A Guide to Selected Psychoactive Drugs

Alcohol Type

Depressant

Alcohol Pleasurable Effects

Initial high followed by relaxation and disinhibition

Alcohol Adverse Effects

Depression, memory loss, organ damage, impaired reactions

Heroin Type

Depressant

Heroin Pleasurable Effects

Rush of euphoria, relief from pain

Heroin Adverse Effects

Depressed physiology, agonizing withdrawal

Caffeine Type

Stimulant

Caffeine Pleasurable Effects

Increased alertness and wakefulness

Caffeine Adverse Effects

Anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia in high doses; uncomfortable withdrawal

Methamphetamine Type

Stimulant

Methamphetamine Pleasurable Effects

Euphoria, alertness, energy

Methamphetamine Adverse Effects

Irritability, insomniat hypertension, seizures

Cocaine Type

Stimulant

Cocaine Pleasurable Effects

Rush of euphoria, confidence energy

Cocaine Adverse Effects

Cardiovascular stress, suspiciousness, depressive crash

Nicotine Type

Stimulant

Nicotine Pleasurable Effects

Arousal and relaxation, sense of well-being

Nicotine Adverse Effects

Heart disease, cancer

Ecstasy (MDMA) Type

Stimulant; mild hallucinogen

Ecstasy (MDMA) Pleasurable Effects

Emotional elevation, disinhibition

Ecstasy (MDMA) Adverse Effects

Dehydration, overheating, depressed mood, impaired cognitive and immune functioning

Marijuana Type

Mild hallucinogen

Marijuana Pleasurable Effects

Enhanced sensation, relief of pain, distortion of time, relaxation

Marijuana Adverse Effects

Impaired learning and memory, increased risk of psychological disorders, lung damage from smoke