Uncover the secrets of drug use. From drug slang names to the highs and lows, to the dangers and warning signs. Get an in-depth look at drug use and abuse, including the effects, the paraphernalia to look out for, the withdrawal symptoms. Plus, how to spot if someone you know is using or abusing drugs.
All drugs have the potential to affect those who use them differently, based on the person, the drug, and its potency, which can result in abrupt changes in behaviour and appetite, disinterest in socialising, and even criminal activity to support the habit.
It's not uncommon to see drug users neglecting their grooming, and adopting irregular sleep patterns.
Additionally, drugs may lead to sudden or gradual changes in personality. However, it's important to note that some regular drug users can maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Table Of Contents (in no particular order)
- Cannabis - Marijuana
- Spice: Synthetic Cannabinoids
- Amphetamines/Speed
- LSD - Acid - Magic Mushrooms
- Ecstasy
- Cocaine
- Crack cocaine
- Solvents
- Heroin
- Resources; a 100% way to identify any drug or drug user
Cannabis - Marijuana
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Cannabis - Marijuana - Weed
Introduction. The heart of cannabis lies in its primary active ingredient, THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which provides users with a high. This flowering plant belongs to the Cannabaceae family and is available in all shades, from light brown to dark black, with varying consistencies, from soft to very hard.
How to Take Cannabis. There are several methods to enjoy cannabis, including smoking it in rolling papers with or without tobacco (unless it's hashish), using a bong or dry herb vaporiser, and incorporating it into edibles and drinks.
Cannabis Slang and Street Names. "Herbs" or "Weed", "Pot", "Dope", "Greens", "Skunk", "Bob Hope/Dope", and "Jazz-Funk/Skunk" are some of the many street names for herbal cannabis. Meanwhile, "Dope", "Solids", "Rocky", and "Soap Bar" are popular terms for hashish, with variations from Morocco, Pakistan, Jamaica, Thailand, and Amsterdam.
Cannabis Paraphernalia. Keep an eye out for rolling papers, vaporisers, lighters, grinders, bongs, and pipes, which could indicate cannabis use.
The effects and highs of cannabis. Behaviour to observe. Cannabis has a range of effects on the body and mind, and for many, it can create a feeling of happiness, relaxation, and freedom. A chill, carefree attitude. A forgetful state of mind. Bloodshot eyes (not applicable to all users). Slurred speech (when heavily stoned). Lethargy and a tendency to oversleep. Uncontrollable laughter (for newer users). A strong desire to eat (known as "the munchies"). Dark circles under the eyes.
How long does the effect of cannabis last for? For about 10 minutes to half an hour after smoking, but you may still feel stoned for a couple of hours.
The comedown of cannabis. Withdrawal symptoms. Like with any drug, there can also be negative consequences, such as withdrawal symptoms when the effects wear off. Some users may experience tiredness, grumpiness or feel agitated.
How addictive is cannabis? Cannabis is considered more of a mental addiction than a physical one. Some people can easily quit, while others struggle with old habits. It's important to note that stopping use of cannabis won't lead to any physical or mental health problems.
How dangerous is cannabis? In terms of danger, it is considered the least harmful drug. Some users experience no harmful effects, while others may encounter paranoia or psychosis.
Clues to find out if someone you know is taking cannabis. There are several clues to look out for. These include; Black, burned knives (often used to cut hard black hashish). Dark circles under the eyes. Discarded cannabis joints with green or brown lumps or dust. A cone-shaped joint that is longer than a regular cigarette. Holding smoke in for longer when inhaling a regular cigarette. Concealing the potent smell on the breath with mints or toothpaste. Use of air fresheners or incense sticks to disguise the smell. Clothing or hats with the cannabis leaf design.
Interesting cannabis facts. In Italy, Rastafarians are legally allowed to possess and smoke cannabis for religious reasons. + Cannabis is the most widely used drug globally.
“Men are always more likely to take and abuse drugs compared to women.”
Spice - Synthetic Cannabinoids
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Spice - Synthetic Cannabinoids
Introduction: Spice, often mistaken for cannabis, is a synthetic drug of dried leaves and man made chemicals that aim to mimic the effects of marijuana. Despite its dangers, it has become popular among homeless individuals and prisoners as it serves as an escape from life's hardships. It is more potent, cheaper and easier to access than natural cannabis.
How to use spice. Users consume spice in a manner similar to cannabis, either rolled with tobacco in rolling papers or smoked pure. It can also be smoked using a bong, pipe, or dry herb vaporiser.
Spice slang/street names: Spice goes by many names, including Mamba, Fake Weed, K2, K47, Arizona, Bombay Blue, Banana Cream Nuke, Pina Colada, and White Ice.
Spice paraphernalia. Items to look out for: To smoke spice, one needs rolling papers, a vaporiser, a grinder to turn buds into loose weed, bongs, pipes, or a bucket for bucket bongs.
The effects and highs of spice. Behaviour to observe. The effects of spice can be similar to those of cannabis. However, certain chemical variations can leave users in a zombie-like state, experiencing hallucinations, psychotic episodes, seizures, and aggressive behaviour.
How long does the effect of Spice last for? For about 10 minutes to half an hour after smoking, but you may still feel stoned for a couple of hours.
The comedown and withdrawal symptoms. Anxiety, sweating, headaches, depression, and insomnia.
How addictive is spice? Spice can be very addictive, causing users to feel physically ill and desperately in need of their next smoke. Its reputation is so bad that even experienced drug users tend to steer clear of it.
How dangerous is spice? The synthetic cannabinoids in spice are not only highly addictive, but also toxic to the central nervous system and lungs, causing respiratory problems and depression. In some cases, spice can even lead to unconsciousness or uncontrolled fits.
Clues to find out if someone you know is taking spice: In addition to observing the unique coned shape of spice joints and searching for green lumps or dust in discarded papers, you can also look out for excessive smoke inhalation, the use of air fresheners or incense sticks, and efforts to mask the odour through mints, tooth brushing, or toothpaste.
Interesting spice facts: Despite attempts to ban these dangerous chemicals, new legal synthetic cannabinoids are constantly emerging. Additionally, these products are often labelled "not for human consumption" for liability defence.
“People who inject drugs will have a higher risk of developing and/or contracting blood infections, abscesses, skin inflammation, hepatitis B and C, HIV and AIDS”.
Amphetamines - Speed
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Amphetamines / Speed
Introduction. Amphetamine, commonly referred to as speed, is a stimulant that can take on a white to light pink hue. It should not be mistaken for crystal meth or methylamphetamine.
How do you use Amphetamines? This substance can be consumed in many ways, including smoking, snorting, eating, rubbing on gums, adding to liquids, drinking, and injecting.
Amphetamines street/slang names. Speed and Billy (Billy Whizz), as users experience a quickening of everything they do.
Amphetamines paraphernalia. Items to look out for. Keep an eye out for black spoons, needles, rolling papers, and tobacco.
The effects and highs of amphetamine. Behaviour to observe. They may display dilated pupils, a slight euphoria, fast-talking and movement, difficulty staying still, an inability to sleep, increased energy, alertness, focus, and talkativeness.
How long does the effect of amphetamines last for? Anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the dose, method of use, and individual tolerance. The onset of effects can occur within 15 to 30 minutes if taken orally. Or within 5 to 20 minutes if taken intravenously or smoked. The lasting effects can depend on the person's age, weight, overall health, and the purity of the drug.
The comedown of amphetamine. Withdrawal symptoms: The comedown from using amphetamine can be harsh and lead to intense mood swings, depression, agitation, difficulty concentrating, paranoia, irritability, and more.
How addictive is amphetamine? With continued use, the risk of addiction and craving increases.
Clues to find out if someone you know is taking amphetamines. Look for signs such as needles, packets of white powder, needle marks on the arms or legs, small square pieces of paper (bindles/wraps), and a bitter, gritty taste compared to cocaine.
Interesting amphetamine facts. Amphetamine was first developed in the 1800s and was first used for medical purposes in the 1920s to dilate the bronchial sacs of the lungs and help those with asthma breathe easier. Some users take it to help with weight loss or to motivate themselves to tackle tasks they find challenging mentally.
“The differences between a users high and comedown will depend on which drug was taken, how much was taken, and individual sensitivities to drug effects.”
LSD (Acid) Magic Mushrooms
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How to Tell if Someone Is on LSD - Acid - Magic Mushrooms
Introduction.LSD: Lysergic Acid Diethylamide, commonly known as LSD, is a powerful hallucinogenic drug often found in the form of magic mushrooms or "acid tabs." These tiny squares of cardboard are laced with LSD and have the potential to lead to both inspirational and frightening experiences.
How do you use LSD? The raw mushrooms and acid tabs can be taken orally, either by placing the tabs under the tongue, swallowing or chewing, then eating the raw mushrooms or drinking tea made from dried mushrooms.
How long does the effect of LSD last for? Typically, 8–12 hours. However, the exact duration of the effects of LSD can vary depending on the dose, the individual's tolerance, and the person's state of mind and physical surroundings at the time of use. The effects start to become noticeable within 30–60 minutes after ingestion and reach their peak within 2–4 hours.
LSD's slang/street names. LSD is also known as "tabs," "microdots," and "shrooms."
LSD's paraphernalia. Items to look out for. Acid tabs and magic mushrooms (as shown in the images above).
The effects and highs of LSD. Behaviour to observe. When under the influence of LSD, users may display symptoms such as dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, excitability, muscle spasms, sweating, and a loss of appetite. One person's acid trip can produce very different results. Some may feel euphoric, while others might experience bad trips that make them feel panicked, suspicious and confused.
The comedown of LSD. Withdrawal symptoms. After the effects of LSD wear off, users may experience depression, fatigue, and feelings of low mood. These withdrawal symptoms are more psychological than physical.
How addictive is LSD? LSD is not considered addictive, but it can lead to psychological dependencies.
How dangerous is LSD? While LSD is generally considered a harmless drug, it can become dangerous if a user experiences a "bad trip." This can cause confusion, agitation, and anxiety if the user sees things that are not there, such as hallucinations of walls closing in or monsters attacking.
Clues to find out if someone you know is taking LSD: Look for symptoms such as dilated pupils and strange behaviour.
Interesting LSD facts: Apple co-founder Steve Jobs famously called his LSD experience "one of the most important things in my life." The famous Beatles song "I Am the Walrus", partly inspired by taking LSD, and Lewis Carroll's 1871 poem "The Walrus and the Carpenter".
“Most drug users are on a combination of drugs, resulting in a different high's, side effects and symptoms.”
Ecstasy
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Ecstasy
Introduction. MDMA (Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) known as ecstasy (the love drug) is a psychoactive substance popular among party-goers, but its use is not limited to just that. Many individuals take it for its euphoric effects, creating a sense of happiness, confidence, and intense well-being.
How to take ecstasy? The most prevalent way of taking Ecstasy is by ingesting it as a pill. Nevertheless, it is not advisable to crush the pill, mix it with water, and inject or snort it, as some individuals may do so. These methods are dangerous and not recommended.
Ecstasy slang names. E's, Letters, Jack and Jill's, Sweets, Candy, or Smarties.
Ecstasy paraphernalia. Items to look out for. While under the influence of ecstasy, some users may grind their teeth, leading to the use of pacifiers. So look out for baby dummies, which are used to prevent any damage to the teeth. Or pills with a picture or design, and not professionally made (as shown in the photo above).
Ecstasy effects & highs. Behaviour to observe. The effects of ecstasy can be observed through the dilation of pupils, a happy and confident demeanour, intense euphoria, and an irresistible urge to dance. Other symptoms include teeth clenching or grinding, sweating, increased heart rate, and an elevated body temperature.
How long does the effect of ecstasy last for? The effects of ecstasy (MDMA) can last for several hours, usually between 3 and 6 hours. However, the exact duration of the effects can vary depending on several factors, such as the individual's tolerance, the dose taken, and the purity of the drug.
The comedown of ecstasy. Withdrawal symptoms. After the effects of ecstasy have worn off, some users may experience depressive withdrawal symptoms. To counter this, some individuals may turn to cannabis or sleeping pills.
How addictive is ecstasy? Although ecstasy can provide one of the most euphoric experiences from a drug, it is one of the least addictive substances.
How dangerous is ecstasy? While ecstasy is not inherently harmful, taking pills mixed with toxic substances or laced with filler agents can lead to overdoses and even death. Additionally, injecting ecstasy is dangerous and can cause various medical problems, including abscesses, blood poisoning, and death. To ensure safety, buy ecstasy from a reputable source or have it tested.
Clues to find out if someone you know is taking ecstasy: Dilated pupils, the fragility and brittleness of ecstasy pills compared to other pharmaceutical pills, and a bitter taste are some of the indications that someone may be using ecstasy. Additionally, ecstasy users may grind their teeth and use pacifiers to prevent damage.
Interesting ecstasy facts: Correctly administered, ecstasy (MDMA) has been known to help individuals with PTSD, anxiety, and other medical conditions. American singer Lady Gaga once famously stated, “A Little MDMA never killed anybody,” though this statement is far from accurate.
“Opioids have killed the most people. They are a class of drugs that include heroin, fentanyl, and pain relievers, such as oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone, morphine and many others.
Cocaine
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Cocaine
Introduction. Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug extracted from the leaves of the Erythroxylon coca plant. It is commonly used recreationally.
How do you use cocaine? People usually consume cocaine by snorting it, rubbing it around the mouth, or smoking it in rolling papers with tobacco. Injecting cocaine is the most dangerous and lethal method of using.
Cocaine slang/street names. Coke, white, base, snow, or dust.
Cocaine paraphernalia. Items to look out for. Indicators that someone is using cocaine include short straws or rolled-up banknotes used for snorting, razor blades used to cut lumps into a finer powder, tobacco and rolling papers for smoking, needles for injecting, and a small mirror with white powder residue.
The effects and highs of cocaine. Behaviour to observe: individuals may experience feelings of elation, confidence, positivity and may become more outgoing and talkative. Sniffing and rubbing the nose frequently is also a common sign of cocaine use. In some cases, cocaine can also lead to aggressive or overconfident behaviour.
How long does the effect of cocaine last for? The effects can typically last between 15 and 30 minutes when taken in its purest form. However, the exact duration of the effects can vary depending on the individual's tolerance, the dose taken, and the method of administration.
The comedown of cocaine. Withdrawal symptoms: After using cocaine, users may experience withdrawal symptoms such as depression, low mood, a runny nose, and flu-like symptoms.
How addictive is cocaine? The level of addiction varies based on the method of use. Smoking cocaine in a roll-up is the least addictive, while snorting is more addictive, and injecting is highly addictive.
How dangerous is cocaine? Cocaine is a highly dangerous and addictive drug. It can cause serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory failure, as well as mental health issues such as anxiety, paranoia, and depression. Regular use can also lead to addiction and damage to the nasal cavity if snorted. Additionally, cocaine is often cut with other dangerous substances, increasing the risk of overdose and death.
Clues to find out if someone you know is on cocaine. Look for: dilated pupils, needle marks on the arms or legs, frequent sniffing, white powder around the nose, discarded paper wraps used to hold the powder, white residue on mirrors or flat surfaces, contents of hand-rolled cigarette butts, a numb mouth, tongue, or gums. Note; some manufacturers or dealers may add powders such as benzocaine or lidocaine to cause numbness.
Cocaine interesting facts. The same parts of the brain are activated by both being in love and using cocaine? + It has also been a popular drug among celebrities for many years. + Cocaine was once an ingredient in many medicinal tonics, including the popular drink Coca-Cola.
“People who live with mental health conditions are more likely to abuse drug, which puts them at a higher risk of becoming addicted.”
Crack cocaine
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How to tell if someone Is on crack cocaine
Introduction. is a crystallised form of cocaine that has been processed to create a hard, light yellowish substance. The process involves heating cocaine with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to create a potent form of the drug.
How do you use crack? Crack can be used in rolling papers and smoked like regular smoke, and smoked (piped) through a plastic bottle with a makeshift hole in the side, and a small tube attached to it. And smoked in pipes of various sizes and shapes.
Crack slang/street names. Crack goes by many street names, including "white," "base," "nuggets," "rocks," and "white solids."
Crack paraphernalia. Items to look out for. Cocaine. Black (underside of) spoons. Bicarbonate of soda. Lighter. Rolling papers. Plastic bottles with a hole in the side (used for piping/smoking crack) Pipes of various sizes and styles. Silver foil (to place on the plastic bottle top to smoke/pipe it).
The effects and highs of crack. Behaviour to observe. Crack use can result in dilated pupils and a euphoric feeling. However, this intense high can lead to lying, stealing, and other negative behaviour to obtain more of the drug.
How long does the effect of crack last for? The onset of injecting cocaine is 10 to 15 seconds, and the high lasts between 5 and 15 minutes.
The comedown of crack. Withdrawal symptoms. The aftermath of crack use can include depression, paranoia, difficulty sleeping and eating, and a desperate desire for another hit.
How addictive Is crack? Crack cocaine is highly addictive, both physically and psychologically. The intense high from crack cocaine can cause changes in the brain's chemistry, leading to cravings for the drug and a strong desire to use it again and again. Over time, repeated use of crack cocaine can cause a person to develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring more of it to achieve the same effects and increasing the risk of overdose.
How dangerous is taking crack? In addition to its addictiveness, it can cause paranoia, aggression, and harm to the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. It can also lead to tooth decay and destroy personal relationships.
Clues to find out if someone you know is on crack. Signs of use include small pipes, bicarbonate or baking soda (which may for legitimate purposes). Empty plastic bottles with a makeshift hole, blackened spoons or metallic objects used to cook the drug, and white powdery lumps (which could be crack or cocaine) in discarded roll-up butts.
Interesting crack facts. Unfortunately, there are very few positive aspects of crack use. It is often referred to as the "best high ever," but its dangers and effects on users and their loved ones far outweigh any perceived benefits. The only ones who benefit from crack are the dealers who profit from its sale.
“The long-term side effect and dangers from consuming any drug will vary from person to person depending on the characteristics of each user".
Solvents, Glues, Gases and Aerosols
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Solvents - Glues, Gases and Aerosols
Introduction. Solvents and inhalants come in various forms, including paint strippers, glues, marker pens, and anything else with a toxic odour can be used to get high.
How do use solvents? People inhale or sniff glues or other solvents by putting them in plastic bags or applying them to their sleeve, a cloth or rag and sniffing it.
Solvent slang names. Huffing. Bagging.
Solvent paraphernalia items to look out for. Glues, paint stripper, amyl nitrate (poppers), marker pens, butane cans, cleaning fluids, hair sprays, nail polish remover, plastic bags for inhaling substances. Their breath smelling of glue. Or dried glue around their mouth.
The effects and highs of solvents. Behaviour to observe: Depression, cold chills, headaches, difficulty focusing, and reduced concentration. Users may experience fantasy and delusions, mood swings, head rushes, hallucinations, and blackouts.
How long does the effect of solvents last for? For about 5 to 15 minutes.
The comedown of solvents. Withdrawal symptoms. Depression, cold chills and headaches. Hard to focus and concentrate.
How addictive are solvents? Sniffing solvents is psychologically addictive, and the longer one uses them, the harder it is to quit
How dangerous is sniffing solvents? Solvent abuse can lead to long-term damage to the central nervous system, kidneys, heart, and liver and cause brain damage and even death from "sudden sniffing death syndrome." Even first-time users are at risk of dying from sniffing solvents.
Clues to find out if someone you know is sniffing solvents. Look for unused marker pens, an excessive amount of butane cans, a strong odour on their breath or clothing, plastic bags with dried glue, small brown bottles that may contain amyl nitrate, and a butane lighter refill up their sleeve.
Interesting solvent fact. It is claimed that glue-sniffing was adopted by punks in the late 70s. + 20% of school children have experimented with some form of solvents.
“Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and energy drinks can be just as addictive and dangerous as illegal drugs”
Heroin
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How to Tell if Someone Is on Heroin
Introduction. Heroin is an opioid made from the resin (seed pods) of the opium poppy. Pure heroin is white but can be grey, brown or black (black tar), depending on how it's 'cut' (mixed with low-quality substances).
How do you use heroin? It can be snorted, smoked in a roll-up, injected or placed on aluminium foil and smoked (chasing the dragon). Pure heroin is white. The more it's mixed (tarnished with other cutting agents to increase the volume, thus increase in earnings), the darker it becomes.
Heroin slang/street names. H. Smack. Brown. Skag.
Heroin paraphernalia. Hypodermic needles. Spoons (to cook and prepare it). Aluminium foil to smoke (chase the dragon) with.
The effects and highs of heroin. Things to observe: Heroin can give users an immense high, as it takes away all the misery and pain they have. * Users will look like they are unconscious (gouching/nodding off) and look like they're falling asleep, even while standing. * It causes users to itch, so they are constantly scratching themselves.
How long does the effect of Heroin last for? Heroin euphoria lasts less for around ten minutes. Over time, the intensity and duration of this euphoria are reduced significantly. The initial effect may last a few seconds to a few minutes. After, they will slip in and out of consciousness or nod off.
The comedown of heroin. Withdrawal symptoms: Depression. Loss of appetite. Inability to sleep. Stomach and muscle pain. High cravings for more. Cold turkey is not an option for heroin addicts. The need for their next hit to take away the horrors of withdrawal is vital and what makes heroin so addictive.
How addictive is heroin? Highly addictive, regardless of how one chooses to take it. Although snorting and smoking in rolling papers with tobacco are not as addictive as injecting, it is still addictive. Heroin can cause physical and psychological dependence.
How dangerous is heroin? Taking heroin can lead to physical and mental problems. It will make users' appearance and skin and cause weight loss. The abuse and misuse of heroin will destroy relationships. Injecting it can cause damage to vein and arteries and cause serious infections, including death.
Clues to find out if someone you know is on heroin. Search for needles. Look for fresh needle (track) marks on the arms, legs or other parts of the body. Look in their eyes. Heroin users will have pin-pricked pupils. Heroin users who don't inject will use aluminium foil to inhale (chase the dragon), so check the rubbish bins for aluminium foil with black thin streak marks running down it. * Check inside books or magazines or elsewhere for this foil. * Search for the 'blackened' underside of spoons or metallic objects used to cook it. Addicts may be covered in sores, rashes and scabs from constantly scratching itches. Search the rubbish bins for any of the above. If they are shaking or shivering, they could be suffering from heroin withdrawal symptoms. Methadone is used to help addicts stop taking heroin.
Interesting heroin facts. The English vocalist Sid Vicious from the punk band The Sex Pistols died of an overdose after being released from prison. + Musicians Yoko Ono and John Lennon were addicted to heroin.
A 100% way to identify any drug or drug user
People have been and will continue to take drugs regardless of race, age, or background. To assist them in avoiding medical problems that may result from consuming drugs, such as the presence of harmful additives like rat poison, you can offer them a means to check the purity of what they consume.
It's worth noting that some individuals who use drugs may deny their usage or lie about the type of drugs they're taking. To monitor a loved one or friend who may be struggling with drug addiction, one can purchase a urine or hair test kit cheaply from Amazon.
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