A to Z of drugs

Alcohol

Alcohol is classed as a depressant. However, at low doses it acts as a mild stimulant. ...read more

Amphetamines

  Amphetamines are commonly known as speed or go-eey in New Zealand. ...read more

Benzodiazepines

  Benzodiazepines (sometimes called ‘benzos') are depressants that work by slowing down the messages going to and from the brain to the body,......read more

Cannabis

  Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in New Zealand. Cannabis is a depressant drug. ...read more

Cocaine

  Cocaine is a drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant which is found mainly in Peru and Bolivia. ...read more

Ecstasy

  Ecstasy or MDMA [MethyleneDioxyMethAmphetamine] is a stimulant because it speeds up the central nervous system. ...read more

GHB

   Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), naturally occurs in the body as a neurochemical compound. ...read more

Hallucinogens

  Hallucinogenic mushrooms Hallucinogens, also known as ‘psychedelic' drugs, are drugs that change the way a person perceives the world. ...read more

Inhalants

  Aerosol spray can Inhalants are a range of volatile substances (many of which are familiar household items) which, when vaporised and inhaled,......read more

Methamphetamine

  Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive drug that strongly activates certain systems in the brain. ...read more

Opiates

  Opiates (sometimes called ‘narcotic analgesics') include morphine, codeine, pethidine, heroin and opium. Opiates are ‘depressant' drugs. ...read more

Party pills

  Party pills are psychoactive substances that were designed to mimic the effects of illegal drugs without the addictive qualities and known negative......read more

Tobacco

There can be up to 600 additives and flavourings in a single cigarette. ...read more