Test Your Knowledge

Signs and symptoms vary according to the type and quantity of drug used. Signs and symptoms of some of the most commonly abused drugs include:

Signs and symptoms of drug abuse in children may include:

• Change in activities. Giving up past activities such as sports or homework or spending time with new friends that may be unknown to caregivers.
  
  
• Behavior changes. This may involve aggression, irritability or forgetfulness.
  
  
• Declining school performance. A drop in attendance and/or grades, or being suspended from school.
  
  
• Financial changes. Requests for money that cannot be explained or disappearing money or valuables.
  
  
• Changes in appearance. This may include a sudden lack of interest in clothing or grooming.
  
  
• Risky behavior. This may include drinking and driving or having unprotected sex.
  
  
• Legal trouble. This may involve getting arrested.
  
  
• Possessing paraphernalia. This may include devices used to store and take drugs such as plastic bags, small boxes, pipes and rolling papers.

Patients who experience the following symptoms may wish to consult a physician or other healthcare professional because it may indicate drug addiction:

• Feeling the need to use a drug daily, possibly several times a day
  
  
• Ensuring an adequate supply of the drug is available
  
  
• Failing several attempts to stop using the drug
  
  
• Exhibiting abnormal and self-destructive behavior to obtain a drug, such as stealing
  
  
• Feeling that drug use is necessary to solve problems
  
  
• Exhibiting risky behavior, such as driving, while under the influence of drugs
  
  
• Experiencing signs of withdrawal when not using drugs, such as nausea and shakiness