There are a number of different ways in which drugs can be referred to. This includes one of their street names, brand names, or generic names. Take Ritalin as an example. Ritalin is the brand name of the substance methylphenidate and may also be referred to as speed or an upper. Uppers and downers are actually slang names for groups of drugs that have very different effects. There are countless drugs in each group. One thing both uppers and downers have in common is that they can produce severe side effects, including addiction. Here is a quick look at these groups of drugs and what you should know about them.
What Are Uppers?
A street, or slang term for stimulants and amphetamines, uppers are drugs that produce an increase in energy and an increase in alertness. Uppers are not just known for creating an energizing high, but also for being followed by a dip in energy and motivation as the substance wears off. In fact, individuals who come down off of uppers can experience significant depression and loss of energy.
These substances can be addictive as users will continue to use them to maintain their high and prevent the onset of withdrawal symptoms. Although prescription uppers such as Adderall and Ritalin have proven to be extremely helpful for individuals diagnosed with ADHD, they should always be taken with caution and prescription dosing should be followed carefully. Side effects when taking uppers may include nausea and irregular heartbeat. Examples of illicit uppers include cocaine and methamphetamine.
Nicknames for Stimulants
In addition to the term “uppers” there are a number of nicknames for various stimulants. Amps, beans, bennies, jelly beans, and speed are just a few of the nicknames for amphetamines, a type of upper. You may hear someone refer to cocaine as coke, blow, yayo, snow, sniff, sneeze, or white.
What Are Downers?
Downers is one of many street names, or slang terms, used to refer to depressants. Depressants are a group of drugs that produce a sedative effect. They do not make you depressed but instead induce a sense of relaxation. Calming the mind and body, depressants are often effective in treating conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and epilepsy. However, there can be serious side effects if too great of a dose is taken. These side effects include slowed breathing, reduced heart rate, a lack of consciousness, and potentially overdose. Common examples of downers include alcohol, Xanax (benzodiazepine), and Amytal (barbiturate).
Nicknames for Depressants
Again, “downers” is just a generalized nickname for sedatives and depressants. You may hear benzodiazepines referred to as xannies, bars, z-bars, zanbars, handlebars. Additionally, barbituates are known on the streets as barbs, phennies, red birds, reds, tooies, yellow jackets, yellows.
Mixing Uppers & Downers
When it comes to cross drug use, mixing both uppers and downers is among the most dangerous combinations. One common example is using cocaine and alcohol at the same time. Alcohol has a relaxing sedative effect and cocaine has an energy-boosting effect. Alcohol can help reduce inhibitions when partying and an occasional bump of cocaine help maintain alertness. However, this combination can have severe consequences. When taken together, the effects of these substances the amount needed to cause an overdose is significantly less than if taken alone. Due to the risk of heart failure, mixing stimulants and depressants should be avoided at all times.
Upper & Downer Addiction Treatment
Uppers and downers have an addictive nature and addiction treatment may be the best option for an individual who is abusing them. Whether you or a loved one is struggling with uppers, downers, or poly-substance abuse, our team is here to help. Get treatment today from the trusted recovery programs at Level Up Lake Worth.
FAQs About Which Drugs Are Uppers And Downers
What does the word “upper” mean?
An upper is a drug that makes your body go fast. It wakes up your brain and makes your heart beat very quickly. People who take them might talk a lot or have a ton of energy. These drugs are also called stimulants. When you want to know which drugs are uppers and downers, just remember that uppers “up” your energy level and keep you from feeling sleepy.
What does the word “downer” mean?
A downer is a drug that makes your body slow down. It makes you feel very relaxed or sleepy. Your heart beats slower, and your muscles might feel heavy. These are also called depressants. If you ask which drugs are uppers and downers, think of a downer as something that brings you “down” to a calm or quiet state. They are the opposite of uppers.
What are some examples of uppers?
Coffee and soda have something called caffeine, which is a mild upper. Stronger uppers include things like cocaine or some medicines for school focus. These can make you feel jumpy or nervous. Knowing which drugs are uppers and downers helps you see why some things keep you awake at night. If your heart starts racing, you might have taken an upper that is too strong for your body.
What are some examples of downers?
Alcohol is a common downer that makes people move slowly or lose their balance. Some pills that help people sleep are also downers. Strong pain medicines are in this group too. When learning which drugs are uppers and downers, it is important to know that downers can make you feel very dizzy. They can even make it hard for a person to wake up or breathe properly.
Is it bad to mix uppers and downers together?
Yes, it is very bad for your heart. If you don’t know which drugs are uppers and downers, you might mix them by mistake. This is like pressing the gas and the brake in a car at the same time. It confuses your body and can make you very sick. Your heart might skip beats or stop working. It is always safest to stay away from these types of drugs.
How can I have energy without using drugs?
You do not need drugs to feel good. To get a natural “upper” feeling, you can run outside or play a sport. This gives you healthy energy. To get a natural “downer” feeling to relax, you can listen to soft music or take a warm bath. These are safe ways to help your body feel awake or sleepy. Taking care of your body with good food and sleep is the best plan.
