 Drug  Substance other than food that changes the structure or function of the body or mind.  Some drugs are harmful, while other can save your life  Medicines are drugs  Over the counter  Found on the shelves of local pharmacy or grocery stores  These can be obtained only with a doctors written permission

 Drug misuse  Taking or using medicine in a way that is not intended  This can happen with legal or illegal drugs  Taking too much of a drug or medication  Drug Abuse  Intentionally using drugs in a way that is unhealthy or illegal  Recent studies show that fewer people are using illegal drugs, but more are misusing prescription drugs.  This can lead to allergic reactions, illness, or even death.

 Drugs do a lot of harm to the body  Drugs are dangerous for teens because their bodies are still growing and developing  Brain and nervous system does not work properly  Lose control of your ability to walk or talk  Memory loss, seizures, coma, or death

 Many drug users feel they cannot stop taking drugs  Drug addiction  Dependency on a chemical substance that is very difficult and painful to quit.  Addiction is a disease

 Some people may use drugs to cope with uncomfortable feelings  Drug abuse weakens a persons ability to think and learn, even though the person may not realize it at the time.  Low self esteem and relationships with others are difficulty  Depression, anxiety, and confusion

 Drug abusers feel they will be able to solve their problems by using drugs  Drugs only cover up the problems  Drug abuse actually creates new problems on top of old problems

 Drug abuse can change a persons personality  It can cause mood swings  Even lead to violence  Drug abusers lose touch with what they are really feeling.  Someone addicted to drugs only think of their own need for a drug.  Teens lose friends, and lie to cover up their addiction.