Table 12-3: table: 12-3Risks and Consequences of Drug Misuse
 

Potential Intoxication

Addiction Potential

Risk of Organ Damage or Death

Risk of Severe Social or Economic Consequences

Risk of Severe or Long-lasting Mental and Behavioral Change

Opioids

High

High

Moderate

High

Low to moderate

Sedative-hypnotics

    Barbiturates

    Benzodiazepines

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate to high

Moderate

Moderate to high

Low

Moderate to high

Low

Low

Low

Stimulants (cocaine, amphetamines)

High

High

Moderate

Low to moderate

Moderate to high

Alcohol

High

Moderate

High

High

High

Cannabis

High

Low to moderate

Low

Low to moderate

Low

Mixed drugs

High

High

High

High

High

Information from: Hart & Ksir, 2014; APA, 2013; Hart et al., 2010.