Synopsis:

The A–Z of Drugs series aims to present a realistic and balanced view of current issues around drug use in society. It uses an A–Z framework supported by striking images and multimedia techniques. Each programme provides information on the use and effects of various drugs, raising issues for individuals and society in the process. Real-life stories and the views of young people, health professionals and those working to reduce harm from drugs provide major insights to a complex area.

Programme 2: F–O

Programme 2 examines drugs legislation and also examines the role friends and social groups have in a person’s decision to try drugs. Following the alphabetical format of the series, the programme then looks at GHB, heroin, ketamine, LSD and nicotine and their side effects.

Teachers and lecturers should familiarise themselves with guidelines that apply when working in drug education and be familiar with policies in their institutions relating to tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.

00.00 – 01.54
F – friends
Judgements about friendships and lifestyle.

01.55 – 04.14
G – GHB (Gammahydroxybutyrate)
Depressant. Dangerous with other drugs, especially alcohol. Risks: overdose and date rape.

04.15 – 10.53
H – heroin
Depressant. Addict tried it, liked it, kept trying, got hooked. Paid high price financially, socially and health-wise.

10.54 – 12.16
I – injecting
Instantaneous rush. Eventual difficulty finding veins. Risks: HIV and hepatitis C from shared needles, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

12.17 – 12.44
J – joining
Importance of making choices you really want for yourself.

12.45 – 14.24
K – ketamine
Hallucinogenic. Not illegal. Extremely strong painkiller. Risks: unconsciousness, robbery, violence, sexual assault.

14.25 – 18.10
L – law
Stop and search, carrying small amounts, selling and sharing, carrying from abroad. Court record undesirable for job prospects. Ex-offender’s story.

18.11 – 19.10
L – LSD
Hallucinogenic. Effects delayed. Changes perceptions. First aid for bad trip.

19.11 – 20.17
M – mixing
Brain finely tuned chemically. One drug affects it, two can cause serious drug-to-drug interaction. Alcohol effectively switches off decision-making capacity.

20.18 – 23.00
N – nicotine
Stimulant. Highly addictive. Many people wish they didn’t smoke. Hard to quit. Graphic illustration of all parts of body affected.

23.01 – 24.14
O – overdose
Caused by too much of a drug, or mixing drugs. Loss of consciousness major risk. First aid.