Types of Drugs Hallucinogens, Depressants, Stimulants, Anabolic Steroids and Marijuana

5 Types of Drugs Mood altering drugs affect the body’s CNS. The CNS sends information about what we are sensing or feeling to the body. We can classify mood-altering drugs according to the specific effects they have on our minds and bodies.

Hallucinogens Acid, Mushrooms, Ecstasy Alter the users’ perceptions of the world around them, causing distortions in the way they sense their surroundings. Overdoses can pose a risk of accidents and injuries because they distort what the user experiences.

Depressants Alcohol, Opioids (Oxycodone) Slow down the CNS and reduce inhibitions. They are easy to get, but this does NOT make them harmless.

Stimulants Caffeine, Nicotine, Cocaine Speed up body systems such as the CNS, the heart and lungs. They delay fatigue and may produce hyperactivity.

Anabolic Steroids Non-medically they can help increase training endurance and build muscles. People use them to enhance athletic performance and build muscles They are illegal to use without a prescription.

Anabolic Steroids in Action:

Marijuana (Cannabis) This is a class of its own because it acts mostly as a hallucinogen, but also has depressant effects (it slows response time and affects memory) and a stimulant effect (it raises heart rate).

Types of Drug Use Non- Use: The healthiest choice because it involves no risk! Experimental Use: Occurs because of curiosity and use may only happen once. Risk is usually low but can be high. Social Use: Ongoing drug use with moderate consumption. Risk is low to moderate.

Types of Drug Use (cont.) Binge Use: A large amount of a substance at one time; even on a single occasion the risk of harm is high. Heavy Use: Ongoing use that results in problems in a person’s life. Risk of significant and lasting harm is high. Dependent Use: Compulsive and excessive use that continues despite problems in various life areas. Risk is VERY HIGH.