Alcohol, drugs and mental illness

The drug appears to raise the level of dopamine, one of the neurotransmitters in the brain, in the same way as schizophrenia. It is therefore a bad idea for anyone who has suffered from schizophrenia to take this drug.

Cocaine
Cocaine, a stimulant, produces mental exhilaration, a feeling of well being and an indifference to pain. The drug sometimes causes anxiety or panic and people suffering from anxiety states should be especially careful. Prolonged use of cocaine can lead to severe anxiety and insomnia. In addition, cocaine psychosis can develop, as with amphetamines.

Painkillers
The painkilling opioid drugs not only reduce sensitivity to pain but also allay anxiety and produce feelings of warmth and wellbeing, making them prime targets for misuse. Opiate derivatives such as morphine, heroin and codeine are all highly addictive. This is their main disadvantage and necessitates strict control. Some very dilute solutions and formulations of kaolin and morphine are sold over the counter without restrictions.

The main effects of abuse are the apathy produced by prolonged use, the dangers of overdose (which produces stupor, coma and possibly death from respiratory failure), infection from contaminated needles and the fact that many users turn to crime to finance their habit. Opiate addiction in itself is not a known cause of psychotic breakdown.