Books in Understanding Drugs Series series

Date rape drugs earn their name from the primary motivation for their use: to facilitate sexual assault against an unwitting victim. Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), ketamine, and Rohypnol are the three main types of drugs referred to as date rape drugs, though alcohol is the most common drug used to facilitate date rape. Although each of these drugs differs in their effect on the body, they all act as sedatives, frequently causing unconsciousness and amnesia. Easily dissolved in liquids, a date rape drug placed in a victim's drink can be consumed unknowingly and render the victim unconscious. After the drugs wears off, amnesia about previous events increases the chances that the assailant is never caught. Date Rape Drugs alerts readers to the dangers these drugs pose, how to recognize and avoid them, and how to protect themselves against them.

Ritalin and related drugs are used primarily to treat children, teens, and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. ADHD is marked by hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsive behavior and affects five to eight percent of school-age children, according to the National Resource on ADHD. Ritalin and other related drugs stimulate the nervous system to increase focus and attention. They are often part of an overall plan to help students get organized and learn better. However, these drugs can also be abused, and their use is sometimes controversial. Ritalin and Related Drugs explores the various uses and abuses of these drugs, and explains to teen readers why such abuse should be avoided.

Hallucinogens are mood-altering drugs that cause the user to experience hallucinations, dissociation from reality, or delirium. Hallucinogens such as psilocybin (mushrooms) and mescaline (peyote) are naturally occurring, while LSD, MDMA, PCP, and ketamine are synthetic substances. Abuse of hallucinogens can cause memory impairment, anxiety attacks, flashbacks, nausea, and vomiting. High doses of hallucinogens like PCP can cause convulsions, coma, and death. Hallucinogens provides important information on the nature and chemistry of these drugs, their effects, abuse, and related social and legal issues.Chapters include:OverviewHistory of HallucinogensThe Science of HallucinogensHallucinogens: Use and AbuseTreatment for Hallucinogen AbuseHallucinogens and the LawFuture Trends.