Drugs – Basic 6 Basic Technology Lesson Note (First Term)

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Explain the meaning of drugs
• Describe the types of drugs
• Analyze the importance of drugs

Content

What are Drugs? Drugs are substances (chemicals) that can change how the body works when taken into the body. They can be used to treat illnesses or can be harmful if misused.

Types of Drugs

1. SYNTHETIC DRUGS (Man-made) These are drugs made in laboratories by scientists and pharmaceutical companies.

Examples:

• Paracetamol (for pain and fever)
• Aspirin (for pain)
• Antibiotics like Amoxicillin (for infections)
• Chloroquine (for malaria)
• Cough syrups
• Vitamin tablets

2. NATURALLY OCCURRING DRUGS (From nature) These are drugs obtained from plants, animals, or minerals.

Examples:

• Quinine (from cinchona tree – treats malaria)
• Morphine (from opium poppy – pain relief)
• Herbs like ginger, garlic (medicinal plants)
• Honey (from bees – antibacterial)
• Aloe vera (from plant – healing)
• Cod liver oil (from fish)

Forms of Drugs

1. Tablets/Pills (swallowed)
2. Capsules (swallowed)
3. Syrups/Liquids (drunk)
4. Injections (into body with needle)
5. Creams/Ointments (applied on skin)
6. Drops (for eyes, ears, nose)

Importance of Drugs

1. Cure Diseases – Help sick people get well
2. Relieve Pain – Reduce suffering and discomfort
3. Prevent Illnesses – Vaccines prevent diseases
4. Control Diseases – Manage chronic conditions like diabetes
5. Save Lives – Emergency drugs save lives
6. Improve Health – Vitamins improve overall health
7. Fight Infections – Antibiotics kill harmful bacteria
8. Reduce Fever – Help bring down high temperature

Proper Use of Drugs

1. Take drugs only when prescribed by a doctor
2. Follow the correct dosage (amount)
3. Complete the full course of treatment
4. Check expiry dates before use
5. Store drugs properly (cool, dry place)
6. Keep drugs away from children
7. Never share prescription drugs
8. Read instructions on labels

Dangers of Improper Drug Use

• Taking wrong drugs can harm you
• Overdose can cause serious illness or death
• Taking someone else’s drugs is dangerous
• Expired drugs can be harmful

Activities

• Identify different drug forms
• Read drug labels and instructions
• Discuss experiences with taking medicine
• Role-play: visiting a pharmacy