What Are the Different Types of Drugs?

Drugs are often categorized based on the effects they produce. In this article, we shall understand what are the different types of drugs, each with its own set of characteristics, effects, risks, and dangers. These categories include stimulants, depressants, opioids, psychedelics, inhalants, cannabinoids, dissociatives, and empathogens.

One of the most devastating truths about drug abuse is that often you will be completely unaware of the dangers and long-term risks of substance abuse. If you or someone you love is suffering from an addiction it is important to speak in confidence to a trained professional who can better assess the situation and make the appropriate treatment recommendations.

Download Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about our comprehensive services. Get started on your journey towards a healthier, happier life today!

Download Now

Stimulants

Stimulants are some of the most commonly abused drugs in the world. Referred to as ‘uppers’, they produce instant feelings of euphoria, confidence, and alertness. Stimulants are habit-forming, highly addictive, and can cause severe physical and psychological dependence and addiction. Different types of stimulants include caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamine, and prescription stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin. Medicinal stimulants are typically prescribed for disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, anxiety, and depression.

Depressants

In contrast to stimulants, depressants slow down the central nervous system. The most commonly known depressant is alcohol, often used to relax and socialise. Other depressants such as Xanax, are prescribed by doctors for people who suffer from anxiety, OCD, insomnia, and other medical conditions that prevent an individual from being able to fully relax. This classification of drugs often gives you the experience of being sedated, making them a key choice for those who suffer from a lot of stress in their life.

Opioids

Opioids are a classification of drugs derived from the opium plant, a chemical that naturally occurs in poppy seeds and other plants. Opioids can be pure, synthetic and/or semi-synthetic. Commonly used as painkillers, they produce a sense of euphoria. They are often prescribed by doctors to people who are suffering from intense and chronic pain. They are incredibly habit-forming and addiction can occur quickly.

Psychedelics

Also referred to as hallucinogens, this classification of drug is often taken for a spiritual awakening experience. Drugs such as LSD and magic mushrooms or truffles, affect the brain in a way that gives you experiences that appear out of this world, literally distorted from reality.

Inhalants

Many other types of drugs can be inhaled, however, when referring to inhalants we are talking about household items that can be inhaled. The high may differ from inhalant to inhalant and most abusers will try and get their hands on an everyday household item to get high. These items include aerosol sprays, room deodorisers, sharpie markers, paint thinner, gasoline, glue, and paint, to name a few.

Cannabinoids

One of the most commonly used drugs in the world, cannabis acts as a hallucinogen and can also produce depressant-like side effects. Most commonly recognised as marijuana, there has been growing legalisation of this classification of a drug as the medical community has embraced the drug having medical benefits to people suffering from anxiety, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and other medical conditions.

Dissociatives

This classification of drugs, such as Ketamine, distorts your perception of reality and causes you to dissociate, hence the name. They may feel they are watching themselves from outside their bodies, a common experience mentioned in PTSD sufferers. These drugs can give the individual a false sense of invincibility encouraging them to participate in risky behaviour.

Empathogens

Also referred to as entactogens, empathogens increase a person’s feeling of being connected to others. They affect the brain by causing a release of dopamine and serotonin. Typically found in pill form they can also come crystallised or in capsule form and are usually swallowed, but can be snorted or rectally administered, also known as shelved.

Getting Help for Drug Addiction

Abusing any type of substance can lead to catastrophic consequences. If you or someone you know is exhibiting dangerous behaviour such as driving under the influence you should seek help immediately.

Location and travel can often deter people from seeking treatment. Fortunately, CATCH Recovery London can help whether you live in the South East of England, elsewhere in the UK, or abroad. Our Telehealth service allows patients to participate in therapy sessions remotely.