Drugs come in various forms and can be taken in numerous ways. Some are legal, and others are not. Drug abuse and misuse can cause numerous health problems, and in serious cases, death can occur. Treatment for drug abuse is often sought to aid in recovery.

Drug categories are determined by the physiological responses of the drugs within the human body. Drug recognition specialists classify substances into distinct categories based on the physiological effects they induce in the body following administration. Certain substances have the potential to impede physiological processes, while others can enhance them. The categories of drugs are:

The categories of drugs are:

  • Stimulants
  • Inhalants
  • Cannabinoids
  • Depressants
  • Opioids
  • Steroids
  • Hallucinogens
  • Prescription drugs