Here is a summary of the characteristics and effects of the best-known drugs.

Heroin

Heroin is a highly addictive opiate. Heroin alters the perception of the environment. The brain cells can become so dependent on heroin that the drug user needs the drug to be able to function in everyday life. Heroin use begins with an excessive rush of happiness, but the user remains in a dazed state for several hours afterwards. The drug user often finds that their only purpose in life is to obtain the drug on which their body has become dependent.

 

Marijuana

Marijuana affects the part of the brain that controls emotions, memory and judgement. Marijuana has an extremely relaxing effect and intensifies the current state of mind. Smoking marijuana can weaken short-term memory and the ability to solve problems.

 

Alcohol

Alcohol is no less dangerous than other drugs. Alcohol impairs judgement and leads to memory lapses. Alcohol can even lead to loss of consciousness. Alcohol distorts perception (tunnel vision), impairs motor skills and damages not only brain cells but also internal organs.

 

Cocaine

Cocaine is an extremely addictive stimulant, both in powder form and as crack cocaine. A cocaine addict loses interest in areas of their life such as school, family and friends. The use of cocaine can lead to paranoia and anxiety. Although cocaine is often used to enhance sex life, it inhibits the brain's ability to feel pleasure.

 

Ecstasy

Ecstasy is an amphetamine, commonly referred to as a party drug. Long-term use can lead to a loss of reality and difficulty concentrating. Studies show that ecstasy destroys certain brain cells. After stopping the drug, the brain cells can regenerate, but will never be identical again. Like most drugs, ecstasy impairs memory and can cause anxiety and confusion.

 

LSD

LSD is taken because of the altered sensory perception of the environment. LSD users are often unable to distinguish between reality and fantasy and lose their sense of space and time. They can suffer from paranoia, confusion and panic attacks.

 

Speed

Speed, also known as pep, is also a popular party drug as it has an extremely stimulating effect. Speed is a methamphetamine and activates certain brain cells, which can lead to addiction.

 

Tobacco

Tobacco contains nicotine and is therefore extremely hazardous to health. Nicotine goes straight to the brain like other inhalants, produces feelings of happiness similar to cocaine and is just as addictive as heroin.

 

Steroids

Anabolic steroids are taken to improve physical performance and build muscle. Steroids can lead to increased aggression, mood swings and memory disorders.

 

Inhalants

Inhalants include, for example, petrol, glue, hairspray and paint thinner. These strong-smelling toxins are inhaled or "sniffed". The effect on the brain is immediate. The toxins can remain in the body for a relatively long time and destroy the protective fatty layer around the nerve cells in the brain. This slows down or even inhibits synaptic transmission. The usual side effects are reduced learning and problem-solving ability and memory lapses.