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Types of Drugs

Drugs fall into seven basic categories: alcohol, narcotics, depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, cannabis and steroids. Drugs within each category affect the body in a different way and create diverse side-effects and symptoms of use.

Using the pull down menu above, you'll find specific information on many drugs within these categories. The following guide also outlines the major details about each category of drug.

Alcohol

Alcohol is the most used drug in the United States. Alcohol is a depressant that decreases the responses of the central nervous system and creates a loss of coordination, staggering and slurred speech. Alcohol can also cause nerve and liver damage.

Narcotics

These drugs can be used medicinally to relieve pain but also have a high potential for abuse. They cause relaxation with an immediate "rush" but also lead to restlessness and nausea. Includes substances such as heroin and codeine.

Depressants

Depressants can also be used medicinally to relieve anxiety, irritability and tension. Like narcotics they come with a high potential for abuse. Users also develop tolerance to the drug so that as use continues they need more of the drug to get the same effects. Includes substances such as barbiturates, inhalants and benzodiazepines.

Stimulants

Stimulants are used to increase alertness, relieve fatigue, feel stronger and more decisive and are used to experience euphoric effects. They can result in increased heart rates, elevated blood pressure, loss of coordination, dizziness, hallucinations, convulsions and many other side-effects. Includes substances such as cocaine and amphetamines.

Hallucinogens

There are no known medical uses for hallucinogens, which produce multiple and dramatic behavior changes. Effects include rapidly changing feelings, hallucinations, confusion, anxiety and loss of control. Includes substances such as LSD, PCP and ecstasy.

Cannabis

Cannabis is the hemp plant from which marijuana and hashish are made. Cannabis can result in a loss of appetite, impaired memory and concentration, loss of coordination and many other side-effects.

Steroids

Steroids are synthetic compounds that can cause an increase in body weight and muscle strength as well as severe rashes, stunted growth and behavioral changes including aggressiveness.

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