CLASSIFICATION OF DRUGS

Types of Recreational Drugs

Researchers usually classify drugs into anywhere from four to six categories: Stimulants Depressants (Sedatives) Hallucinogens Narcotics Inhalants Cannabis

Stimulants Drugs that stimulate the

nervous system

Drug Type Examples Effects Negative effects

Stimulants

Nicotine, caffeine, cocaine, amphetamines, crystal meth

Increased alertness and energy, excitation, euphoria, confidence

Anxiety, restlessness, irritability, sleeplessness, paranoia, increased aggressiveness, feelings of panic

Depressants Also called sedatives; drugs that

slow down the central nervous system

Drug Type Examples Effects Negative effects

DepressantsAlcohol, Valium, Xanax, barbiturates

Euphoria, relaxation, less anxiety

Impaired coordination, depression, lethargy, drowsiness, mood swings

Hallucinogens Drugs that cause sensory

and perceptual distortions

Drug Type Examples Effects Negative effects

HallucinogensLSD, mescaline, psilocybin

Euphoria, changed perception, hallucinations, insightful moments

Nausea, paranoia, anxiety, feelings of panic, mood swings, impaired judgment, jumbled thoughts

Narcotics Also called opiates; drugs

that can relieve pain

Drug Type Examples Effects Negative effects

NarcoticsMorphine, heroin, opium, codeine, hydrocodone

Euphoria, relaxation, less anxiety, less sensitivity to pain

Lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, impaired coordination, constipation

Inhalants Drugs that are breathed into

the lungs

Drug Type Examples Effects Negative effects

Inhalants

cleaning solutions, nail polish removers, gasoline, room fresheners, glue, and ether

Euphoria, changed perception

Impaired brain functioning

Cannabis Drugs derived from the

cannabis plant; have features of more than one of the other drugs types

Drug Type Examples Effects Negative effects

Cannabis Marijuana, hashish

Euphoria, relaxation, increased awareness, changed perception

Sluggishness, anxiety, impaired memory