Designer Drugs (Drug Library)

Robbins, Paul R.

ISBN 10: 0894904884 ISBN 13: 9780894904882

Publisher: Enslow Pub Inc, 1995

Synopsis

Discusses the history of designer drugs, who uses them, their legal status, effects on the body and the mind, addiction, and other problems

About this title

Reviews

Grade 7 Up-Robbins warns of the growing popularity of synthetic chemical spin-offs among young people, describing the development and effects of such compounds as MPTP, speed, ice, ecstasy, and the fentanyl analogs. He presents factors (including heredity, psychological motivations, family, and society) that put youth at risk, suggesting that a "traditional" upbringing shields children from early exposure to drugs. The introduction and first chapter are not as clearly written as the rest of the book. The former relies on sensationalism to interest readers, and the latter gives a confusing explanation of the relationship of the "designer drugs" to one another. Also, the chemical diagrams are poorly integrated into the narrative, and some of the black-and-white photographs are of poor quality. The author refers to many research studies; his discussions of them are sometimes too detailed and lengthy. Despite its faults, this title deserves credit for its intelligent presentation of how young people drift or are enticed into the world of street drugs. Paula Goodman and Gabriel Koz's Designer Drugs (Chelsea, 1988) treats the subject in far greater depth.
Libby K. White, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 7^-12. Unlike heroin and cocaine, which are derived from plants, designer drugs are synthetic substances made by "kitchen chemists," who often work secretly. In this new entry in the Drug Library series, Robbins explores the growing problem associated with these drugs, looking first at the drugs themselves, then at the ways their use affects the family, society, and the individual abuser. Each chapter begins with a list of questions to generate thought and action, with the final chapter offering information on obtaining help. Robbins acknowledges legitimate use for the substances, but he delivers a strong and clear message regarding abuse. Charts, diagrams, and photos add depth; notes and a bibliography are appended. Patricia Braun

Edition details

• Publisher: Enslow Pub Inc
• Publication date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0894904884
• ISBN 13: 9780894904882
• Binding: Library Binding
• Number of pages: 104