In this current era of life, teenagers have many resources available teaching them about drugs. Whether it is through programs at school, or just a friendly talk with a parent, the majority of children have been raised with the line “just say no”. However, many teenagers likely receive mixed messages through TV and magazine columns advertising legal drugs. One true fact that will never change is all drugs, both legal and illegal, can be abused.

    There is a lot more to consider, though, when it comes to illegal drugs. Narcotics such as Cocaine and Heroin are considered to be on the top end when it comes to levels of danger, while others such as Speed and over the counter prescriptions are considered to be safe in moderation. Neither of those is specifically true. Even though drug intake is done in several different ways, using several different ingredients, all drugs have equally as bad side effects.

Below are details on two of the worlds most commonly abused drugs by teenagers.

    Marijuana, otherwise known as pot or weed, is the most commonly abused illegal drug in the US. From afar it may look like a normal green plant, but this dried drug is hardly normal or safe. Smoked in rolling papers or in other types of paraphernalia, the majority of people do not realize how harmful it is.

    Marijuana causes your brain to react and produce the feeling of a high through an ingredient called THC. Memory loss, difficulty thinking, learning problems and loss of the ability to problem solve are just some of the short-term effects that can take place. Also, loss of coordination, increased heart rate and distorted perception are additional problems that marijuana smokers may experience.

    Ecstasy, alternatively called E, is another frequently abused drug with teenagers. Made from MDMA, it is not a drug that should be taken lightly. Not to mention the fact that codeine, caffeine, ephedrine or ketamine and other substances are often mixed in with the MDMA.

    For quite some time, it was unsure what effects Ecstasy had on your body. Many myths claimed that there was no harm to be done what-so-ever. This is clearly and undoubtedly untrue. Ecstasy use complicates your brain’s release of serotonin, a chemical that regulates your mood. If you experience an overwhelming sense of euphoria, this is why.

    However, it can also cause the complete opposite. Paranoia, anxiety and depression are highly common during ecstasy abuse.