Drugs

 

HAGAM Drugs picture

A drug, broadly speaking, is any chemical substance that, when absorbed into the body of a living organism, alters normal bodily function.

Different drugs have different effects, much depends on:

  • The drug, its purity and the quantity taken;
  • The mental and physical health of the user;
  • Their mood and expectations;
  • Where they are and who they're with at the time.

However, some drugs work in similar ways, and can be divided into broad categories:

Stimulants

Drugs which act on the central nervous system and increase brain activity. i.e. cocaine, speed, poppers, anabolic steroids, ecstasy and tobacco.

Depressants

Drugs which act on the central nervous system and slow down brain activity. i.e. alcohol, tranquillisers and solvents.

Hallucinogens

Drugs which act on the mind, distorting the way users see and hear things, i.e. LSD, magic mushrooms, cannabis and ketamine.

Analgesics

Drugs which have a painkilling effect and which can also bring on feelings of warmth and contentment, i.e. heroin, morphine and opium.