Drug Abuse

Dear Lisa

My 14 year old son is really a challenge. Sometimes he acts so weird. I know that it is common for teenagers to experiment with drugs? How can I tell what is normal teenage behavior and what are signs that he’s doing drugs?

“Worried that my son may be doing drugs in N.J.”

Dear “Worried that my son may be doing drugs”,

Teenagers are definitely a challenge! You are not alone. Most parents of teenagers complain about their children acting really strange. Sometimes this strange behavior can be considered “normal” but there are some signs that are alarming and warrant further investigation. Chemical odors on your child’s breath, paint or stains on the hands or face and hidden empty spray paint containers or chemical soaked rags are all signs of inhalant abuse. (1) Red eyes, an increase in appetite (the munchies), impaired coordination, reduced attention span and lack of motivation are all signs of marijuana use. (2) Frequent chest pain, persistent nasal discharge, mood swings and declining school grades are signs of Cocaine use. (2) Pruritis (itchiness), constipation, needle marks, and chills may be signs of narcotic use such as Heroin.

Club drugs such as ecstasy and ketamine have gained popularity among youth. They are typically used at underground dance parties or “raves”. Their effects include high energy, enhanced bodily sensations and elevated body temperature which may be life threatening. In general if you notice a sudden change in your child’s personality, he develops problems with truancy or a drop in school performance or if he starts “hanging around” with a new crowd, I would confront him with your concerns. Parents with children involved with drug abuse need to recruit help from professionals who are trained in this area. Unfortunately, drug abuse is a problem which generally will not just go away on its own.

(1) Stephenson M. National Survey Reports Inhalant Use Among Aolescents Increasing. Infectious Diseases in Children. April 2006; 40.
(2)Nanda S, Konnur N. Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Use in the 21st Century. Pediatric Annals. March 2006; 35:3: 193-199.

Lisa Kelly, R.N., P.N.P, C.
Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Pediatric Advice About Keeping Kids Healthy