Gateway Drug

A gateway drug is formally defined as a drug that may lead to future drug abuse of that drug or other more dangerous drugs. For example, experimenting with marijuana may lead to abuse of cocaine or heroine in an individual's future. This theory was developed, taking into account research conducted on those who abused drugs, and their past drug use leading up to such.

What are the gateway drugs? Alcohol is considered one of the few gateway drugs that are a part of this theory. In two thousand and five, research was conducted to prove that over eighty percent of teenagers and pre-teens will first experiment with alcohol before, or if ever using, dangerous drugs in the future.

Alcohol is one of the most common substances found at restaurants, in households and at parties. Other gateway drugs, are most commonly not found at these locations. This making alcohol seem acceptable to consume, and a starting point for possible future drug or alcohol abuse.

Tobacco in cigarettes, pipes, etc. is also considered a gateway drug. Over two thirds of all drug users/abusers also smoke cigarettes or pipes. This meaning, that tobacco often goes hand in hand with the abuse of substances such as cocaine, heroine, marijuana and meth. Also, in that, when an individual stops using drugs, tobacco is often a mental reminder of that very relationship or pairing; therefore, making relapse more common.

Marijuana is yet to be another said gateway drug that may lead to future dangerous drug use or addiction. Having effects that may include but are not limited to dizziness, hallucinations, and/or drowsiness; some say that the side effects of marijuana (cannabis) are like those of consuming alcohol. Therefore, the continuous use of cannabis may lead to future drug addiction, like alcohol is predicted to, in this theory.

Prescription pain killers are one of the other said gateway drugs. Often times, after an injury an individual may be prescribed medications such as Oxycotin and/or Vicodin. Whether abuse does or does not occur with respects to these pain meds, it is said that a door may already have been opened for future drug addiction after use.

The idea of a gateway drug was a theory developed by both medical and research professionals. Given the statistics of drug abusers, those that enter drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, and scientific studies on rats, predictions could be made. If you or someone you know is suffering from a harmful addiction, don't hesitate to consult a rehab center for professional assistance. Lives are changed each and every day though rehabilitation programs, spiritual guidance and medical assistance. It's never too late to make your life happier, healthier and more positive.