Types of Drugs
This type of drug speeds up the central nervous system and can make a person feel more alert and energetic.
Stimulant
Any substance that changes how the body or mind works.
Drug
This drug comes from the cannabis plant and is the most commonly used illegal drug in the U.S
Marijuana
A condition where a person cannot stop using a drug even if it causes harm.
Drug addiction
The U.S. government agency that approves medicines for safety and effectiveness.
FDA
This type of drug slows down the brain and body and can make a person feel relaxed or sleepy.
Depressant
A substance used to treat or prevent disease or illness.
Medicine
Long-term use of this drug can lead to addiction, collapsed veins from injections, and serious infections.
Heroin
The process of removing drugs from the body, often the first step of recovery.
Detoxification
Taking someone else's prescription medicine is an example of this unsafe behavior.
Drug misuse
This type of drug changes how a person sees, hears, or feels things that are not really there.
Hallucinogen
Medicine that can only be obtained with a doctor's written order.
Prescription medicine
Another name for the synthetic drug commonly known as MDMA.
Ecstasy
A place where people go to get professional help for addiction.
Rehab
Treatment center
This drug is a very powerful synthetic opioid that is used medically for severe pain but is often involved in overdoses when misused.
Fentanyl
Drugs made from the opium poppy that are often used for pain relief but can be highly addictive.
Opiate
Medicine that can be bought without a doctor’s prescription.
Over-the-counter medicine
This drug can cause a short-term “rush” of energy and confidence but may also lead to a rapid heart rate and restlessness.
Cocaine
A planned meeting where family and friends encourage someone to get help for addiction.
Intervention
Illegal fentanyl is sometimes mixed into these drugs without people knowing, increasing overdose risk.
Other drugs like heroin, cocaine, or counterfeit pills.
This drug category includes substances inhaled through the nose or mouth to create a high.
Inhalant
A physical or mental reaction caused by taking a drug or medicine.
Side effect
Long-term use of this drug can cause severe dental problems and weight loss.
Methamphetamine
A repeated experience of drug effects that occur after the drug has worn off.
Flashback
This life-saving medication can reverse an opioid overdose if given quickly.
Naloxone or Narcan