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Essay Archive - Drug Dependence
Drug Dependence
In order for a chemical to be considered a drug it must have the capacity to
affect how the body works--to be biologically active. No substance that has the
power to do this is completely safe, and drugs are approved only after they
demonstrate that they are relatively safe when used as directed, and when the
benefits outweigh their risks. Thus, some very dangerous drugs are approved
because they are necessary to treat serious illness. Digitalis, which causes the
heart muscle to contract, is a dangerous drug, but doctors are permitted to use
it because it is vital for treating patients whose heart muscle ....
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