6 Types of Psychoactive Drugs

Depressants

Depressants slow down the central nervous system. They typically cause people to feel sedated and relaxed. Some people take prescribed depressants to help with sleep or anxiety. Others abuse these substances to get high.

• Benzodiazepines include medications like Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin.
• Sedative-hypnotics include medications like Ambien and Lunesta.
• Barbiturates include medications like Nembutal and Luminal.

Alcohol is also a depressant. When you first drink, you may feel calmer and happier, but excess alcohol can cause slurring and processing problems. It can make your feelings of depression and anxiety worse.

Opioids

Opioids also act like depressants. When taken as prescribed, they can help people with moderate or severe pain. When abused, they can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Opioids include drugs like:

• Fentanyl
• Heroin
• Vicodin
• Oxycodone
• Morphine

The strength of each opioid varies, so it’s not always obvious how much you’re taking. And if you buy pills off the street, you never know exactly what you’re getting. For example, you may assume you’re buying Vicodin, but a dealer may lace the pill with fentanyl. If you stop taking opioids suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms range in severity. You could feel sick for several days before your body starts to heal. During that time, you’re at risk of relapsing. That’s because you may experience intensified cravings. Most people benefit from a supportive medical detox during this stage and then professional opioid addiction treatment once the opioids are out of their system.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase brain activity. They enhance energy and alertness. Some people are prescribed stimulants for symptoms related to ADHD or narcolepsy. Common stimulants include:

• Amphetamine
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine

When abused, stimulants can produce a euphoric rush, but a “crash” soon follows, making the user want to continue taking more drugs. Long-term abuse can result in several health complications, including:

• Tissue damage
• Stroke
• Heart attacks

Heavy stimulant users may develop withdrawal symptoms after stopping drug use. These symptoms can include:

• Depression
• Insomnia
• Fatigue

Although stimulant withdrawal is not life-threatening, medical detox can help you feel more comfortable during this time.

Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens include several drugs that alter your consciousness. Hallucinogens include drugs like: