A drug is a psychotropic substance the use of which can lead to drug addition. Drug, which is derived from the Dutch droog, signifies dry, and it is a term which covers a whole range of psychotropic substances, i.e. a substance that modifies the mind, the will and judgement, which can lead to dependency - also known as addiction. Drugs often work under the influence of one or several alkaloids, such as nicotine, which modify the synaptic transmissions. Hard or soft, drugs come in various forms and various appellations but they are present in every branch of society. Tobacco is justifiably considered as a drug because it is harmful to health and creates dependency.
Consumption of a drug, and in particular of tobacco, is frequently part of an overall malaise, a feeling of self-doubt and lack of self-confidence and repeated consumption of a drug can lead to addiction. Considered a drug, tobacco leads to dependency and is responsible for numerous physical problems (cancers, chronic bronchitis and cardiovascular accidents) which can lead to the smoker's death. Because of smoke inhalation, his or her entourage is not spared either; it creates what is called passive smoking.
The European HELP programme for fighting against tobacco can bring you a lot of information and support for giving up smoking.
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