Illicit drugs are those with no legal uses or very limited accepted medical uses. People often use these drugs recreationally, which is dangerous due to their high abuse potential, risk of overdose and adverse long-term effects.
While drug use is an issue throughout the United States, not all regions show the same patterns. The following are illicit substances of which use in Arkansas is common.
Methamphetamine
According to Rehab Adviser, over 6,000 people in Arkansas seek treatment for methamphetamine use every year. Meth is a potent and highly addictive stimulant drug. Long-term use can lead to psychosis, anxiety and aggression. Its accelerative effect on the central nervous system can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Opioids
Heroin is an example of an opioid with no accepted medical use, but most opioid deaths in Arkansas result from prescription opioids provided to patients by doctors to help with pain control. Compared to the national average, doctors in Arkansas prescribe more opioid pain relievers. Every year, approximately 4,500 people in Arkansas seek treatment for opioid use. However, a better understanding of opioid addiction and stricter prescribing practices are helping to reverse that trend.
Marijuana
Due to a shift in public opinion and legalization by many state governments, marijuana’s status as an illicit drug is currently in question. However, according to the Drug Enforcement Agency, it is still a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law. Marijuana is a mind-altering drug with the potential to cause respiratory issues.
Conviction on distribution, possession or other drug charges can be extremely serious. The consequences can follow a person around for decades.