This document describes how drugs affect the nervous system. It discusses several types of drugs including stimulants, depressants, cocaine, opiates, marijuana, and alcohol. Stimulants like cocaine cause the sudden release of neurotransmitters like dopamine in the brain, while depressants like alcohol decrease heart rate. Long term use of drugs can lead to addiction and dependence on the drug both physically and psychologically. Drug abuse and sharing of needles also increases the risk of transmitting diseases.