In this section, you will research common gateway drugs, including marijuana, tobacco, inhalants, alcohol, and prescription drug abuse. You will learn what these substances are, how they affect the body and brain, and why they can increase the risk of future substance use.

Essential Question

What are the gateway drugs, and why are they especially risky for adolescents?

Student Questions for This Section: Graphic Organizer

• What should students know about marijuana, tobacco, inhalants, alcohol, and prescription drug abuse?

Student-Friendly Research Tip

• When researching the gateway drugs, look for explanations about how drugs affect the brain, decision-making, and judgment—not just facts about the drug itself.

Your teacher will give you specific instructions for completing this section.  

Marijuana | Tobacco | Inhalants | Alcohol | Prescription Drug Abuse