Attention Colorado residents: These drugs are highly addictive

Colorado is known for its leniency regarding certain types of drugs. There are some types of drugs, however, that most people agree can be quite dangerous. Not only do they have high potentials for addiction, several of them are illegal. However, there are also substances, such as alcohol, that are perfectly legal to use if you adhere to state laws regarding such matters; yet, they can also cause major addiction problems in your life.

Many people who use drugs tend to combine substances on occasion, such as drinking alcohol and then taking prescription medication. This type of behavior is quite high-risk and, in many cases, proves fatal. The more you know about the dangers of highly addictive drugs, the less likely you may be to abuse them. A fact you’ll definitely want to keep in mind is that drug use often leads to legal problems.

Let’s talk about alcohol first

Is it illegal for you to drink a beer and then drive somewhere? The answer is complicated because it may or may not be, depending on several factors, such as what your blood alcohol content level happens to be when you get behind the wheel. The following facts are worth noting:

• Alcohol is a drug.
• Alcohol is extremely high risk for addiction.
• Consuming alcohol in combination with other drugs can be lethal.
• Drinking alcohol and then driving can lead to criminal charges, whether or not you believe you are intoxicated at the time.

In fact, you may not be legally intoxicated but could still face criminal charges if a police officer determines probable cause to arrest you. While you may be able to avoid conviction, it would likely prove quite challenging.

Other addictive substances

In addition to alcohol, nicotine is one of the most addictive substances in Colorado. The following drugs, however, are more addictive than nicotine and are often associated with health problems, life problems and legal problems:

• Heroin is an illegal opioid drug that may block pain and increase feelings of relaxation. Some people describe feelings of euphoria associated with heroin use.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned the general population that heroin addiction is on the rise.
• Nearly 600,000 people, ages 11 and beyond, reportedly suffered heroin addictions in the United States in 2014.
• Cocaine, in both powder and rock forms, is another highly addictive substance that is problematic in many Colorado regions.

Methamphetamine is another powerful stimulant that people smoke, snort and inject in the hope of obtaining feelings for intense euphoria and increased focus and alertness. Any of these drugs can cause addiction problems in your life. Some people are more prone to addiction than others.

When trouble arises

Your local community no doubt has numerous support resources available to help you or one of your loved ones beat a drug addiction problem. Entering rehab is often a first step toward a healthier future. When drug problems include criminal charges, that’s another matter altogether; however, there are also resources available to help you mitigate those types of circumstances as well.