1. DRUG CATEGORIES

2. DRUG CATEGORIES Depressants Stimulants Opioids Hallucinogens
Club Drugs
Prescription Drugs
Cannabinoids
Dissociative Drugs

3. Depressants
Depressants slow down activity in the central nervous system of your body.
These drugs are also called “downers” because they slow the body down and seem to give feelings of relaxation.
Examples: alcohol, barbiturates, Rx depressant pills

4. Stimulants
These drugs speed up the body’s nervous system and create a feeling of energy.
They are also called “uppers” because of their ability to make you feel very awake.
Examples: Cocaine, meth, Rx stimulant drugs

5. Opioids
Opioids and morphine derivatives can cause drowsiness, confusion, nausea, feelings of euphoria, respiratory complications and relieve pain.
Examples:
Heroin
Rx pain meds: oxycodone, codeine, morphine

6. Hallucinogens
These drugs change the mind and cause the appearance of things that are not really there.
Switching emotions is frequent.
Examples: LSD (acid), PCP, mushrooms

7. Club Drugs
Increased tactile sensitivity, mild hallucinogenic effects, lower inhibition
Confusion, muscle relaxation, memory loss, sedation
Examples: MDMA (ecstasy), Rohypnol, GHB

8. Prescription (Rx) Drugs
Prescription drugs can be very helpful drugs when used properly and when under the guidance of a qualified physician.
When misused, they become dangerous and have altering effects
Opioids: pain relievers
Depressants: barbiturates
Stimulants: methylphenidate (Ritalin), Adderall

9. Cannabinoids
These drugs result in feelings of euphoria, cause confusion and memory problems, anxiety, a higher heart rate, as well as staggering and poor reaction time.
Examples: Marijuana, Hashish, Spice (fake weed)

10. Dissociative Drugs
Feeling of being separate from one’s body or environment, impaired motor function, anxiety, delirium
Ketamine, PCP, Salvia, DXM

11. Why is it important to know a drug’s category/categories?
To be able to identify the signs of a drug user
To be able to help a victim of overdose
To understand the major effects of many different drugs