Types of Substances
This legal stimulant is the most widely used psychoactive substance in the world.
What is caffeine?
This short-term effect of alcohol can impair judgment and coordination.
What is intoxication?
This brain chemical, linked to pleasure and reward, is released in large amounts by addictive substances.
What is dopamine?
Sudden changes in friends, mood, or school performance could be signs of this.
What is substance use?
This government agency regulates legal drugs and approves medications in the U.S.
What is the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)?
This commonly used substance can be smoked, vaped, or chewed and contains nicotine.
What is tobacco?
Long-term use of methamphetamine can cause this dental condition.
What is "meth mouth"?
This part of the brain, which helps with decision-making, can be affected by long-term drug use.
What is the prefrontal cortex?
This type of drug test can detect the presence of substances in a person’s system.
What is a urine test?
This term describes the illegal sale or distribution of drugs.
What is drug trafficking?
Often prescribed for pain, this class of drugs includes oxycodone and morphine.
What are opioids?
This term describes the need for more of a drug to get the same effect.
What is tolerance?
This term describes when someone can't stop using a substance despite negative consequences.
What is addiction?
Talking openly, setting clear rules, and staying involved in a teen’s life are part of this parenting strategy.
What is prevention?
This federal law established harsh penalties for drug offenses in the 1980s.
What is the Controlled Substances Act (or "War on Drugs" legislation)?
This hallucinogen, sometimes called "acid," became popular in the 1960s.
What is LSD?
This term describes the physical and mental symptoms that occur when stopping a drug.
What is withdrawal?
This treatment approach combines behavioral therapy and medications for addiction recovery.
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
This legal drinking age is enforced in the United States.
What is 21?
This program, often remembered by its slogan "Just Say No," was part of a 1980s drug prevention campaign.
What is D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)?
This substance, also known as MDMA, is often used recreationally at parties or raves.
What is ecstasy?
Overuse of alcohol over time can lead to this serious liver disease.
What is cirrhosis?
This mental health condition often occurs alongside substance use disorders.
What is a co-occurring disorder (or dual diagnosis)?
This national hotline offers free and confidential help for people with substance use issues.
What is the SAMHSA helpline (1-800-662-HELP)?
Some states have legalized this drug for recreational and/or medical use, while it remains illegal under federal law.
What is marijuana (or cannabis)?