What Are Upper and Downer Drugs?

Legacy Healing Center Blog

Uppers and Downers: The Difference Between Stimulants and Depressants

Drug addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Substance abuse can take many forms, including the use of upper and downer drugs. As a rehab center with experience in treating severe addictions, we want to make sure that you understand the dangers these types of drugs can present. Through our levels of care and therapy programs, we can help you or a loved one regain their health and sobriety.

What Are Uppers and Downers?

Both upper and downer drugs are commonly used to help people feel more energetic or calm, respectively, but they can also lead to addiction and dependence. Uppers and downers are types of drugs that affect the central nervous system and alter a person’s mental and physical state. Uppers, also known as stimulants, are drugs that increase energy, alertness and focus. Some common examples of uppers include cocaine, amphetamines, and caffeine. Downers, also known as depressants, are drugs that slow down the central nervous system and produce a calming effect. In addition to treating the physical effects of these substances, our facilities also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy to address their psychological impact.

What Drugs Are Downers? – Understanding Upper and Downer Drugs

Downer drugs, also known as depressants, slow down the central nervous system. Drugs that are depressants can help people feel more relaxed and calm, but they can also lead to addiction and dependence. Some of the most commonly used downer drugs include:

Alcohol

Alcohol is a legal depressant that is consumed by millions of people worldwide. While moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe, excessive drinking can lead to addiction, liver damage, and other health problems.

Benzos

Benzodiazepines or “benzos” are a type of prescription sedative that can be taken orally or injected to treat anxiety and insomnia. However, they are also commonly abused as recreational drugs to induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria.

Opioids

Opioids are a type of prescription painkiller that is commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. However, they are also commonly abused as recreational drugs to induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Opioids can be taken orally, injected, or snorted.

What Are Upper Drugs? – Understanding Upper and Downer Drugs

Upper drugs, also known as stimulants, are drugs that increase alertness and energy levels. Unlike downers, uppers stimulate the central nervous system and can help people feel more awake, alert, and focused. Some of the most commonly used upper drugs include:

Cocaine

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that is made from the leaves of the coca plant. It is usually snorted or injected and can cause feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and decreased appetite. However, the effects of cocaine are short-lived, and users may experience a crash as the drug wears off, contributing to further drug-taking behavior.

Amphetamines

Amphetamines, on the other hand, are a type of synthetic stimulant that may be prescribed to treat conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy. However, they are also commonly abused as recreational drugs to increase energy and focus. Amphetamines can be taken orally, snorted, or injected.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a legal stimulant that is found in many beverages, including coffee, tea, and energy drinks. While it is generally considered safe in moderate amounts, excessive caffeine consumption can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

Legacy Healing is Here to Help You or a Loved One Get off Upper and Downer Drugs

Upper and downer drugs can contribute to addiction and dependence. Especially if someone you know struggles with substance abuse, it is essential to understand the risks associated with these types of drugs and seek professional help. A detox can also help you break free from the upper and downer drugs and reclaim the life you were meant to have. Legacy Healing Center is committed to providing the highest quality addiction treatment programs to help individuals overcome addiction and live healthy and fulfilling lives.

To learn more about our treatment centers, contact us today and speak with one of our trained intake specialists.