Substances Glossary

Adderall is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy, but it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. It is a stimulant that combines amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Because of its inherent dangers, it’s classified as a Schedule II Controlled Substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in part because it is readily available and its use is socially acceptable. However, alcoholism kills tens of thousands of people in the US every year. Alcohol abuse disorder is diagnosed and treated in the same way as other illicit drug use if it becomes detrimental to one’s health and well-being.

Known generically as namezolpidem tartrate, Ambien is a sedative prescribed to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. Since it’s a habit-forming medication, Ambien abuse and addiction is possible, especially for those with a history of substance abuse.

Ativan, also known as lorazepam, is prescribed to manage anxiety disorders. Despite its medical benefits, Ativan can be highly addictive, especially when used outside of medical supervision, and can result in significant withdrawal symptoms. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect, thus escalating the risk of addiction.

Barbiturates are prescription medications that treat anxiety and panic disorders. Since they are central nervous system depressants, they slow down the speed and volume of nervous system activity. Barbiturate abuse is common and may occur in conjunction with other substances. It’s a dangerous drug to abuse because it takes a long time to eliminate it from the body even after the effects have worn out, making overdose more likely.

Benzodiazepines are typically used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, acting as a nervous system depressant. Commercially known as Xanax or Valium, these drugs can also create feelings of euphoria when taken at high doses, which increases their potential for abuse and addiction.

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Classified as a Schedule II substance by the DEA, it has immediate and severe effects on the nervous system, creating a rush of euphoria and alertness while also increasing heart rate and blood pressure.

Cyclobenzaprine, also known as Flexeril, is a potent muscle relaxant that can treat severe muscle pain or spasms. Even though the potential for abuse and addiction on its own is relatively low, it can be used to enhance other drugs’ effects.

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) is both a stimulant and psychedelic that is abused because it creates feelings of intense euphoria. Also known as Ecstasy and Molly, it is classed as a dangerous Schedule I drug by the DEA with a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is used to treat severe pain, having an immediate and powerful effect. Despite its medical use, fentanyl is also commonly manufactured illicitly or taken without a prescription for its powerful narcotic effect.

Gabapentin is a prescription anticonvulsant and pain reliever that is often abused for its mild high which causes a sense of relaxation that is similar to marijuana. Even though it is not particularly powerful, it is sometimes taken in conjunction with other drugs to enhance their effects.

Heroin is an opioid that is synthesized from morphine, having a depressant effect on the nervous system. It’s commonly injected, snorted, or smoked to produce a rush of euphoria and sense of deep relaxation. Since it has no acceptable medical use, it is classed as a Schedule I drug.

Inhalants refer to substances that are inhaled to achieve a high. These substances are typically found in the household such as glue, sprays, cleaning products, and gas. Inhalants are a common drug of abuse in teenagers. Inhaling or “huffing” can cause long-term neurological and psychological damage.

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic used for pain relief and sedation in both humans and animals. Its use in veterinary medicine earned it the nickname “horse tranquilizer,” though it’s used in various doses. It can cause feelings of detachment, mild hallucinations, and euphoria—effects that have led to its misuse as a recreational drug.

Khat is a stimulant derived from an evergreen flower tree. It contains two psychoactive drugs that are controlled substances: cathine and cathinone. These compounds not only have a stimulant effect but are also used to make synthetic stimulants like bath salts, which can lead to symptoms like psychosis and aggression.

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), more commonly known as acid, is an illicit substance that causes hallucinations and mood changes. It is considered a Schedule I drug because it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Long-term use is linked to mental health issues such as mood dysregulation, hallucination flashbacks, and demotivation.

Marijuana is a commonly abused substance that is derived from the Cannabis plant. The psychoactive component in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which is what causes the drug’s high. Although its medical and recreational use has been legalized in some states, it is still considered a Schedule I substance at the federal level.

Methamphetamine is a potent and addictive stimulant that is associated with an intense high that comes on suddenly. Also known as meth, it can cause serious adverse effects on the body including the potential for stroke or organ failure.

Painkillers, including both prescription opioids and over-the-counter medications, are used to manage pain but can be highly addictive. Misuse of these substances can lead to severe physical dependence and addiction, posing significant health risks and often requiring professional treatment to overcome. The abuse of painkillers can also result in devastating personal and social consequences, affecting relationships and quality of life.

Prescription drugs can lead to addiction even if they’re initially taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Prescription drugs include stimulants, opioids, and depressants. Despite being prescribed for legitimate medical reasons, their improper use can create dangerous addiction and may even lead to overdose.

Some mushrooms have a hallucinogenic effect if they contain psilocybin. The psychoactive chemical psilocybin has a dramatic effect on the nervous system, altering sense perception and emotional response. Prolonged use can increase its potential dangers, like changes to the senses, flashbacks, and tiredness.

Trazodone is a prescription antidepressant and sedative that is used effectively to treat many many health conditions. However, it may be abused for its mood-elevating and relaxing effects. Though it is not a drug associated with physical dependence, psychological dependence is possible with long-term use.

Opioids include any substances that have an effect on opioid receptors in the nervous system. These substances alleviate pain and can produce euphoric sensations when taken at high doses. Many prescription painkillers are opioids including: Oxycodone, Morphine, Codeine and Hydrocodone. Abuse and addiction of such drugs has led to a rise in opioid-related deaths in the US.

Xanax is a prescription medication commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. While effective for short-term relief, it carries a high risk of dependence and addiction if misused, leading to serious health consequences. Prolonged use or abuse can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, making it crucial to seek professional help for addiction.

Xylazine is a veterinary tranquilizer not approved for human use, yet it has been found mixed with other illicit drugs. Its misuse can lead to severe health complications, including respiratory issues and even death, making it extremely dangerous. The presence of Xylazine in street drugs adds an unpredictable and hazardous element, increasing the risk of overdose.