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Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy

Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy

Reviewed By: Administrative Council on
Approved By: Albert K. Karnig, President on
Reviewed By: Administrative Council on
Approved By: Albert K. Karnig, President on
Reviewed By: Administrative Council on
Approved By: Tomás D Morales, President on
Reviewed By: Administrative Council on
Approved By: Tomás D Morales, President on

Inquiries about the interpretation of this policy - Contact Executive Director of Health, Counseling & Wellness (Student Health Center), (909)-537-3070 
Inquiries regarding sales or serving of alcohol - Contact University Enterprises Corporation Executive Director (909-537-3549) 
Inquiries regarding alcohol use in residence halls - Contact Vice President for Student Affairs (909-537-5185) 
Inquiries regarding approval of Alcohol Use Permits - Contact University Police Chief (909- 537-5384)
Inquiries regarding laws applicable to alcohol use - Contact University Police Chief (909-537- 5384) 
Inquiries regarding alcohol-related advertising - Contact Associate Vice President for Strategic Communications (909-53 7-5007) 

Background

The policy is created to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace and Drug-Free Schools & Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226), which requires the University to adopt and implement a program to prevent the unlawful use and/or abuse of drugs or alcohol by faculty, staff, and students and to set forth standards to provide a safe, healthy, and productive community setting for work and study. 


The unlawful possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or sale of illicit drugs or drug-related paraphernalia, tobacco, or alcohol, and the misuse of legal pharmaceutical drugs by any faculty, staff, recognized auxiliary employee, student, registered student club or organization, campus entity, visitor or visiting organization is strictly prohibited in the workplace, on University premises, at University activities, or on University business, on campus and off. Any faculty, staff, student or student organization, campus entity, visitor, or visiting organization that violates this policy is subject to disciplinary action as set forth in the following and/or will be referred to the appropriate authorities for legal prosecution. 

SALE OF CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ON CAMPUS

Sales or consumption of alcoholic beverages is limited to beer and wine. No distilled alcohol is authorized to be sold or consumed on campus. Only the University Enterprises Corporation Dining Services Department is authorized to conduct the sale and/or service of alcoholic beverages. University Enterprises Corporation shall maintain the proper licenses which give the authority to sell beer or wine and shall adhere to all laws applicable to the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages. 

On a routine basis, beer and wine may be sold only in Santos Manuel Student Union No11h Coyote Cantina and the Coussoulis Arena VIP Coyote Club. University Enterprises Corporation shall develop and adhere to a policy in which all University Enterprises Corporation employees who sell and serve alcohol receive proper and adequate training, including periodic refresher training. The University Enterprises Corporation Executive Director shall be responsible for the proper licensing and training. 

Upon occasion, alcoholic beverages may be included in the fom1 of a gift basket to be bid on by donors such as a wine-themed gift basket during CSUSB fundraising sponsored events. This is allowed as long as the promotion of the alcoholic beverages does not encourage any form of alcohol abuse nor places emphasis on quantity or frequency of use, and the purchaser must be at least 21 years of age. Gift basket items cannot be consumed at the fundraising event. 

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN CAMPUS RESIDENCE HALLS AND APARTMENTS

 Residents and Guests age 21 and over:

  1. 1.    Students age 21 and over can consume alcohol in their room or apartment with the door closed so long as they are not in the presence of anyone under 21 years of age; consumption and possession of alcohol in the presence of others under the age of 21 is prohibited.

  2. A student age 21 and over is prohibited from hosting and serving alcohol to a person(s) under 21 years of age. It is a violation of state law to furnish alcoholic beverages to anyone under the age of 21.

  3. Transport of alcoholic beverages by persons the age 21 and over to and from their room is permitted only under the following restrictions: alcoholic beverages must be in the original containers, remain sealed by the manufacturer and in an opaque container such as a paper bag.

Residents and Guests under age 21:

  1. Residents and their guests who are under the age of 21 are prohibited from transporting, possessing, or consuming alcoholic beverages in their room or apartment.  Students under the age of 21 in the presence of alcohol will be found in violation of the University Alcohol Policy.

All Residents and Guests:

  1. Alcohol cannot be consumed as part of a large group or party where the main purpose appears to be drinking alcohol.
  2. Kegs, pony kegs, multiple cases of alcohol, and other bulk quantities of alcohol beverages that are excessive under the circumstances for personal use are prohibited.
  3. Drinking ga111es or sin1ulated drinking gan1es are prohibited. This includes beer pong, water pong (or another beverage), flip cups, quarters, king's cup, etc. Items used for drinking games or other activities that encourage the excessive or rapid consumption of alcohol are not allowed (beer pong tables, beer bongs, funnels, etc.)
  4. The manufacture of any type of alcoholic beverages by any method is prohibited.
  5. The sale of alcoholic beverages in the residence halls is prohibited.
  6. No one, regardless of age, may have an open container of alcohol ( e.g., can, bottle, cup) in a public area at any time (any area in the community other than a bedroom, room, or apartment).
  7. Public intoxication is prohibited.
  8. The inability to exercise care for oneself and one's safety or the safety of others due in whole or in part to alcohol consumption is a violation of the University Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy.
  9. Possession/use of alcohol in any public area in or around the residence halls is prohibited.
  10. Alcohol ( opened or unopened) found in connection with Department of Housing & Residential Education Policy violations will be disposed of
  11. Collection or display of alcohol containers is not permitted in student rooms, suites, or apartments.
  12. Any damage occurring as a result of alcohol use (including that due to vomit) will be the responsibility of the resident.
  13. If there is an incident, individuals responsible are expected to clean up any mess. If they are incapacitated or otherwise unable to do so, residents will be billed for the cost of custodial cleanup.
  14. No person may assist, aid, or otherwise facilitate another in violating this Policy.

SPECIAL EVENTS

The consumption of beer or wine shall not be the main focus of any event. With approval and prescribed control, only beer or \Vine may be served at special events along with substantial food such as a meal or heavy hors d'oeuvres. Non-alcoholic beverages must also be offered and be displayed as prominently as alcoholic beverages. Alcohol may not be sold, served or consumed at events sponsored by student organizations. If alcohol is served at events where students are present, the normal controls regarding service will apply. 


The following conditions shall apply to the sale or consumption of beer or wine at special events:

  • An Alcohol Use Permit must be obtained through Special Events and Guest Services and approved by the Vice President for Finance, Technology & Operations or their designee.
  • A full-time CSUSB management employee administrator, or their designee, or faculty member must make application of the permit.
  • A full-time management employee/administrator, or their designee or faculty member must assume responsibility for the conduct of the event and be present during the entire period in which the alcohol is consumed.
  • Beer and/or wine may be purchased and served by faculty or staff at small events which are not attended by the public or students. A permit will be required, and the individual signing the permit application shall be held accountable for the conduct of the event.
  • Except as noted above, alcohol may only be served by University Enterprises Corporation. If a special license is required, it shall be obtained by University Enterprises Corporation.
  • A specific location must be designated as the area in which the alcohol will be consumed. Alcohol will not be allowed to leave this area.
  • A certificate of insurance may be required for events in which alcohol is present. If required, the University will be named as insured on the certificate. The event sponsor is responsible for the certificate of insurance, including cost, prior to the event.

SPECIAL EVENT AT PALM DESERT CAMPUS

The Associate Vice President of the Palm Desert Campus will approve the Permit to Serve Alcoholic Beverages for special events to be held at the Palm Desert Campus, and will forward the permit to the University Police Chief for approval. The Associate Vice President or a member of their management staff will attend the entire event at which alcoholic beverages are served. 

PROMOTION, ADVERTISING

The event or social occasion should be the focus for promotion and advertising. Promotion and advertising for any event, on or off campus, may not include alcoholic beverage logos, names, or other depictions for the purpose of alcohol sales, nor promote or advertise the serving or sale of alcohol. 

Alcohol Advertising

In addition, the advertising of alcoholic beverages on campus, including athletic events in university-owned or operated facilities, is permissible, but alcohol advertising should not encourage any form of alcohol abuse nor place emphasis on quantity and frequency of use. For the purposes of this policy, alcoholic beverages refer to beer and wine. Any such advertising must comply with the following policy guidelines that are consistent with the 'Guidelines for Beverage Alcohol Marketing' distributed by the National Inter-Association Task Force on Alcohol Issues, a higher education coalition dedicated to the responsible use and advertising of alcoholic beverages: 

  1. Any promotional displays or messages shall incorporate clear language and encourage only responsible and legal use of alcoholic beverages. Such messages shall be at least as prominent as any other message content, such as product slogans or listed attributes of a particular product.
  2. Advertising from local retailers or distributors that promote 'drink specials' (e.g., 2-for-1 drinks, half-price happy hour drinks, etc.) should not be accepted or posted.
  3. Beverage alcohol advertising on campus or in institutional media should not p011ray drinking as a solution to personal or academic problems, or as necessary to personal, social, sexual, or academic success.
  4. Alcohol beverage promotions permitted by the university may not incorporate students or employees (including coaches, faculty, etc.) as active participants in a promotional message.
  5. In all promotions, alcohol beverage trademarks or logos must be clearly subordinate to the sponsored event.
  6. Promotional activities should not be associated with existing campus events or programs without the prior knowledge or consent of the president.
  7. The name of an alcoholic beverage product may not be connected to the name of a university event or a facility (e.g., XYZ wine golf tournament, etc.).
  8. The university's name or depaiiment or any related nickname may not be utilized in a way that implies a product endorsement by the university (e.g., XYZ Beer -- beverage of choice for CSUSB fans).
  9. Alcoholic beverages should not be provided as free awards to individual students, campus organizations or other members of the academic community.
  10. University departments and organizations may not distribute clothing, posters, or other promotional items that utilize the university symbol in combination with an alcoholic beverage trademark or logo.
  11. Any alcohol promotional material connected with any university athletic event (e.g., media guide game programs) must receive prior written approval by the athletic director and the president or his designee.
  12. Promotional materials associated with any other university program (other than athletics) must be approved by the Vice President for Student Affairs.
  13. This policy does not restrict the amount or content of alcohol advertising, purchased independently tlu·ough commercial radio or TV companies, during broadcasts of athletic events. However, broadcasters under contract with a CSU institution should strongly be urged to follow the above provisions when accepting commercials that promote alcoholic beverages.
  14. Student newspaper publications should also be encouraged to follow the above provisions for any advertising messages for alcoholic beverage companies/distributors.

LAWS APPLICABLE TO ALCOHOL BEVERAGES AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

The following is not a comprehensive list and summarizes only a few laws that govern alcoholic beverages and controlled substances. Laws may change over time, and individuals are expected to be aware of current federal, state, and local laws. 

CALIFORNIA LAW GOVERNING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

  1. No person may sell, furnish, give, or cause to be sold, furnished or give away any alcoholic beverages to a person under the age of 21, and no person under the age of 21 may purchase alcoholic beverages (California Business and Professions Code section 25658).
  2. It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 to possess alcoholic beverages on any street or highway or in any place open to public view (California Business and Professions Code section 25662).
  3. It is a misdemeanor to sell, furnish, or give away an alcoholic beverage to any person under the age of 21 (California Business and Professions Code 25658) or to any obviously intoxicated person (California Business and Professions Code section 25602).
  4. It is unlawful for any person to drink while driving or to have an open container or an alcoholic beverage in a moving vehicle. With a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or higher, a driver is presumed under the influence of alcohol. Between .04 percent and .08 percent, a person may be found guilty of driving under the influence (California Vehicle Code section 23152)
  5. It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 who has a .05 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood to drive a vehicle (California Vehicle Code section 23140).

OTHER CALIFORNIA LAWS

Every person who is found in any public place under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance or any combination of any of the above and is in such a condition that the person is unable to exercise care for their own safety or the safety of others is guilty of a misdemeanor (California Penal Code section 64 7(f)). 

FEDERAL LAWS GOVERNING CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

(See United States Code 21, Sections 811, 844, 853, 881)

  1. he unlawful possession, use, manufacture, sale, or distribution of alcohol or all scheduled (illicit) drugs may lead to prosecution and, depending on the nature of the offense, may be categorized as a misdemeanor or felony and may be punished by fine and/or imprisonment.
  2. Examples of illicit drugs include opioids, barbiturates, amphetamines, cocaine, cannabis, hallucinogens.
  3. First-offense penalties for the illegal possession of a controlled substance range from up to 1 year in prison and a fine of at least $1,000 but not more than $250,000, or both. Second and subsequent convictions can include increased imprisonment and fines.
  4. Depending on the amount first offense, maximum penalties for trafficking marijuana range from 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 to life imprisonment and a fine of$10 million.
  5. Depending on the amount, first offense maximum penalties for trafficking class I and II controlled substances (methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, cocaine base, PCP, LSD, fentanyl, etc.) range from 5 years to life imprisonment and fines from $5 to$10 million.
  6. Property, including vehicles, vessels, aircraft, money, securities, or other things of value which are used in, intended for use in, or traceable to transactions that involve controlled substances in violation of federal law are subject to forfeiture to the United States.
  7. Persons convicted of possession or distribution of controlled substances can be barred from receiving benefits from any and all federal programs, including student grants and loans, except some long-term drug treatment programs.
  8. The federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 (41 U.S.C. 701) requires that University employees directly engaged in the performance of work on a Federal contract or grant shall abide by this Policy as a condition of employment and shall notify the Principal Investigator and/or the Chair of the sponsoring department or unit within five clays if they are convicted of any criminal drug statute violation occurring in the workplace or while on University business. In turn, the Principal Investigator or Chair shall notify the administrative head of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. That administrator is then obligated to notify the Federal contracting or granting agency within ten days of receiving notice of such conviction and to take appropriate corrective action or require the employee to participate satisfactorily in an approved drug abuse assistance rehabilitation program.

CALIFORNIA LAW GOVERNING CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

California law regarding controlled substances is, in many respects, similar to federal law. Violations can result in imprisonment, fine, or both.

CALIFORNIA LAW GOVERNING MARIJUANA/CANNABIS

It is important to be aware that California State University San Bernardino does not permit marijuana use or possession on campus property, including residential facilities. The university is required to uphold federal laws that prohibit use, distribution, and consumption of marijuana by anyone of any age. 

The California State University, including San Bernardino, receives federal funding in the form of student financial aid and grants that would be in jeopardy if those federal laws did not take precedence in our policies. Thus, the use and possession of marijuana in any form ( e.g., smoking, edibles) or amount violates the CSU Student Conduct Code, and the California Compassionate Use Act does not apply at the California State University San Bernardino. 

CSU CHANCELLOR’S OFFICE

The CSU Executive Order 1108 mandates a smoke and tobacco-free environment at all CSU campuses. This includes all CSU property and in all indoor and outdoor spaces owned, leased, licensed, or otherwise controlled by the CSU. Tobacco use and smoking are prohibited in all vehicles owned by the CSU, as well as privately owned vehicles at any event or activity on campus property, including parking lots and structures. The CSUSB Campus Smoke and Tobacco Free Enviro1m1ent Policy, which applies to all students, faculty, staff, alumni, vendors, and visitors on CSUSB property, outlines the definitions, exceptions, compliance, and available cessation services.

CSUSB STANDARDS FOR STUDENT CONDUCT

California Code of Regulations
Title 5. Education
Chapter 1. California State University
Subchapter 4. Student Affairs. Article 2. Student Conduct
§ 41301. Standards for Student Conduct
 
Campus Community Values 
The University is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy living and learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. Each member of the campus community must choose behaviors that contribute toward this end. Student behavior inconsistent with the Student Conduct Code is addressed t1u·ough an educational process designed to promote safety and good citizenship and, when necessary, impose appropriate consequences. 

The Student Conduct Code includes consequences for the following:

  1. Use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of illegal drugs or drug-related paraphernalia, (except as expressly permitted by law and University regulations) or the misuse of legal pharmaceutical drugs.
  2. Use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages (except as expressly permitted by law and University regulations), or public intoxication while on campus or at a University-related activity.

Sanctions for the conduct listed above can be imposed on applicants, emolled students, students, between academic terms, graduates awaiting degrees, and students who withdraw from the University while a disciplinary process is in progress. 

For further information regarding the CSUSB Standards for Student Conduct please see the Student Conduct and Ethical Development website

Health Risks Associated with the Use of Alcoholic and other Drugs (See Appendix)

The following information is meant to be used as a guide to inform you about potential risks that are associated with the misuse of drug and alcohol. This information should not be used as a diagnostic tool, nor is the information definitive of substance abuse. If you have concerns about a person’s behavior, please visit the Alcohol and Drug Education web page (https://www.csusb.edu/alcohol-drug-education).

Alcohol:

Alcohol is a depressant that reduces activity in the central nervous system. It can decrease heart rate, lower blood pressure, and decrease respiration rate. Alcohol intoxication lowers inhibitions, impairs judgment, slows reaction times and causes loss of fine motor coordination. 

When a person drinks too much, their capacity to process information and make safe decisions is impaired. The risks associated with alcohol misuse include hangover. overdose and addiction. Alcohol misuse and abuse places the individual at increased risk for physical injury, driving under the influence, sexual assault and other violent behavior. Misusing alcohol can also have a negative impact on academic success, work performance, friendships and family relationships. 

Numerous health risks are associated with drinking. Alcohol can interact with many over-the­counter, prescription, and illegal drugs, intensifying the effects of these drugs and leading to potential organ failure or death. Long-term excessive drinking can lead to a variety of health problems such as: decreased brain function; impaired sensation. memory lapses or blackouts, organ damage, and addiction. Research indicates that adult children of parents with alcoholic use disorder have as much as a four to six times greater risk of developing alcohol use disorder themselves or having a problem with other drugs. 

Excessive (binge) drinking can result in alcohol poisoning. Binge drinking is defined as five or more standard drinks in two hours for men and four or more standard drinks in two hours for women. On average. it takes over an hour to eliminate the alcohol content of one standard drink from the body. Nothing can speed up this process, such as coffee, cold showers, or sleep. Drinking too much or drinking a large quantity of alcohol quickly raises one's blood alcohol content to the point where the body cannot effectively process the alcohol. This can result in overdose, alcohol poisoning and possibly coma or death.

Benzodiazepines: 

When viewed through a recreational lens, benzodiazepines, or "benzos," are sometimes misused for their sedative and relaxing effects. Recreational users may seek the calming sensations and euphoria induced by these drugs. However, the recreational use of benzodiazepines carries significant health risks. 

Abusing benzodiazepines can lead to rapid development of tolerance, meaning higher closes are needed to achieve the desired effects. This escalation increases the likelihood of dependence and addiction. The sedative properties of benzodiazepines can result in impaired coordination, slurred speech, and memory lapses, contributing to a higher risk of accidents and injuries. 

Combining benzocliazepines with other substances, particularly alcohol, can intensity their effects and amplify the associated risks. Moreover, recreational use often involves obtaining benzodiazepines without a prescription, leading to unpredictable dosages and potential contamination with other harmful substances. 

Long-tenn recreational use of benzodiazepines may have serious consequences, including cognitive impairment, emotional blunting. and increased susceptibility to mental health issues. Abrupt cessation of benzodiazepine use can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. 

Marijuana/Cannabis:

Marijuana's effects vary and are dependent on several factors, such as the amount of THC (the active ingredient in marijuana), the person, setting, amount, and/or expectation of the user. Marijuana can make it harder to function and succeed in an academic or work setting, particularly when tasks require close attention and thoughtful decision-making. Using marijuana may impair one's short-term memory, reading comprehension, and capacity to solve verbal and mathematical problems. Increased heart rate and uncomfortable feelings such as paranoia and panic can be experienced with marijuana use. Additionally, regular use may lead to ·'a motivational syndrome" with symptoms of listlessness, fatigue, inattention, withdmwal and apathy, making it difficult to achieve academic and personal goals. 

Coordination and balance are greatly affected by marijuana use since it slows reflexes and impair visual perception. Driving under the influence of marijuana (or being driven by someone else under the influence) can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Regular use can lead to a variety of health problems such as elevated blood pressure and decreased body temperature; irritation of the mouth, throat, and lungs, and aggravation of astlm1a. bronchitis. and emphysema; and chronic lung disease and cancer. Additionally. one can test positive for marijuana up to 3 months after use. 

Inhalants:

Inhaling fumes (also known as "huffing") from chemicals such as paint thim1ers, glue. gasoline, propane, butane, nitrous oxide, and others can be extremely risky and can cause death. Other health consequences include loss of inhibition, loss of motor coordination and/or muscle weakness. headache, nausea or vomiting, cramps, slurred speech, wheezing, unconsciousness, depression, memory impairment, and/or damage to heart and nervous system. 

Sudden sniffing death syndrome (SSDS) is a rate but potentially fatal consequence of inhalant abuse. This syndrome occurs when individuals inhale volatile substances, such as solvents or aerosol propellants, leading to a sudden and unexpected cardiac arrest. The inhalants disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart, causing a lethal anhythrnia. SSDS can happen even in individuals who are otherwise healthy and may occur with a single episode of inhalant use. The risk is heightened by factors like physical activity, stress, or pre-existing conditions. 

MDMA (Ecstasy or Molly) :

MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or molly, is a hallucinogenic amphetamine drug that alters mood and perception. While it is often associated with recreational use for its euphoric effects, it carries several health risks. MDMA use can lead to dehydration, hype1thermia (elevated body temperature), and electrolyte imbalances, potentially resulting in heatstroke, seizures, or even organ failure. 

Steroids:

Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the hormone testosterone. Used medically to supplement normal hormonal levels after injury or disease, others use steroids to gain an edge (albeit illegally) in athletic endeavors. Steroid use can lead to a variety of health problems including high blood pressure, liver disease and cancer. Male users experience testicular atrophy, breast growth, impotence, sexual dysfunction, acne, and aggression. Female users experience enlarged clitoris, deepened voice, male pattern baldness, and acne. Most of these effects are permanent even after steroid use has ended. 

Cocaine:

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant. While it can produce intense feelings of euphoria an increased energy, it is associated with significant health risks. 

Short-term effects of cocaine use include heightened alertness, increased heait rate, and euphoria. However, these effects are often followed by negative consequences such as anxiety, paranoia, and, in some cases, violent behavior. Cocaine can also have serious cardiovascular effects, leading to heart attacks, strokes, or seizures, especially in individuals with pre-existing heait conditions. Repeated use of cocaine can result in the development of tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Chronic cocaine use is associated with severe health issues, including respiratory problems, weight loss, dental issues, and an increased risk of infectious diseases due to impaired immune function. 

The method of ingestion also affects the risks; snorting or smoking cocaine can damage the nasal and respiratory systems, while injecting it introduces the risk of infectious diseases and other complications. 

Amphetamines:

Amphetamines are a class of stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system, commonly known by names such as "speed" or "uppers." 

Short-term effects of amphetamine use include increased energy, alertness, and a sense of euphoria. However. these effects come with several health risks. Amphetamines can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks or strokes. Prolonged use can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and paranoia. 

Chronic amphetamine use can lead to tolerance and dependence, vvith users requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. Abrupt cessation can result in withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, depression, and increased appetite. 

Amphetamines are often abused for their performance-enhancing and appetite-suppressing properties, making them a concern in contexts such as athletics and weight management. Illicitly manufactured amphetamines, such as methamphetamine, pose additional risks clue to their increased potency and potential for impurities. 

LSD:

LSD, or lysergic acid cliethylamide, is a powerful hallucinogenic drug known for its profound effects on perception, mood, and thought. It is a synthetic compound and is classified as a psychedelic. LSD is commonly consumed in the form of small squares of paper soaked in the drug, known as "tabs" or "blotters." 

When someone takes LSD, they may experience altered sensory perceptions, intense visual hallucinations, and a distorted sense of time. The drug primarily affects serotonin receptors in the brain. While LSD itself is not considered physically addictive, its intense and unpredictable psychological effects pose certain risks. 

The "trip" induced by LSD can be highly variable, influenced by factors such as the user's mood, environment, and mental state. Although LSD is not associated with physical toxicity or overdose, a bad trip can result in anxiety, panic, and a loss of touch with reality. Individuals with a predisposition to mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, may experience worsening symptoms. 

The long-term psychological effects of LSD use are not entirely clear, and research in this area is ongoing. Hovvever, persistent episodes of psychosis or hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) have been reported in some individuals. 

Heroin:

Heroin is an opioid drug derived from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seedpod of ce11ain varieties of poppy plants. It is a highly addictive and illegal substance that produces intense euphoria and pain relief. Heroin is typically injected, smoked, or snorted. 

The risks associated with heroin use are severe and encompass both short-term and long-term consequences. Short-term effects include a rush of euphoria, clouded mental functioning, and suppressed respiratory function. Overdosing on heroin can lead to respiratory failure, coma, and death. 

Heroin addiction develops rapidly clue to the drug's ability to create physical dependence. Regular use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Attempting to quit or reduce heroin use can result in withdrawal symptoms, which can be extremely uncomfortable and include nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and intense drug cravings. 

The method of administration, particularly injection, increases the risk of infectious diseases such as HIV/ AIDS and hepatitis due to needle sharing. Heroin sold on the i !licit market is often adulterated or mixed with other substances, heightening the risk of unexpected and dangerous reactions. 
Long-term heroin use can lead to a range of health problems, including collapsed veins, liver and kidney disease, and respiratory issues. The lifestyle associated with heroin addiction, including criminal activity to support the habit, contributes to legal and social consequences. 

Opioids: 

Opioids encompass a broad class of drugs, both legal prescription medications and illegal substances like heroin, that interact with the body's opioid receptors. While prescription opioids are commonly used for pain management, they share similar risks with illicit opioids, particularly when misused or abused. 

Short-term use of opioids for pain relief can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, and nausea. However, the more pressing concern arises with long-term use and misuse, as opioids have a high potential for addiction. Tolerance can develop, requiring higher doses to achieve the same pain-relieving effects. 

The opioid crisis, fueled in part by the overprescription of pain medications, has led to a surge in opioid addiction. Prescription opioid misuse can transition to illicit opioid use, with substances like fentanyl posing a heightened risk due to their potency. Opioid overdoses are a significant health concern, often resulting in respiratory depression, coma, and death 

To combat the opioid and fentanyl crisis, the state of California implemented the Campus Opioid Safety Act on January 1, 2023. This act "aims to reduce opioid-related overdoses and deaths through public colleges and universities providing life-saving education, information, and federally approved opioid overdose reversal medication on campus. 

Specific Dangers from Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault Drugs: 

These drugs are given to another person without them knowing, usually by slipping the drug into a drink. Rohypnol (aka. Roofies), is a potent tranquilizer that has been used to facilitate sexual assaults. Effects of the drug occur 20 to 30 minutes after ingestion and leave the person feeling drowsy. dizzy, and disoriented. rendering them helpless and immobile. ln addition to these sedative effects, impaired balance and/or speech, and memory loss are common. Like Rohypnol, GHB has also been associated with sexual assault. In its clear liquid form, it can easily be slipped into someone's drink. Effects of the drug can be felt in 15-20 minutes and include dizziness, heavy drowsiness, and confl.1sion. 

Some people use GHB to enhance the effects of alcohol or other drugs. This combination can be especially life-threatening due to synergistic effects of the drugs. GHB use can lead to a variety of physical problems such as dizziness, nausea, breathing problems, memory loss, seizures, unconsciousness, and in some cases, death. Originally used as an animal tranquilizer, ketamine is now used as a club drug due to its hallucinogenic effects. Many negative effects can result from ketamine use including vomiting, numbness, loss of muscle control, paranoia, and aggression. In larger doses, effects may include convulsions, decreased oxygen to the brain, coma and even death. Individuals who use ketamine are at increased risk for sexual and physical assault since their loss of muscle control and mental state makes them vulnerable to assault. 

Prescription MEdication Misuse:

Prescription drug misuse refers to the inappropriate use of medications prescribed by a healthcare professional. This issue has become a significant public health concern due to the potential for addiction, overdose, and other adverse health effects associated with the misuse of prescription drugs. 

Commonly misused prescription drugs include: 

  • Opioids: Prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine are frequently misused for their pain-relieving and euphoria-inducing effects. This misuse can lead to dependence and contribute to the broader opioid epidemic.
  • Benzodiazepines: Medications such as alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), and diazepam (Valium) are prescribed to treat anxiety and other conditions. Misuse can result in sedation, respiratory depression, and dependence.
  • Stimulants: Prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin, commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are sometimes misused for their stimulating effects. This can lead to cardiovascular issues, insomnia, and mental health concerns.

Tobacco:

The ingestion of nicotine tlu·ough smoking ( cigarettes, pipes, cigars and vaping)is highly toxic and addictive, and can result in heart disease, emphysema and cancer. Emphysema destroys the lung's capacity to expand and contract which causes decreased oxygen intake leading to organ damage. Smoking has been linked to cancers of the lung, mouth throat, pancreas, cervix, kidney, and bladder. Smoking can also affect the health of non-smokers. Environmental tobacco smoke and vaping aerosols contain many of the toxic substances the person smoking inhales. Chewing tobacco and snuff are not safe alternatives. They are highly addictive, contain more nicotine than cigarettes, and cause rapidly-spreading cancers of the mouth, head and neck.