Drugs are substances that affect how the body or mind functions. They can be used for medical purposes—like treating illnesses or relieving pain—or for non-medical reasons, such as altering mood or perception. Drugs can be:

Legal (e.g., prescribed medications, caffeine, alcohol)

Illegal (e.g., heroin, cocaine, ecstasy)

Natural or synthetic (e.g., cannabis vs. LSD)

They can have beneficial effects when used correctly under medical supervision, but harmful or addictive effects when misused.

Legal Drugs

These are permitted by law, often used for medical or regulated recreational purposes.

Examples:

• Medicines: Paracetamol, antibiotics, insulin (when prescribed)

  
  

• Over-the-counter drugs: Cough syrup, pain relievers

  
  

• Recreational legal drugs (in some countries):

  
  

• Alcohol

  
  

• Tobacco

  
  

• Caffeine

  
  

• Cannabis (legal in some regions)

Illegal Drugs

These are banned by law due to their harmful effects, high potential for abuse, and lack of medical use (in most cases).

Examples:

• Heroin

  
  

• Cocaine

  
  

• Ecstasy (MDMA)

  
  

• Methamphetamine

  
  

• LSD

Synthetic drugs like “Spice” or “bath salts” (often classified under New Psychoactive Substances)