Other Substances

Although most youth are in good health, some youth are at an increased risk for behaviors that can lead to poor health outcomes, such as high-risk substance use. The majority of adults who meet the criteria for having a substance use disorder started using substances during their teen and young adult years. Youth with substance use disorders also experience higher rates of physical and mental illnesses, diminished overall health and well-being, and potential progression to addiction. High-risk substance use is any use by adolescents of substances with a high risk of adverse outcomes (i.e., injury, criminal justice involvement, school dropout, loss of life). This includes misuse of prescription drugs, use of illicit drugs (i.e., cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, inhalants, hallucinogens, or ecstasy), and use of injection drugs which have a high risk of infection of blood-borne diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. Below are resources and information regarding substances.

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs

Find more information and resources on Alcohol, Tobacco, Opioids, Marijuana, Methamphetamine, Cocaine & Kratom

CDC

High-Risk Substance Use Among Youth

Cocaine

Cocaine | NIDA for TeensCocaine is an addictive stimulant drug made from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America. Cocaine comes in two forms: powder cocaine and crack.

Tips for Teens: The Truth About Cocaine

This brochure for teens provides facts about cocaine. It describes short- and long-term effects and lists signs of cocaine use. The brochure helps to dispel common myths about cocaine. Access sources cited in this factsheet.

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine (Meth) | NIDA for TeensAlso known as: Chalk, Meth, Speed, and Tina; or, for crystal meth, Crank, Fire, Glass, Go fast, and Ice

Tips for Teens: The Truth About Methamphetamine

This factsheet for teens provides facts about methamphetamine. It describes short- and long-term effects and lists signs of methamphetamine use. The factsheet helps to dispel common myths about methamphetamine. Access sources cited in this factsheet .

Heroin

Heroin | NIDA for TeensImage Photo by DEA

Tips for Teens: The Truth About Heroin

This factsheet for teens provides facts about heroin. It describes short- and long-term effects and lists signs of heroin use. The factsheet helps to dispel common myths about heroin. Access sources cited in this factsheet.

Inhalants

Inhalants | NIDA for TeensImage ©iStock.com/dimbar76

Tips for Teens: The Truth About Inhalants

This factsheet for teens provides facts about inhalants. It describes the long- and short-term effects and lists the signs of inhalant use. The factsheet helps to dispel common myths about inhalants. Access sources cited in this factsheet.

Steriods, Anabolic

Steroids, Anabolic | NIDA for TeensAnabolic steroids are medications related to testosterone (male sex hormone) that are made in labs. Doctors use anabolic steroids to treat hormone problems in men, delayed puberty, and muscle loss from some diseases.

Tips for Teens: The Truth About Steroids

This fact sheet for teens provides facts about steroids. It describes short- and long-term effects and lists signs of steroids. The fact sheet helps to dispel common myths about steroids. Access sources and references cited in this fact sheet.

Prescription Drugs

Prescription Drugs | NIDA for TeensPrescription drugs are often strong medications, which is why they require a prescription from a doctor or dentist. There are three kinds of prescription drugs that are commonly misused: opioids; depressants; and stimulants.

MDMA (Ecstasy or Molly)

MDMA (Ecstasy or Molly) | NIDA for TeensMDMA, short for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is most commonly known as Ecstasy or Molly. It is a laboratory-made drug that produces a “high” similar to the stimulants called amphetamines. It also produces psychedelic effects, similar to the hallucinogens mescaline and LSD. MDMA first became popular in the nightclub scene, at “raves” (all-night dance parties), and music festivals or concerts. It is now used by a broader range of people. The drug’s effects generally last from 3 to 6 hours.

Click here for Counseling Resources & Hotlines

***Disclaimer: If you or if someone you know is considering Suicide please dial 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room. The links on our website are purely for educational purposes and are not intended as psychological interventions or as a substitute for psychological treatment. If you are in need of psychological help you should seek the consultation of a licensed mental health professional. We have provided links to resources throughout the website.***