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The first step to understanding anyone’s addiction is to consider the specific substance, or combination of substances, that are being abused.

There are many types of drugs, both legal and illegal, that are being misused at an alarming rate. With there being so many drug types out there, you should be mindful of the risks associated with each of them.

There are several main types of drugs that can be categorized based upon their effects, characteristics, and risk.

We're going to cover the following types of drugs:

• Stimulants
• Depressants
• Hallucinogens
• Alcohol
• Prescription Drugs
• Opioids
• Solvents & Inhalants
• Sedatives & Benzodiazepine
• Amphetamines
• Steroids
• Over the Counter Painkillers
• Headshop Drugs
• Cannabis
• Synthetic Drugs / New Psychoactive Substances & Dissociatives

A stimulant is a substance that increases the level of physiological or nervous activity throughout the body. These are often used recreationally or as performance enhancing drugs, as they provide the user with more energy and a heightened level of awareness and. Abuse of stimulants can lead to negative cardiovascular conditions as well as damage to the neurological system.

Stimulates can be dangerous as they might create a sense of euphoria or invincibility, causing the user to participate in risky behavior. When someone has consumed too much of a stimulant, it may cause anxiety and nervousness, leading to panic attacks or violent outbreaks. In addition, many stimulants are used in conjunction with alcohol which leads to even further damage to the nervous system and can create an altered perception of reality.

Popular stimulants include:

• Adderall
• Cocaine
• Caffeine
• Ecstasy
• MDMA
• Ephedrine
• Methamphetamine
• Nicotine
• Pseudoephedrine
• Dexedrine
• Ritalin
• Concerta
• Desoxyn
• Crack cocaine
• Daytrana
• Methylin
• Marax
• Quadrinal
• Fioricet

Depressants, also known as downers, are drugs that lower stimulation in the brain and central nervous system, creating a relaxed and sometimes euphoric feeling. In contrast to stimulants, they slow down reflexes and level of arousal. Depressants can be dangerous as they negatively affect motor skills, lower inhibitions, and can cause the body to shut down completely if they are abused.

Depressants can be found in the form of legal prescription drugs or as illicit substances. They negatively affect cognitive abilities and memory function and can often lead to what is known as a “blackout,” where the user can’t remember certain periods of time or even an entire night. In other cases, the user may pass out or faint, so these are dangerous to use when driving or operating heavy machinery.

Some of the most commonly used depressants include:

• Alcohol
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines
• Cannabis
• Vicodin
• Heroin
• Morphine
• Codeine
• Hydrocodone
• Oxycodone
• Valium
• Klonopin
• Xanax
• Ambien
• Halcion

Hallucinogens are drugs that can cause hallucinations due to their psychoactive properties. These can be dangerous as they make the user disassociated from reality and can have extreme effects on thoughts, emotions, and levels of consciousness. They are particularly dangerous in those who may be suffering from mental illnesses. They may create images and sounds that feel real even though they are not.

Hallucinogens have been around for centuries, and many ancient tribes have been known to use them to put the user on a spiritual journey. While that purpose still exists across the world, many younger people use them to “trip,” which is a psychedelic experience that puts them in an altered state of consciousness. They may be excited to see new, crazy things that aren’t there or to feel euphoric or disassociated.

The danger of these trips is that they are highly unregulated and can last for hours at a time. In fact, some very strong hallucinogens have been known to have effects that can last for 2 to 3 days. This is dangerous for anybody that has responsibilities or health issues, as there is not much that can be done to get out of the “trip” other than simply waiting for the drug to wear off. This is expecially stressful in the event of a “bad trip,” when the user experiences negative emotions and may even see and hear frightening things that don’t exist.

Popular hallucinogens include:

• LSD
• Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms)
• Peyote
• DMT
• PCP
• Ketamine
• DXM
• Ayahuasca
• Salvia Divinorum
• N-Bomb
• GHB

Alcohol is by far the most commonly consumed and thus most commonly abused drugs in the world. The ethanol in alcoholic beverages has a relaxing, psychoactive effect that may act as a mood enhancer, social lubricant, and anti-anxiety treatment. However, these so-called positive effects are heavily outweighed by the health issues and addiction potential that are inherent within alcohol.

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system and the brain, leading to deteriorated motor skills and lowered inhibitions. This increases the chance of personal harm or engaging in risky, unhealthy behavior. Alcohol addiction is a widespread problem, and the withdrawal for those who are dependent on it can be extremely intense, long-lasting, and painful. In fact, it is one of the few drugs whose withdrawal can cause death.

Because alcohol is legal in the vast majority of the world, it is highly regulated and there are many different kinds that can be enjoyed by people. The upside here is that you are less likely to get a bad batch of something. However, the fact that it is so easy to obtain makes abuse and dependency more likely.

Here are some of the most common types of alcohol available:

• Beer
• Wine
• Vodka
• Whiskey
• Scotch
• Bourbon
• Cider
• Gin
• Rum
• Everclear

Prescription drugs are substances that can be legally obtained from a pharmacy with the use of a prescription from a doctor. They are only legal to use for those who have the prescription, but they have a high potential for abuse due to how easy they are to obtain. Prescription drugs have a variety of effects and can range from stimulants to depressants and mood-enhancing drugs.

It is common for younger people to sell and share prescription drugs to their friends. This is a dangerous practice, because nobody knows how much of a particular substance they can tolerate. That is why a doctor will not re-fill certain prescriptions up to a particular date. It is a method to try to curb the potential for abuse. Prescription drugs should always be used only by the person to whom they are prescribed and only in the matter that is outlined by the pharmacist. Any other use of them is extremely dangerous and can cause long-term health problems.

Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:

• Codeine
• Morphine
• Ambien
• OxyContin
• Vicodin
• Adderall
• Ritalin
• Xanax
• Atican
• Methadone
• Fentanyl
• Percocet
• Demerol
• Concerta
• Ambien

The opioid crisis has had a major effect on people of all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. Due to the prevalence of prescription opioids, many patients are given these substances for pain without understanding their long-term addictive effects.

Opioids are partially synthesized substances whose active ingredients are created chemically. Opiates, on the other hand, are drugs that derive naturally from poppy plants—such as opium, morphine, and codeine.

The common effects of these substances range from feelings of relaxation and happiness to nausea, confusion, drowsiness, and delayed breathing patterns. Regardless, when used improperly, all opioids can have drastic short- and long-term effects.

Some commonly abused opioids (and opiates) include:

• Codeine
• Hydrocodone
• Methadone
• Morphine
• Oxycodone
• Hydromorphone
• Fentanyl
• Heroin
• Opium

Often times patients are prescribed opiates to recover from surgery or manage severe, chronic pain. Nevertheless, both legally prescribed and illegally distributed opioids can have drastic effects on those who use them.

Some people have been thrust into a lifetime of opioid use under the recommendation of a physician or pain management specialist. Without recognizing the potential for long-term addiction, objectively “innocent” people have found themselves facing the severe consequences of addiction and withdrawal.

Many patients who are legally prescribed opioids for pain end up struggling with addiction after ingesting their recommended dosage. This leads some people to buy similar substances on the street, such as heroin.

Luckily, national and global attention has been given to the opioid. Many drugs companies, health care providers, and physicians are being forced to re-think the methods that they use for pain management and surgical recovery procedures.

Solvents and “inhalants” are drugs that produce their effects when they are breathed in through the nose or mouth. These are not to be confused with substances that are smoked or vaporized, such as tobacco, marijuana, or crack.

Solvents, unlike drugs that are heated up or smoked, are inhaled at room temperature or administered from a pressurized container. Though inhalants are sometimes prescribed by a doctor, such as using nitrous oxide for dental procedures, the main inhalants that tend to be abused are common items that can be purchased over-the-counter.

The activities of “huffing” or “sniffing glue” are more common among young users who may not have access to other mind-altering drugs. The availability of these items to the general public enables the abuse of everyday household objects—such as aerosol hair spray, whipped cream, nail polish remover, permanent markers, and more.

Some commonly abused solvents include:

• Gasoline
• Paint Thinner
• Cement
• Model-Glue
• Aerosols
• Propellants
• Propane
• Butane Gas
• Nitrous Oxide
• Acetone
• Alkyl Nitrates (or “poppers”)

When inhaled, solvents can produce effects that vary from euphoria to vivid hallucinations. Aside from their “desired” qualities, the use of inhalants can lead to severe side effects. Those who abuse solvents run the risk of respiratory depression, severe sedation, vomiting, and even death.

Luckily, many states and international government organizations have put regulations into place that restrict minors from purchasing commonly abused inhalants.

Sedatives, often classified as “tranquilizers,” include both benzodiazepines and barbiturates. Clinically, these drugs are used to treat several conditions including anxiety, seizures, panic attacks, and sleep disorders.

Though the prescription of barbiturates is less frequent in today’s medical landscape, benzodiazepines (or “benzos”) are commonly prescribed to patients of all ages. Though these substances can effectively reduce a patient’s day-to-day symptoms, it’s crucial to recognize any medications addictive properties.

Some commonly abused sedatives include:

• Valium
• Ativan
• Xanax
• Clonazepam
• Ambien
• Pentobarbital
• Amobarbital
• Lunesta
• Limbitrol
• Lunesta

Many of the negative side effects caused by sedatives can be easily observed. Those who are suffering from abuse of this drug may suffer from drowsiness, slurred speech, lack of concentration, weakness, and difficulty breathing.

Benzodiazepines are also known to have one of the most severe withdrawal periods. People who cease use of this medication, whether prescribed or purchased illegally, can face a variety of negative symptoms including sleep disruption, panic attacks, tremors, sweating, nausea, and muscular pain.

Amphetamines are psychostimulant drugs, which means they speed up the messages travelling between the brain and the body.

Some types of amphetamines are prescribed by doctors to treat conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (where a person has an uncontrollable urge to sleep). Amphetamines have also been used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Other types of amphetamines, such as speed, are produced and sold illegally. Amphetamines have been also been taken as performance enhancement drugs. The most potent form is crystal methamphetamine (ice).

For generations, steroids have been used to build and repair muscle tissue. Additionally, steroids require a combination of dieting and exercise to perform properly. Some steroids are found naturally in the body, but the reference of steroid use most commonly refers to man-made substances.

Whether used to recover from injury or to enhance performance, the use of steroids is most common among athletes, body-builders, and those who have professions that require physical strength.

However, corticosteroids are prescribed to treat inflammatory conditions such as asthma and arthritis.

Anabolic steroids, those commonly used as “performance enhancers,” can be ingested orally or injected. Physically and behaviorally, these drugs are meant to imitate the male hormone of testosterone. Consequently, most users tend to face physical and behavior changes as a result.

Some commonly abused steroids include:

• Oxandrin
• Dianabol
• Turinabol
• Trenbolone
• Winstrol
• Deca-Durabolin
• Anadrol
• Equipoise

When someone starts abusing steroids, negative side-effects can include mood swings, aggression, acne, lowered immune system, and difficulty sleeping. Abusing these substances can also cause detrimental harm, including heart attack, stroke, and premature death.

As a result of steroid abuse among countless athletes, many sports organizations implement testing and policies that discourage drug use. Those who have a profession that focuses on strength, appearance, and physical performance, are at risk of developing an unhealthy dependence on steroids.

Over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers are widely misused by people of all ages. However, a distinction must be made between drugs used as a pain-reliever versus those that alter the user’s mental state.

Pain killers sold over-the-counter include basic aspirin capsules, as well as medications that contain ibuprofen, such as Advil or Aleve.

Overall, these drugs are commonly over-injested by those with chronic pain. Often times users are less affected by medication that they take in excess. Therefore, people take more and more of a particular substance in order to consistently reduce their pain. As a result, over 100,000 people are hospitalized each year from over-toxicity from OTC pain killers.

Though many people don’t think twice when over-ingesting medication to reduce their pain, the effects faced over time can be dangerous. Taking these drugs in conjunction with other medications or alcohol can also be detrimental. Those who are excessive users of OTC pain killers may suffer from nausea, vomiting, stomach ulcers, bleeding, or even death.

With an epidemic of drug-related crime and arrests, many people have sought out legal ways to get high. However, the drugs provided by headshops and corner stores are in no way safer than illicit substances.

These over-the-counter substances that imitate cannabis include drugs such as “Spice” and “K2.” Kratom is a substance commonly used to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms. Methoxetamine

Essentially, these packages include plant particles that have been chemically sprayed to alter their effects. Headshop drugs are often smoked or ingested in tea or baked goods. However, heavy users have been known to inject some of these substances for an added effect.

Lack of regulations and industry accountability can make these drugs a risky choice for those who may mistake legality for safety. Despite their accessibility, countless medical journals and customers have reported negative side effects that include dizziness, confusion, nausea, respiratory depression, and seizures.

Marijuana is among the most commonly used drugs. Chronic users can be found among every age, race, and socioeconomic status. As a result, “smoking pot” has made its way into popular culture.

Whether smoked, vaporized, or ingested, marijuana use can cause negative effects that include paranoia, apathy, tiredness, confusion, and altered judgment.

Often referred to as “designer drugs,” synthetic drugs are found in excess within clubs, raves, and various party “scenes.” New psychoactive mixtures are being crafted by individuals who package them in bags, capsules, or liquid form. Therefore, nobody purchasing these drugs can be totally certain what they’re about to ingest.

Experimental drugs tend to be taken – as a clear error in judgement – by those who are already abusing other drugs and alcohol. Though all addictive substances should be avoided, the unpredictable nature of synthetic drugs makes them particularly dangerous.

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is a prescription drug that is also manufactured illegally and sometimes mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA, all of which can be very dangerous

• Effects: Fentanyl produces feelings of extreme happiness, drowsiness, nausea, confusion, constipation, sedation, tolerance, addiction, respiratory depression and arrest, unconsciousness, coma, and death.
• Risks:
  
  • Overdose: Because fentanyl is so potent, it is very easy to overdose, even for people who have used opioids before.
  • Mixing with other drugs: Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, and people may not be aware that they are taking it, which increases the risk of overdose.
  • Illegal fentanyl: Illegal fentanyl may be even more dangerous than prescription fentanyl because it is not regulated and may be mixed with other substances.

Here are some additional things to know about fentanyl:

• It can be prescribed in a number of forms, including patches, lozenges, and injectables.
• It is typically used to treat severe pain, such as pain after surgery or chronic pain from cancer.
• People who misuse fentanyl may take it by snorting, smoking, injecting, or swallowing it.
• Fentanyl addiction can develop quickly, and withdrawal symptoms can be severe.

If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, there are resources available to help. Please seek help from a healthcare professional or call a helpline.