris has made it clear that she has her own views on some key matters, particularly Israel’s treatment of Gazans in its war with Hamas.

In a departure from her presidential run in 2020, the Harris campaign has confirmed that she’s moved away from many of her more progressive stances, such as her interest in a single-payer health insurance system and a ban on fracking.

Harris is also expected to put her own stamp and style on matters ranging from abortion to the economy to immigration, as she aims to walk a fine line of taking credit for the administration’s accomplishments while not being jointly blamed by voters for its shortcomings.

Her early presidential campaign speeches have offered insights into her priorities, though she’s mainly voiced general talking points and has yet to release more nuanced plans. Like Biden, she intends to contrast her vision for America with that of former President Donald Trump. ( See Trump’s campaign promises here .)

“In this moment, I believe we face a choice between two different visions for our nation: one focused on the future, the other focused on the past,” she told members of the historically Black sorority Zeta Phi Beta at an event in Indianapolis in late July. “And with your support, I am fighting for our nation’s future.”

Here’s what we know about Harris’ views:

Harris took on the lead role of championing abortion rights for the administration after Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022. This past January, she started a “ reproductive freedoms tour ” to multiple states, including a stop in Minnesota thought to be the first by a sitting US president or vice president at an abortion clinic .

On abortion access, Harris embraced more progressive policies than Biden in the 2020 campaign, as a candidate criticizing his previous support for the Hyde Amendment , a measure that blocks federal funds from being used for most abortions.

Policy experts suggested that although Harris’ current policies on abortion and reproductive rights may not differ significantly from Biden’s, as a result of her national tour and her own focus on maternal health , she may be a stronger messenger.

High prices are a top concern for many Americans who are struggling to afford the cost of living after a spell of steep inflation. Many voters give Biden poor marks for his handling of the economy, and Harris may also face their wrath.

In her early campaign speeches, Harris has echoed many of the same themes as Biden, saying she wants to give Americans more opportunities to get ahead. She’s particularly concerned about making care – health care, child care, elder care and family leave – more affordable and available.

Harris promised at a late July rally to continue the Biden administration’s drive to eliminate so-called “junk fees” and to fully disclose all charges, such as for events, lodging and car rentals. In early August, the administration proposed a rule that would ban airlines from charging parents extra fees to have their kids sit next to them.

On day one, I will take on price gouging and bring down costs. We will ban more of those hidden fees and surprise late charges that banks and other companies use to pad their profits.”

Since becoming vice president, Harris has taken more moderate positions, but a look at her 2020 campaign promises reveals a more progressive bent than Biden.

As a senator and 2020 presidential candidate, Harris proposed providing middle-class and working families with a refundable tax credit of up to $6,000 a year (per couple) to help keep up with living expenses. Titled the LIFT the Middle Class Act, or Livable Incomes for Families Today, the measure would have cost at the time an estimated $3 trillion over 10 years.

Unlike a typical tax credit, the bill would allow taxpayers to receive the benefit – up to $500 – on a monthly basis so families don’t have to turn to payday loans with very high interest rates.

As a presidential candidate, Harris also advocated for raising the corporate income tax rate to 35%, where it was before the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that Trump and congressional Republicans pushed through Congress reduced the rate to 21%. That’s higher than the 28% Biden has proposed.

Affordable housing was also on Harris’ radar. As a senator, she introduced the Rent Relief Act, which would establish a refundable tax credit for renters who annually spend more than 30% of their gross income on rent and utilities. The amount of the credit would range from 25% to 100% of the excess rent, depending on the renter’s income.

Harris called housing a human right and said in a 2019 news release on the bill that every American deserves to have basic security and dignity in their own home.

Consumer debt

Hefty debt loads, which weigh on people’s finances and hurt their ability to buy homes, get car loans or start small businesses, are also an area of interest to Harris.

As vice president, she has promoted the Biden administration’s initiatives on student debt, which have so far forgiven more than $168 billion for nearly 4.8 million borrowers . In mid-July, Harris said in a post on X that “nearly 950,000 public servants have benefitted” from student debt forgiveness, compared with only 7,000 when Biden was inaugurated.

A potential Harris administration could keep that momentum going – though some of Biden’s efforts have gotten tangled up in litigation, such as a program aimed at cutting monthly student loan payments for roughly 3 million borrowers enrolled in a repayment plan the administration implemented last year.

The vice president has also been a leader in the White House efforts to ban medical debt from credit reports, noting that those with medical debt are no less likely to repay a loan than those who don’t have unpaid medical bills.

In a late July statement praising North Carolina’s move to relieve the medical debt of about 2 million residents, Harris said that she is “committed to continuing to relieve the burden of medical debt and creating a future where every person has the opportunity to build wealth and thrive.”

Health care

Harris, who has had shifting stances on health care in the past, confirmed in late July through her campaign that she no longer supports a single-payer health care system .

During her 2020 campaign, Harris advocated for shifting the US to a government-backed health insurance system but stopped short of wanting to completely eliminate private insurance.

The measure called for transitioning to a Medicare-for-All-type system over 10 years but continuing to allow private insurance companies to offer Medicare plans.

The proposal would not have raised taxes on the middle class to pay for the coverage expansion. Instead, it would raise the needed funds by taxing Wall Street trades and transactions and changing the taxation of offshore corporate income.

When it comes to reducing drug costs, Harris previously proposed allowing the federal government to set “a fair price” for any drug sold at a cheaper price in any economically comparable country, including Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Japan or Australia. If manufacturers were found to be price gouging, the government could import their drugs from abroad or, in egregious cases, use its existing but never-used “march-in” authority to license a drug company’s patent to a rival that would produce the medication at a lower cost.

Harris has been a champion on climate and environmental justice for decades. As California’s attorney general, Harris sued big oil companies like BP and ConocoPhillips, and investigated Exxon Mobil for its role in climate change disinformation. While in the Senate, she sponsored the Green New Deal resolution.

During her 2020 campaign, she enthusiastically supported a ban on fracking — but a Harris campaign official said in late July that she no longer supports such a ban.

Fracking is the process of using liquid to free natural gas from rock formations – and the primary mode for extracting gas for energy in battleground Pennsylvania. During a September 2019 climate crisis town hall hosted by CNN, she said she would start “with what we can do on Day 1 around public lands.” She walked that back later when she became Biden’s running mate.

Biden has been the most pro-climate president in history, and climate advocates find Harris to be an exciting candidate in her own right. Democrats and climate activists are planning to campaign on the stark contrasts between Harris and Trump , who vowed to push America decisively back to fossil fuels, promising to unwind Biden’s climate and clean energy legacy and pull America out of its global climate commitments.

If elected, one of the biggest climate goals Harris would have to craft early in her administration is how much the US would reduce its climate pollution by 2035 – a requirement of the Paris climate agreement .

Immigration

Harris has quickly started trying to counter Trump’s attacks on her immigration record.

Her campaign released a video in late July citing Harris’ support for increasing the number of Border Patrol agents and Trump’s successful push to scuttle a bipartisan immigration deal that included some of the toughest border security measures in recent memory.

The vice president has changed her position on border control since her 2020 campaign, when she suggested that Democrats needed to “critically examine” the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, after being asked whether she sided with those in the party arguing to abolish the department.

In June of this year, the White House announced a crackdown on asylum claims meant to continue reducing crossings at the US-Mexico border – a policy that Harris’ campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, indicated in late July to CBS News would continue under a Harris administration.

Trump’s attacks stem from Biden having tasked Harris with overseeing diplomatic efforts in Central America in March 2021. While Harris focused on long-term fixes, the Department of Homeland Security remained responsible for overseeing border security.

She has only occasionally talked about her efforts as the situation along the US-Mexico border became a political vulnerability for Biden. But she put her own stamp on the administration’s efforts, engaging the private sector.

Harris pulled together the Partnership for Central America, which has acted as a liaison between companies and the US government. Her team and the partnership are closely coordinating on initiatives that have led to job creation in the region. Harris has also engaged directly with foreign leaders in the region.

Experts credit Harris’ ability to secure private-sector investments as her most visible action in the region to date but have cautioned about the long-term durability of those investments.

Israel-Hamas

The Israel-Hamas war is the most fraught foreign policy issue facing the country and has spurred a multitude of protests around the US since it began in October.

After meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in late July, Harris gave a forceful and notable speech about the situation in Gaza.

We cannot look away in the face of these tragedies. We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering. And I will not be silent.”

Harris echoed Biden’s repeated comments about the “ironclad support” and “unwavering commitment” to Israel. The country has a right to defend itself, she said, while noting, “how it does so, matters.”

However, the empathy she expressed regarding the Palestinian plight and suffering was far more forceful than what Biden has said on the matter in recent months. Harris mentioned twice the “serious concern” she expressed to Netanyahu about the civilian deaths in Gaza, the humanitarian situation and destruction she called “catastrophic” and “devastating.”

She went on to describe “the images of dead children and desperate hungry people fleeing for safety, sometimes displaced for the second, third or fourth time.”

Harris emphasized the need to get the Israeli hostages back from Hamas captivity, naming the eight Israeli-American hostages – three of whom have been killed.

But when describing the ceasefire deal in the works, she didn’t highlight the hostage for prisoner exchange or aid to be let into Gaza. Instead, she singled out the fact that the deal stipulates the withdrawal by the Israeli military from populated areas in the first phase before withdrawing “entirely” from Gaza before “a permanent end to the hostilities.”

Harris didn’t preside over Netanyahu’s speech to Congress in late July, instead choosing to stick with a prescheduled trip to a sorority event in Indiana.

Harris is committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, having met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at least six times and announcing last month $1.5 billion for energy assistance, humanitarian needs and other aid for the war-torn country.

At the Munich Security Conference earlier this year, Harris said: “I will make clear President Joe Biden and I stand with Ukraine. In partnership with supportive, bipartisan majorities in both houses of the United States Congress, we will work to secure critical weapons and resources that Ukraine so badly needs. And let me be clear: The failure to do so would be a gift to Vladimir Putin.”

More broadly, NATO is central to our approach to global security. For President Biden and me, our sacred commitment to NATO remains ironclad. And I do believe, as I have said before, NATO is the greatest military alliance the world has ever known.”

Police funding

The Harris campaign has also walked back the “defund the police” sentiment that Harris voiced in 2020. What she meant is she supports being “tough and smart on crime,” Mitch Landrieu, national co-chair for the Harris campaign and former mayor of New Orleans, told CNN’s Pamela Brown in late July.

In the midst of nationwide 2020 protests sparked by George Floyd’s murder by a Minneapolis police officer, Harris voiced support for the “defund the police” movement, which argues for redirecting funds from law enforcement to social services. Throughout that summer, Harris supported the movement and called for demilitarizing police departments.

Democrats largely backed away from calls to defund the police after Republicans attempted to tie the movement to increases in crime during the 2022 midterm elections.

Additional credits

Skip to main content
Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

2024 Paris Olympics

How To Watch
Storylines To Follow

Phryge, the mascot of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, cheers at the women's group B match between the U.S. and Zambia on Thursday. Marc Atkins/Getty Images hide caption

The Paris Olympics are finally here. More than 10,000 athletes have descended on the French capital for more than two weeks of competition, patriotism and potential drama. NPR’s own Olympics team will bring you recaps, coverage and color — including on the ground in Paris — online and on air over the next few weeks.

U.S. lawmakers threaten funding for sport doping program over China Olympic scandal

Witold Banka, president of the World Anti-Doping Agency, attends a kickoff press conference on July 25, 2024 at the Summer Olympics in Paris. Michel Euler/AP hide caption

NPR is in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics. For more of our coverage from the games head to our latest updates.

PARIS — A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers on Tuesday introduced a bill that could cut future American funding for the global sports anti-doping system unless sweeping reforms are made.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) receives $3.7 million a year in U.S. funding. The organization faces growing criticism for its handling of a case involving 23 Chinese swimmers .

Yufei Zhang of Team China competing during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Zhang won four medals in Tokyo including two gold and now is among 23 Chinese swimmers embroiled in a doping scandal.

'Ban them all.' With Paris Games looming, Chinese doping scandal rocks Olympic sport

"I think WADA looks really bad here, I don't think their position is sustainable," said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), one of the bill's co-sponsors.

'WADA unfortunately failed to do its job."

If made into law, the measure would give the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy authority to withhold funding from WADA if the organization fails to implement "governance reforms."

WADA officials now acknowledge they learned of the positive doping tests in 2021 ahead of the Tokyo Summer Games .

They accepted China's explanation that the athletes ingested banned substances accidentally. No independent investigation was conducted.

The doping watchdog organization then kept the matter secret until it was revealed in April of this year by the New York Times .

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach speaks during the 142nd session of the IOC in Paris on Wednesday, ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Olympic officials try to crush U.S. probes of China doping, threaten Salt Lake Games

The Times has subsequently reported two other instances of positive sports doping tests involving Chinese swimmers that were never made public by WADA.

Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) said her office attempted to communicate directly with WADA officials, demanding an explanation of their handling of the drug tests.

"Instead of working with us to insure an even playing field, WADA has worked against us at every turn," Blackburn said.

The measure, if passed would allow the White House to withhold money — roughly 8% of WADA's $46 million annual budget — unless reforms are made.

Lawmakers at the press conference noted the head of the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy, Dr. Rahul Gupta, sits on WADA's executive committee , but was kept in the dark about the China case until shortly before news of the scandal broke.

Fei Liwei, of China, competes during a heat in the men's 400-meter freestyle at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Saturday, July 27, 2024, in Paris, France. He's one of 11 Chinese swimmers competing in Paris who face questions over a 2021 sports doping case. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

Chinese swimmers at Paris Olympics deny doping accusations as diplomatic row grows

"When there's a coverup, that's a huge problem," said Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.). "We're bringing things to light."

Eleven Chinese athletes implicated in the case are scheduled to compete at the Paris Summer Olympics .

Late on Tuesday, WADA officials released a detailed statement, acknowledging that even more athletes have tested positive for banned substances in China, including cases last year that were never revealed.

According to WADA, the cases were all thoroughly investigated by China's anti-doping agency, which concluded that all the athletes were exposed accidentally to banned substances in tainted food.

"WADA thoroughly reviewed the cases in early 2024 with all due skepticism and concluded that there was no evidence to challenge contaminated meat as the source of the positive tests," the statement said .

But WADA appeared to acknowledge that it conducted no independent investigation of these cases - and never disclosed any of the positive drug tests publicly.

"The politicization of anti-doping continues," WADA said, suggesting that journalists were treating the organization unfairly.

"Gold medal in blackmail"

Still, Tuesday's press conference was a clear signal from American lawmakers they're not daunted by threats by the International Olympic Committee.

Last week, the IOC warned it might withdraw the granting of the 2034 Winter Olympics to Salt Lake City, Utah, if the United States continues to pursue multiple probes into WADA's operations.

Speaking in Paris, the head of WADA Witold Banka supported the IOC's move and described U.S. concerns as part of a power play designed to give American officials more clout.

"It’s highly incorrect that one country try to impose jurisdiction on antidoping decisions on the rest of the world," Banka said.

On Tuesday, Rep. Moolenaar called the IOC's threats over the Salt Lake Games "the gold medal in blackmail."

Sen. Blackburn also blasted international sports officials for trying to "strongarm the U.S. into dropping an FBI investigation into the doping scandal."

"Our message is simple, we will not be silenced for trying to promote fair play," she said.

FILE - The Chinese and the Olympic flag wave during the opening ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics, Feb. 4, 2022, in Beijing. In the two years before the World Anti-Doping Agency cleared 23 Chinese swimmers of doping allegations, that country’s government contributed nearly $2 million in additional funding to WADA programs, including one designed to strengthen the agency’s investigations and intelligence unit. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek, file)

The Chinese and the Olympic flags wave during the opening ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics, Feb. 4, 2022, in Beijing. In the two years before the World Anti-Doping Agency cleared 23 Chinese swimmers of doping allegations, that country’s government contributed nearly $2 million in additional funding to WADA programs, including one designed to strengthen the agency’s investigations and intelligence unit. Petr David Josek/AP hide caption

A sports scandal tangled up in fraying U.S.-China relationship

This doping scandal is playing out while Olympic athletes are competing in Paris. It's also unfolding against a backdrop of growing distrust between the U.S. and China.

U.S. lawmakers today repeatedly suggested that China is wielding improper influence over WADA.

"I feel like that threat [to cancel the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics] was written in Beijing," said Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.).

The Chinese and the Olympic flag wave during the opening ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. The World Anti-Doping Agency cleared 23 Chinese swimmers of doping allegations despite positive tests for banned substances, allowing them to compete in the 2021 Tokyo Games.

Justice Department opens a criminal probe of the Chinese Olympic doping scandal

"While we might not be able to bring the (Chinese Communist Party) officials responsible...we can hold their foreign co-conspirators accountable," said Rep. Moolenaar.

In its statement, WADA officials complained that they were being "unfairly caught in the middle of geopolitical tensions between superpowers."

Travis Tygart, head of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, the sports-doping group that monitors American athletes, said in an interview Tuesday that he too believes Chinese officials are influencing WADA inappropriately.

"Why is China being given special treatment?" Tygart said. "Why doesn't China have to announce these cases as every other country has done? Even if it is accidental contamination, why doesn't WADA investigate?"

WADA officials have rejected these accusations and say they handled the Chinese doping cases appropriately. Chinese athletes competing in Paris also denied taking performance-enhancing drugs.

"Our Chinese government on our team always tells us we have the clean model and the clean results and our results right now are based on hard work and training," Chinese freestyle swimmer Fei Liwei told reporters on Saturday.

Michael Phelps, former Olympic athlete, testifies during a House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations hearing examining Anti-Doping Measures in Advance of the 2024 Olympics, on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, June 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Former U.S. Olympian Michael Phelps testified during a Congressional hearing examining Anti-Doping Measures in advance of the 2024 Summer Olympics on June 25, 2024, in Washington. Rod Lamkey/AP hide caption

U.S. athletes, however, have voiced anger and distrust over WADA's handling of the case. Speaking at a House hearing last month , retired Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps said eroding trust in the anti-doping system could cripple the Olympic movement.

"If we continue to let this slide any farther, the Olympic games might not even be there," Phelps testified.

Paris Olympics 2024

Supported by

New York’s Preparations for a Bird Flu Pandemic Rely on a Single Drug

New York State’s stockpile of antiviral medications for flu contains only one drug, Tamiflu, leaving no fallback plan.

Share full article

Birds take off over a yellow grassy field.

By Joseph Goldstein

New York’s plan for confronting bird flu if it begins spreading among people relies heavily on a vast stockpile of flu treatment medicine. But experts worry the stockpile is missing a key tool.

New York has only one type of flu antiviral drug, Tamiflu, which might prove less effective than hoped against a pandemic strain of bird flu, some experts say. There is another antiviral that might work, even if Tamiflu doesn’t — a drug called baloxavir marboxil.

And yet the state has not stored a single dose of it in case of emergency.

“There could be an Achilles’ heel here,” said Dr. Sean T. Liu, an infectious disease expert at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan.

Given the uncertainty about how bird flu might evolve and what treatments might ultimately work best, some public health experts worry that New York might have too much riding on a single drug, when an alternative is available.

“It is always wise, when there are unknown variables, to have more than one therapeutic option in your toolbox,” said Dr. Howard Zucker, the former state health commissioner, who led the Health Department during the coronavirus pandemic and oversaw the state’s epidemic stockpile until 2021.

The next pandemic, some experts worry, could land soon in the form of H5N1, a flu virus that has long circulated in wild birds, occasionally causing outbreaks at poultry farms. The virus can infect people who come into contact with diseased birds and has killed about half of the 1,000 or so people known to have contracted it.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in .

Want all of The Times? Subscribe .

Drug Abuse and Addiction Essay

To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
As a template for you assignment

Article Summary

Critical reflections.

In the following paper, I have my purpose to summarize the article “From an Attempted Suicide to Salvation, Then to Helping Others” by Mathew Warren printed in New York Times not long ago. In addition, I will offer my comments concerning selected aspects of the article’s importance and will explain my choice of this particular piece of information about the issues of substance abuse and addiction and families.

The article tells about Sheaneen Holimon, a courageous and spirited lady who knows well what the problem of drug addiction is about. After years of fighting with this serious problem, she was so distressed on the reason of her inability to quit this maleficent predilection that she wanted to commit suicide. Still, Ms. Holimon was able to see a miracle eventually as she believed in her future and valued her family.

Ms. Holimon explains that her father’s conduct made her a very unhappy child and caused her to take drugs at a very early age. By the age of fifteen, she was a serious drug addict; however, she succeeded to graduate from high school and find a job as a secretary. Nonetheless, Ms. Holimon did not manage to preserve her working place on the reason of becoming a heavy drunkard and drug addict. She had a small period of revival when she gave birth to her son. Sadly, this period did not continue for long, and she returned to her dangerous lifestyle. The same situation repeated after the birth of her daughter.

Once, she reflected on her entire life, her two little children, long years wasted on the reason of this disastrous lifestyle, and made a wakeup call of last hope to her mother. Then she joined a rehabilitation program. That was not a short experience and not an easy one. Ms. Holimon fought courageously, and eventually, she managed to have certain success. This, in turn, motivated her to help others. Nowadays, though Sheaneen Holimon is still under some rehabilitation therapy by herself, this spirited lady has a significant experience of helping others and overcoming a lot of difficulties for this sake including material ones. To conclude on this encouraging experience, it should be mentioned that Ms. Holimon has succeeded in reviving some of her family relations, and she is still putting a lot of effort to get ahead in this area to the fullest extent possible.

The primary purpose of this article seems to inform the readers about success that was achieved by a courageous lady who strives to conquer her drug addiction throughout her entire life and has managed to have certain achievements. I have chosen this article as I believe it contains an encouraging and powerful message for all people who want to conquer their exhausting battle with drug addiction. The article’s importance cannot be underestimated; every person facing such serious problem as drug addiction, or who has a relative or any other close person with such a terrible problem knows how vital it is to know from some other person’s experience that it is possible to win the fight with this evil.

The article raises the very serious issues that are rife with the problem of drug addiction and family ties. It teaches that the most terrible things in life can be overcome if only the person really wants it and works hard along with others who kindly offer their professional assistance.

Tobacco Consumption and Obesity
Leaders and the Drug Use
YMCA of Metro Atlanta-PD Gladiators Partnership
The Crucial Role of Courageous Followers in Effective Leadership
Overview of Ruslan and Lyudmila
Drug Treatment Programs for Criminal Offenders
The Public Debate on Drugs
Methamphetamine Epidemic in the US
Theoretical Models and Research Methods of 19-Years-Olds` Behavior
Drug Issue in “America’s Unjust Drug War” by Michael Huemer
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, January 12). Drug Abuse and Addiction. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-abuse-and-addiction/

"Drug Abuse and Addiction." IvyPanda , 12 Jan. 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/drug-abuse-and-addiction/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'Drug Abuse and Addiction'. 12 January.

IvyPanda . 2022. "Drug Abuse and Addiction." January 12, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-abuse-and-addiction/.

1. IvyPanda . "Drug Abuse and Addiction." January 12, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-abuse-and-addiction/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Drug Abuse and Addiction." January 12, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-abuse-and-addiction/.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

The Big Story
Newsletters
Steven Levy's Plaintext Column
WIRED Classics from the Archive
WIRED Insider
WIRED Consulting

The Race for the Next Ozempic

Image may contain Art Collage Person Purple and Baby

In the 1980s, researchers identified a hormone in the human gut called GLP-1 that triggers the release of insulin, which controls blood sugar levels. The discovery would eventually launch a new class of diabetes drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists , the first of which was approved in 2005 .

The drugs not only kept blood sugar in check. Curiously, they also seemed to suppress appetite, and some people taking them lost a modest amount of weight. The revelation led the US Food and Drug Administration to approve the first GLP-1 drug for weight loss in 2014 . Called liraglutide and sold under the brand name Saxenda, the weekly injectable led to a nearly 3 percent reduction in body weight on average in trial participants who took it.

By then, Novo Nordisk, the maker of Saxenda, was already working on a better GLP-1 . This new drug, semaglutide, was first approved for diabetes in 2017 under the brand name Ozempic and then in 2021 for weight loss as Wegovy. In trials of the drug, participants who received Wegovy lost around 15 percent of their initial body weight —a total game changer.

Hot on the heels of semaglutide is Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide, approved as Mounjaro in 2022 for diabetes and as Zepbound in 2023 for weight management . In studies of Zepbound, patients taking the highest dose lost around 21 percent of their body weight . In a head-to-head comparison of Wegovy and Zepbound published earlier this month , Zepbound was found more likely to lead to significant weight loss.

These drugs are now wildly popular, in shortage as a result, and hugely profitable for the companies making them. Their success has sparked a frenzy among pharmaceutical companies looking for the next blockbuster weight-loss drug . Researchers are now racing to develop new anti-obesity medications that are more effective, more convenient, or produce fewer side effects than the ones currently on the market. The existing drugs can cause nausea, headaches, and other unpleasant side effects that lead some people to stop taking them .

They have other downsides too. In the United States, they can cost more than $1,000 a month and aren’t always covered by insurance. They have to be injected under the skin once a week. And while most people who stay on them see positive results, others don’t lose much weight at all . Not to mention ongoing shortages of GLP-1s are making it hard for patients to start and continue taking them as prescribed.

Having more drugs on the market would mean more choices for patients—and more profits for the companies selling them. “It’s an extraordinarily exciting and busy time in the field of obesity,” says Darren McGuire, a cardiologist and professor of internal medicine at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Semaglutide and tirzepatide work by activating GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas to stimulate the production of insulin, which helps to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. These drugs also slow down the emptying of the stomach and interact with GLP-1 receptors in the brain to tamp down hunger. As a result, people tend to eat less and have fewer food cravings while taking them.

It’s possible that tirzepatide is slightly more effective because it’s a dual receptor agonist. In addition to GLP-1, it also activates receptors of GIP, another hormone involved in regulating blood sugar and appetite. But McGuire says GIP isn’t well understood, and it’s not clear whether the addition of GIP is driving the increased weight loss or if tirzepatide is just better at activating GLP-1. “We just don’t have a way to unravel that biology right now,” he says.

I Spent Two Months Testing Cold-Plunge Pools. I Think I’m Addicted

That hasn’t stopped pharma companies from pursuing GIP as a target. Viking Pharmaceuticals is also developing a drug that activates both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. The San Diego company is testing both an injectable and pill form. In a trial of the injectable version, participants lost nearly 15 percent of their weight over 13 weeks. And data released in March from an early-stage trial showed that people who took Viking’s daily pill version lost around 5 percent of their weight on average in just a month.

Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly , and Pfizer are all working on their own GLP-1 pills. Some patients may prefer taking a daily pill over a weekly injection. Pills are also easier to manufacture than the injector pens used to administer Wegovy and Zepbound. The pens also have to be refrigerated.

“All of that makes these drugs more expensive,” says Laura Davisson, director of the weight management program at the West Virginia University Health System. “If we could get oral versions on the market, maybe the prices would come down.”

Amgen, meanwhile, thinks a less frequently taken medication could be convenient for some patients. The company is working on an injectable drug called MariTide that would be given just once a month. The drug also targets GLP-1 and GIP, but instead of stimulating GIP receptors, MariTide blocks them. It’s not entirely clear why both stimulating and blocking these receptors seems to promote weight loss.

Amgen’s approach is based on research showing that mice that lack GIP, as well as people with mutations in this receptor, have lower body weight. In results published in February , people taking MariTide in an early-stage trial lost up to more than 14 percent of their body weight in 12 weeks.

Eli Lilly is hoping to make an even more potent drug than Zepbound by adding a third mechanism involved in weight loss. It’s working on an investigational drug dubbed retatrutide that targets the receptors for GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon, the latter of which can help break down fat stores. In trial data published last year , retatrutide helped people lose more than 17 percent of their body weight, or 41 pounds, after 24 weeks. At 48 weeks, participants had lost an average of 24 percent of their body weight, or about 58 pounds—more than any other drug on the market.

“We have not seen results like this before in a trial of less than one-year duration with an anti-obesity medication,” said Ania Jastreboff, an endocrinologist and weight specialist at the Yale School of Medicine during a press conference last year at the American Diabetes Association annual meeting.

Davisson was also wowed by the results. “The data is absolutely amazing,” she says, adding to the evidence that targeting additional receptors thought to be involved in the brain’s appetite centers may boost drug effects.

Other companies are pursuing drugs with different targets that could be used on their own or in combination with GLP-1 drugs. One of those, Denmark-based firm Zealand Pharma, is developing an injectable drug called petrelintide that mimics a hormone called amylin that’s produced in the pancreas and secreted alongside insulin after a meal. Amylin seems to reduce the amount of food people eat by signaling a sense of fullness to the brain.

In June, Zealand released positive data from an early trial showing that a high dose of the drug helped people lose nearly 9 percent of their body weight on average at 16 weeks. David Kendall, chief medical officer at Zealand Pharma, thinks alternatives to GLP-1s are needed because some people don’t respond well to them , losing only relatively little weight.

Patients on GLP-1 drugs can also hit a plateau, where weight loss slows or stops. Kendall says in those situations, it would be helpful to have alternative medications for people to try. “We think it’s good to have options,” he says.

He thinks Zealand’s drug may also come with fewer side effects than current GLP-1 drugs. Only one participant out of 48 dropped out of the trial due to nausea and vomiting. No other participants reported vomiting. But the drug will need to be tested in much bigger trials to assess its effects in larger groups of people.

“Novo and Lilly broke the dam,” Kendall says. “Previously, weight-loss therapies weren’t very effective. Now that we’ve shown that hormone-based therapies can be so effective, I think it’s changed the world’s perspective that it’s not a losing battle to treat obesity.”

Daniel Drucker, professor of medicine at the University of Toronto, who codiscovered GLP-1 in the 1980s, says more drugs are needed because there’s no telling how long the current shortage of Wegovy and Zepbound will last. Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are both building new manufacturing plants, but it could take years before those facilities are up and running. “Even then, it’s unlikely that those companies could supply even a fraction of the global demand,” he says. “Having new entrants in the field can only increase the supply of these medicines.”

And beyond GLP-1, Drucker says there are likely new mechanisms involved in hunger and appetite that scientists have yet to uncover yet. “With this flurry of activity, we’re probably going to see some very exciting new medicines that could be even better than the ones we have now.”

You Might Also Like …

In your inbox: Our biggest stories , handpicked for you each day

How one bad CrowdStrike update crashed the world’s computers

The Big Story: How soon might the Atlantic Ocean break ?

Welcome to the internet's hyper-consumption era

Olympics: Follow all our coverage from Paris this summer here

IMAGES

Drug Abuse and Its Prevention Free Essay Example
Essay on International day against Drug Abuse
Say No To Drugs Essay 200 Words
The Effects Of Drugs On Our Society And Youths Essay Example (400 Words
Drug Abuse Essay
Essay on Drug Addiction (1300 Words)

VIDEO

poem on anti drug day in english/nasa nishedh diwas par kavita
International Day Against Drugs Poster
Chapter : 43
ESSAY ON DANGERS OF DRUG ABUSE
slogan on anti drug day in english/nasa nishedh diwas par nare
This 80's ANTI-DRUG MOVIE is so unhinged

COMMENTS

Essay on Drug Abuse: 150-250 words, 500 words for Students
Essay on Drug Abuse in 250-300 words. Drug abuse is a growing global concern that poses significant risks to individuals, families, and communities. It refers to the excessive and harmful use of drugs, both legal and illegal, that have negative effects on physical and mental health. Drug abuse has severe consequences for individuals and society.
Essay on Drug Awareness
250 Words Essay on Drug Awareness Introduction. Drugs are substances that alter the body's physiological processes. While some drugs are beneficial and used for medicinal purposes, others can be harmful, leading to addiction, health issues, and societal problems. Drug awareness is a crucial topic, especially for college students, as it is the ...
Drug and Substance Abuse
Introduction. Drug and substance abuse is an issue that affects entirely all societies in the world. It has both social and economic consequences, which affect directly and indirectly our everyday live. Drug addiction is "a complex disorder characterized by compulsive drug use" (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2010).
Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 and 500 Words in English for Students
Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words. 'When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or ...
Anti Drug Abuse: The Imperative to Say No
The scourge of drug abuse continues to plague societies worldwide, affecting individuals, families, and communities alike. Despite extensive awareness campaigns, legislation, and rehabilitation efforts, the incidence of drug abuse remains alarmingly high.
After 50 Years Of The War On Drugs, 'What Good Is It Doing For Us?'
Aaron Hinton has lived his whole life under the drug war. He has watched many Black men like himself get caught up in drugs year after year, swept into the nation's criminal justice system. Brian ...
100 Words Essay on Drug Abuse
500 Words Essay on Drug Abuse Introduction. Drug abuse, also known as substance abuse, is a critical issue that has plagued societies around the world. It is characterized by the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, such as illicit drugs or alcohol, leading to addiction, health problems, social issues, and even death.
108 Drug Abuse Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
Fentanyl - Drug Profile and Specific and Drug Abuse. The drug has the effect of depressing the respiratory center, constricting the pupils, as well as depressing the cough reflex. The remainder 75% of fentanyl is swallowed and absorbed in G-tract. Cases of Drug Abuse Amongst Nursing Professionals.
Science, evidence-based facts, key to help end scourge of drug abuse
The World Drug Report published this week by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime ( UNODC) showed that drug related deaths have nearly doubled over the past decade. Moreover, 10% of HIV cases in 2019, were due to people injecting themselves with harmful substances. The UN chief warned that although international cooperation has helped limit the ...
Essay on Say No to Drugs
Conclusion. In conclusion, saying no to drugs is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive life. It helps prevent the negative consequences of drug use, such as cognitive impairment, emotional instability, and physical health problems. It also helps prevent the societal impact of drug abuse, such as increased crime rates and a burdened ...
Drug Abuse and Its Negative Effects
One of the consequences of using drugs is, eventually, an individual becoming addicted. Addiction refers to a neuropsychological disorder that involves persistently feeling an urge to engage in particular behaviors despite the significant harm or negative effects. The psychology that explains addiction covers many areas, such as an illness or ...
Argument Drug Addiction: [Essay Example], 651 words
Conclusion. Drug addiction is a multifaceted issue that requires a nuanced and comprehensive approach. By understanding the underlying causes of addiction, acknowledging the impact on individuals, families, and communities, and implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies, societies can work towards reducing the prevalence of drug addiction.
Essays About Drugs: Top 5 Examples And 8 Prompts
8 Easy Writing Prompts for Essays About Drugs. 1. Drug Addiction: Painkillers. Opioid addiction stems from the need to relieve pain from injury and other accidents. Unfortunately, up to 19% of these patients abuse prescription painkillers.
Essay on Drug Addiction
Drug addiction, also known as substance-use disorder, refers to the dangerous and excessive intake of legal and illegal drugs. This leads to many behavioral changes in the person as well as affects brain functions. Drug addiction includes abusing alcohol, cocaine, heroin, opioid, painkillers, and nicotine, among others.
Say No To Drugs! Essay
Say No To Drugs! Few people deny the dangers of drug use, while many teens are curious about drugs. They should stay away from drugs because drugs affect our health, lead to academic failure, and jeopardizes safety. Drugs are used from a long period of time in many countries. The concentration of drugs has increased from late 1960's and 1970's.
International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
A staff member of the Liberia National Police Anti-Drug Squad reviews the municipal dump outside Monrovia, Liberia, where they are burning nearly 400 kg of marijuana and other drugs that were ...
Anti-Drug Abuse Essay: Say No To Drugs
Drug Abuse Essay. It is common for young people to hear the phrase "say no to drugs". Those words had a lot more meaning to me and my peers when we were in elementary and middle school. However, as we reached the end of our grade school education, using drugs became more tolerable. Imagine an incidence where a group of high school aged ...
Why is Drug Education Important?
Beyond providing help in substance abuse prevention, drug education is a large proponent of providing safe and healthy resources that promote healthy living. For example, it may raise awareness of community needs, such as a lack of available gyms, lack of proper community health facilities or addiction treatment options, and a lack of safe and ...
Anti-Drug Education: DARE Program: [Essay Example], 1270 words
Anti-drug Education: Dare Program. David Lunn Jr. was in his teenage years when he first went to a DARE program assembly for his school. David heard about the different kinds of drugs and why it is so important to just say no. Sadly, the program enticed him with heroin. Throughout the whole assembly, heroin was on his mind because the program ...
Essay on Drug Addiction in English for Children and Students
Essay on Drug Addiction - Impact of Drug Addiction on Human Behavioral (500 words) - Essay 5. Drug Addiction impacts the physical health badly. It puts the addict at the risk of incurring health problems such as cardiac arrest, stroke and abdominal pain. It also causes mental health issues such as depression, insomnia and bipolar disorder ...
Persuasive Essay On Prescription Drug Abuse
It's simply because they are infallible human beings. One of the ways many teenagers are getting challenged involves the abuse of prescription drugs. In 2005, studies proved that approximately …show more content… It's really hard to believe that young children are experimenting with prescription drugs in this way.
An Olympic-sized fight erupts among anti-doping officials, and it's
PARIS (AP) — The stream of threats, recriminations and anti-doping innuendo flowed freely again Thursday when tensions over a U.S. law designed to combat drugs in sports escalated on the eve of the Paris Olympics. It's a fight that's been simmering for a decade, sparked by Russia's brazen doping scandal at the Sochi Olympics.
A Doping Scandal
In today's newsletter, I'll explain how the Olympic drug testing system is supposed to function, and why, in some of the most high-profile cases, like this one involving the Chinese swimmers ...
Drug Education and Prevention
Drug Education and Prevention Essay. Exclusively available on IvyPanda®. The issue of drug abuse has been a threat to many economies of the world. This has propelled governments and other community organizations worldwide to formulate ways of curbing this menace from all corners.
Nonprescription Analgesic/Antipyretic Drug Development in Children
Organized By. CDER Office of New Drugs, M-CERSI. Summary. The Food and Drug Administration is announcing the following public workshop entitled "Nonprescription Analgesic/Antipyretic Drug ...
What Kamala Harris has said so far on key issues in her campaign
When it comes to reducing drug costs, Harris previously proposed allowing the federal government to set "a fair price" for any drug sold at a cheaper price in any economically comparable ...
Chinese Olympic doping scandal widens as U.S. officials threaten ...
American lawmakers threaten to withhold funding for the World Anti-Doping Agency. The sports watchdog group faces criticism over its secretive handling of positive drug tests by Chinese athletes.
New York Has Only 1 Drug Stockpiled in Case of a Bird Flu Epidemic
The state bought the Tamiflu more than 15 years ago, when it was the obvious choice as the leading flu antiviral. But in 2018, a promising new flu drug entered the market: baloxavir marboxil ...
Drug Abuse and Addiction
Ms. Holimon explains that her father's conduct made her a very unhappy child and caused her to take drugs at a very early age. By the age of fifteen, she was a serious drug addict; however, she succeeded to graduate from high school and find a job as a secretary. Nonetheless, Ms. Holimon did not manage to preserve her working place on the ...
The Race for the Next Ozempic
By then, Novo Nordisk, the maker of Saxenda, was already working on a better GLP-1.This new drug, semaglutide, was first approved for diabetes in 2017 under the brand name Ozempic and then in 2021 ...