[Recreational and designer drugs-the risks to heart and brain]

Abstract

The recreational and designer drugs (e. g. cannabis, amphetamines, ecstasy, cocaine) used preferentially by young people across all social levels, have a considerable, even life-threatening, risk potential. Depending on the individual substance, an increase in blood pressure or heart rate, arrhythmias, anginal symptoms extending right up to infarction, or even sudden heart death are all possible. Particular risks are associated with the combined use of several substances or their combination with alcohol and/or nicotine.