Recreational drugs change how the body works. Some are legal and some are not, but all of them affect behaviour and health.
A drug is a substance that changes the way the body works. Recreational drugs are taken for their effects rather than as medicine.
Alcohol is a depressant: it slows reactions, affects judgement and coordination, and in the long term damages the liver and the brain. Nicotine in tobacco is highly addictive. Tar contains carcinogens and damages the lungs, and carbon monoxide reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Smoking greatly increases the risk of lung disease, cardiovascular disease and several cancers. Caffeine is a mild stimulant that raises heart rate and can disturb sleep.
Illegal drugs vary widely: some are stimulants, some depressants, some hallucinogens. Many are addictive, so stopping causes withdrawal symptoms, and misuse can cause lasting damage to the heart, liver, lungs and brain, as well as affecting a person’s relationships, education and work.
Solvent misuse, meaning the inhaling of glue or aerosols, can cause immediate loss of consciousness and lasting damage to the brain, liver and kidneys.
