As a sequel to my earlier article Read here on Nigeria’s rising drug and substance abuse, I received lots of emails and WhatsApp messages asking me to detail how substances commonly abused can be detected.
Majority of these emails came from concerned parents and teachers some of whom have had to deal with a drug-related crisis. Others work regularly with teenagers, youth and even young adults.
Hence, I have decided to put a detailed compilation of drugs, their classification and street names. It is imperative to state that this list was not originally compiled by me. However, as I was conducting my research I saw this on my office notice board and volar it solved my problems.
[table id=1 /]
Having read through the table above, note there is a correlation between drug abuse and HIV/AIDS infection. As a result of the ‘highnesses’ of these drugs, most of the addicts involve in sexual orgies which are often unprotected leading to exposure and possible infection of HIV.
You may ask what the list can do for you especially if you have not had a direct confrontation with a drug addict. This will help you detect behavioural changes in your wards. In addition, if you hear any of the street names (which were not exhaustive) in their conversation, you will be able to know what you are dealing with.
Like I always say, don’t live in denial. Drug and substance abuse is not just carried out by touts anymore but by highly placed intellectuals and professionals. By very intelligent students in secondary schools and the universities who desire to read longer hours and excel.
As noble as their excuse maybe, drug dependency is a misnomer, a set up for organ failure and premature death if not dealt with rapidly.
JoshaU
Amazing write up, people need to read this article..
Offor Hope Jeremiah
You stated a fact clearly on your write-up, there is a very strong connection between drugs abuse and HIV, we often forget to talk about the inter-relatedness of this social vice and key sexual health and rights issues. Kudos
Nonipet
Thanks for this enlightenment, you’re doing a marvelous job
Anang Christy Ijang
Thank you very much for this one.This issue of drugs and addiction is given very little attention in many parts of Africa.The earlier we start focusing more on this the better future we would have.we are actively loosing a young and vibrant generation to this vice.Thanks for putting this in the spotlight
Okonkwo Chukwuemeka
Was taught these during my secondary school days. I wonder if they still do so now..
Kachi
I think 2 things are key to combating the problem:
Firstly, we need to regulate the chain of distribution of the product from the point of production to the point of consumption. This needs the NAFDAC/NDLEA/Immigration/Customs and the hospitals because these drugs are genuinely used for medical conditions too, they are not entirely harmful.
Secondly, you need rehab for those already affected: this will include the alcohol and substance misuse clinic, psychologists, social services, HIV/hepatitis testing.
Anang Christy Ijang
One of my school mates now roams the streets in madness due to drugs. Can you imagine a parent sends a child to boarding school for 5 years, showers all the money and love in hope for a better future and at the end of the day this child ends up mad.Each time i come across him, i weep! What a waste!! I can only imagine what his parents are going through.
Nzubechi. E.
Claiming to be ignorant about drug abuse won’t help us that’s why this sensitization is a good idea. All hands should be on deck to curb this rising menace. Thumbs up!
Chukwukadibia Ude
Good list.
Keep thinking, researching, writing, speaking out and solving problems.