View source for Recreational drug use

{{Short description|Use of drugs with the primary intention to alter the state of consciousness}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2020}}
[[File:Adriaen Brower - The Smokers.jpg|thumb|''[[The Smokers (painting)|The{{nbsp}}Smokers]]'', a 1636 portrait by [[Adriaen Brouwer]] ]]
[[File:Drinking Man and an Old Smoking Man - MNK XII-A-309 (342453).jpg|thumb|''Drinking Man and an Old Smoking Man'', an 18th-century portrait by anonymous author]]
[[File:Edgar Degas - In a Café - Google Art Project 2.jpg|thumb|''[[L'Absinthe]]'', an 1876 portrait by [[Edgar Degas]] ]]

'''Recreational drug use''' is the use of one or more [[psychoactive drug]]s to induce an [[altered state of consciousness]], either for pleasure or for some other casual purpose or pastime.<ref name="Crocq 2007">{{cite journal |author-last=Crocq |author-first=Marc-Antoine |date=December 2007 |title=Historical and cultural aspects of man's relationship with addictive drugs |editor-last=Thibaut |editor-first=Florence |journal=[[Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience]] |publisher=[[Laboratoires Servier]] |volume=9 |issue=4 |pages=355–361 |doi=10.31887/DCNS.2007.9.4/macrocq |doi-access=free |issn=1958-5969 |oclc=62869913 |pmc=3202501 |pmid=18286796 |s2cid=12682928}}</ref> When a psychoactive drug enters the user's body, it induces an [[Substance intoxication|intoxicating effect]].<ref name="Crocq 2007"/> Recreational drugs are commonly divided into three categories: [[depressant]]s (drugs that induce a feeling of relaxation and calmness), [[stimulant]]s (drugs that induce a sense of energy and alertness), and [[hallucinogen]]s (drugs that induce perceptual distortions such as [[hallucination]]).<ref name="PLOS 2006">{{cite journal |author1-last=Lüscher |author1-first=C |author2-last=Ungless |author2-first=MA |date=November 2006 |title=The Mechanistic Classification of Addictive Drugs |editor-last=Bosurgi |editor-first=R |editor-link=Raffaella Bosurgi |journal=[[PLOS Medicine]] |publisher=[[Public Library of Science]] |volume=3 |issue=11 |pages=e437 |doi=10.1371/journal.pmed.0030437 |doi-access=free |issn=1549-1676 |lccn=2004212194 |pmc=1635740 |pmid=17105338 |s2cid=12300815}}</ref>

In popular practice, recreational drug use is generally tolerated as a social behaviour,<ref name="Crocq 2007"/> rather than perceived as the medical condition of [[self-medication]].<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Williams S |date= 24 October 2015 |title=Specialty Drug Classes That Are Costing Consumers an Arm and a Leg|url=http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2015/10/24/specialty-drug-classes-that-are-costing-consumers.aspx|journal=The Motley Fool}}</ref> However, drug use and [[drug addiction]] are [[Social stigma|severely stigmatized]] everywhere in the world.<ref name="Earnshaw 2020">{{cite journal |author-last=Earnshaw |author-first=VA |date=December 2020 |title=Stigma and substance use disorders: A clinical, research, and advocacy agenda |journal=[[American Psychologist]] |publisher=[[American Psychological Association]] |volume=75 |issue=9 |pages=1300–1311 |doi=10.1037/amp0000744 |doi-access=free |issn=1935-990X |pmc=8168446 |pmid=33382299 |s2cid=229930928}}</ref><ref name="Wang-Maher 2019">{{cite journal |last1=Wang |first1=S.-C. |last2=Maher |first2=B. |date=December 2019 |title=Substance Use Disorder, Intravenous Injection, and HIV Infection: A Review |journal=Cell Transplantation |publisher=[[SAGE Journals]] |volume=28 |issue=12 |pages=1465–1471 |doi=10.1177/0963689719878380 |doi-access=free |issn=1555-3892 |pmc=6923556 |pmid=31547679 |s2cid=202746148}}</ref><ref name="Pickard 2017">{{cite journal |author-last=Pickard |author-first=H |date=January 2017 |title=Responsibility without Blame for Addiction |journal=[[Neuroethics (journal)|Neuroethics]] |publisher=[[Springer Verlag]] |volume=10 |issue=1 |pages=169–180 |doi=10.1007/s12152-016-9295-2 |doi-access=free |issn=1874-5504 |pmc=5486507 |pmid=28725286 |s2cid=13875812}}</ref> Many people also use prescribed and controlled depressants such as [[opioids]], [[opiates]], and [[benzodiazepines]].<ref name="PLOS 2006" /> What controlled substances are considered generally unlawful to possess varies by country, but usually includes [[Cannabis (drug)|cannabis]], [[cocaine]], [[opioid]]s, [[MDMA]], [[amphetamine]], [[methamphetamine]], [[psychedelic]]s, [[benzodiazepine]]s, and [[barbiturate]]s. {{As of|2015|post=,}} it is estimated that about 5% of people worldwide aged 15 to 65 (158 million to 351 million) had used [[controlled drugs]] at least once.<ref name=UNODOC2017>{{cite book | year = 2017 | title = Global Overview of Drug Demand and Supply | series = World Drug Report 2017 | url = https://www.unodc.org/wdr2017/field/Booklet_2_HEALTH.pdf | publisher = United Nations | isbn = 978-92-1-148291-1 | page = 13 | access-date = 9 June 2018 }}</ref>

Common recreational drugs include [[caffeine]], commonly found in [[coffee]], [[tea]], [[soft drink]]s, and [[chocolate]]; [[Alcohol (drug)|alcohol]], commonly found in [[beer]], [[wine]], [[cocktail]]s, and [[distilled spirits]]; [[nicotine]], commonly found in [[tobacco]], [[List of tobacco products|tobacco-based products]], and [[electronic cigarette]]s; [[Cannabis (drug)|cannabis]] and [[hashish]] (with legality of possession varying inter/intra-nationally); and the [[controlled substance]]s listed as controlled drugs in the [[Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs]] (1961) and the [[Convention on Psychotropic Substances]] (1971) of the [[United Nations]] (UN).<ref name="Friedrichs 2009">{{cite book |author-last=Friedrichs |author-first=Jörg |year=2009 |chapter=Part II: The International Fight Against Drugs |title=Fighting Terrorism and Drugs: Europe and International Police Cooperation |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Fb99AgAAQBAJ&pg=PA111 |location=[[London]] and [[New York City]] |publisher=[[Routledge]] |edition=1st |pages=111–158 |series=Routledge Advances in International Relations and Global Politics |doi=10.4324/9780203934562 |isbn=9780415543514}}</ref> Since the early 2000s, the [[European Union]] (EU) has developed several comprehensive and multidisciplinary strategies as part of its [[drug policy]] in order to prevent the diffusion of recreational drug use and [[Substance abuse|abuse]] among the European population and raise public awareness on the adverse effects of drugs among all [[Member state of the European Union|member states of the European Union]], as well as conjoined efforts with European law enforcement agencies, such as [[Europol]] and [[European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction|EMCDDA]], in order to counter [[organized crime]] and [[illegal drug trade]] in Europe.<ref name="Friedrichs 2009"/><ref>{{cite web |author=Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs |year=2023 |title=Organised crime and human trafficking – Drug policy |url=https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/internal-security/organised-crime-and-human-trafficking/drug-policy_en |url-status=live |website=home-affairs.ec.europa.eu |location=[[City of Brussels]] |publisher=[[European Commission]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230101025750/https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/internal-security/organised-crime-and-human-trafficking/drug-policy_en |archive-date=1 January 2023 |access-date=20 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=2023 |title=Crime Areas – Drug Trafficking |url=https://www.europol.europa.eu/crime-areas-and-statistics/crime-areas/drug-trafficking |url-status=live |website=europol.europa.eu |location=[[The Hague]] |publisher=[[Europol]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230509101152/https://www.europol.europa.eu/crime-areas-and-statistics/crime-areas/drug-trafficking |archive-date=9 May 2023 |access-date=12 May 2023}}</ref>

{{TOC limit|3}}

==Reasons for use==
{{Main|Entheogenic use of cannabis|Epigenetics of cocaine addiction|Molecular and epigenetic mechanisms of alcoholism}}
{{Further|Alcohol and Native Americans|History of drinking|History of opium in China|History of smoking}}
[[File:Bhang eaters before two huts (6124556163).jpg|thumb|[[Bhang]] eaters from India, c. 1790; Bhang is an [[Cannabis edible|edible preparation]] of [[Cannabis (drug)|cannabis]] native to the [[Indian subcontinent]]. It has been used in food and drink as early as 1000 BCE by [[Hindu]]s in [[ancient India]].<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Staelens |first=Stefanie |date=10 March 2015 |title=The Bhang Lassi Is How Hindus Drink Themselves High for Shiva |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/kbx94a/httpmunchies-vice-comarticlesthe-bhang-lassi-is-how-hindus-drink-themselves-high-for-shiva |url-status=live |magazine=[[Vice (magazine)|Vice]] |publisher=[[Vice Media]] |issn=1077-6788 |oclc=30856250 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240309082416/https://www.vice.com/en/article/kbx94a/httpmunchies-vice-comarticlesthe-bhang-lassi-is-how-hindus-drink-themselves-high-for-shiva |archive-date=9 March 2024 |access-date=25 March 2024}}</ref>]]
[[File:Ganja Smoking - Gangasagar Fair Transit Camp - Kolkata 2013-01-12 2646.JPG|thumb|250px|A man smoking cannabis through a [[Pipe smoking|pipe]] in [[Kolkata]], [[India]]]]

Many researchers have explored the [[etiology]] of recreational drug use.<ref name="Crocq 2007"/> Some of the most common theories are: [[Genetics of addiction|genetics]],<ref name="Nature 2022">{{cite journal |last1=Saunders |first1=G. R. B. |last2=Wang |first2=X. |last3=Chen |first3=F. |last4=Jang |first4=S. K. |last5=Liu |first5=M. |last6=Wang |first6=C. |last7=Gao |first7=S. |last8=Jiang |first8=Y. |last9=Otto |first9=J. M. |last10=Khunsriraksakul |first10=C. |last11=Akiyama |first11=M. |date=7 December 2022 |title=Genetic diversity fuels gene discovery for tobacco and alcohol use |journal=[[Nature (journal)|Nature]] |publisher=[[Nature Research]] |volume=612 |issue=7941 |pages=720–724 |doi=10.1038/s41586-022-05477-4 |doi-access=free |issn=1476-4687 |pmc=9771818 |pmid=36477530 |bibcode=2022Natur.612..720S |s2cid=254434507}}</ref> personality type, psychological problems, self-medication, sex, age, depression, curiosity, boredom, rebelliousness, a sense of belonging to a group, family and attachment issues, history of trauma, failure at school or work, socioeconomic stressors, peer pressure, juvenile delinquency, availability, historical factors, or socio-cultural influences.<ref name="NIDA 2020">{{cite web |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=13 July 2020 |title=Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction – Drug Misuse and Addiction |url=https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drug-misuse-addiction |website=www.drugabuse.gov |location=[[North Bethesda, Maryland]] |publisher=[[National Institute on Drug Abuse]] |access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref><ref name=plant1980>{{cite journal |author-last=Plant |author-first=MA |title=Drugtaking and prevention: the implications of research for social policy |editor-last=Marsden |editor-first=J |journal=[[Addiction (journal)|Addiction]] |publisher=[[Wiley-Blackwell]] on behalf of the [[Society for the Study of Addiction]] |volume=75 |issue=3 |pages= 245–54 |date=September 1980 |doi=10.1111/j.1360-0443.1980.tb01378.x |issn=1360-0443 |lccn=93645978 |oclc=27367194 |pmid=6938224 |s2cid=32438214}}</ref> There has been no consensus on a single cause.<ref name="NIDA 2020"/> Instead, experts tend to apply the [[biopsychosocial model]].<ref name="NIDA 2020"/> Any number of factors may influence an individual's drug use, as they are not [[mutually exclusive]].<ref name="NIDA 2020"/><ref name=plant1980/><ref name=white2012>{{cite book | vauthors = White T |title=Working with Drug and Alcohol Users|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=clQST0yOQOwC&pg=PA77| location = London | publisher = Jessica Kingsley Publishers|year=2012|page=77|isbn=9780857006189}}</ref> Regardless of genetics, mental health, or traumatic experiences, social factors play a large role in the exposure to and availability of certain types of drugs and patterns of use.<ref name="NIDA 2020"/><ref name=plant1980/><ref>{{Cite web | work = Australian Department of Health | title = 3.1 Reasons why people use drugs | url = https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/publications/publishing.nsf/Content/drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-toc~drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-secb~drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-secb-3~drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-secb-3-1 | access-date = 2020-05-30 | archive-date = 6 November 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211106223638/https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/publications/publishing.nsf/Content/drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-toc~drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-secb~drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-secb-3~drugtreat-pubs-front5-wk-secb-3-1 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

According to addiction researcher Martin A. Plant, some people go through a period of self-redefinition before initiating recreational drug use.<ref name=plant1980/> They tend to view using drugs as part of a general lifestyle that involves belonging to a subculture that they associate with heightened status and the challenging of social norms.<ref name=plant1980/> Plant states: "From the user's point of view there are many positive reasons to become part of the milieu of drug taking. The reasons for drug use appear to have as much to do with needs for friendship, pleasure and status as they do with unhappiness or poverty. Becoming a drug taker, to many people, is a positive affirmation rather than a negative experience".<ref name=plant1980/>

===Evolution===
{{Main|Evolutionary models of human drug use}}
{{Further|Effect of psychoactive drugs on animals|Recreational drug use in animals}}

[[Anthropology|Anthropological research]] has suggested that humans "may have evolved to counter-exploit plant [[neurotoxin]]s". The ability to use botanical chemicals to serve the function of [[endogenous]] [[neurotransmitter]]s may have improved survival rates, conferring an evolutionary advantage. A typically restrictive prehistoric diet may have emphasized the apparent benefit of consuming [[psychoactive drug]]s, which had themselves evolved to imitate neurotransmitters.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Sullivan RJ, Hagen EH, Hammerstein P |date=June 2008 |title=Revealing the paradox of drug reward in human evolution |url=https://anthro.vancouver.wsu.edu/documents/293/Sullivan_et_al_2008_Revealing_the_paradox_of_drug_reward_in_human_evolution_yZX1BuS.pdf |url-status=live |editor-last=Barrett |editor-first=S |editor-link=Spencer Barrett (evolutionary biologist) |journal=[[Proceedings. Biological Sciences]] |publisher=[[Royal Society]] |volume=275 |issue=1640 |pages=1231–41 |doi=10.1098/rspb.2007.1673 |issn=1471-2954 |lccn=92656221 |oclc=1764614 |pmc=2367444 |pmid=18353749 |s2cid=1102991 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211228123846/https://anthro.vancouver.wsu.edu/documents/293/Sullivan_et_al_2008_Revealing_the_paradox_of_drug_reward_in_human_evolution_yZX1BuS.pdf |archive-date=28 December 2021 |access-date=28 December 2021}}</ref> Chemical–ecological adaptations and the genetics of [[hepatic]] [[enzymes]], particularly [[cytochrome P450]], have led researchers to propose that "humans have shared a co-evolutionary relationship with [[psychotropic]] plant substances that is millions of years old."<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Sullivan RJ, Hagen EH, Hammerstein P |date=April 2002 |title=Psychotropic substance-seeking: evolutionary pathology or adaptation? |editor-last=Marsden |editor-first=J |journal=Addiction |volume=97 |issue=4 |pages=389–400 |doi=10.1046/j.1360-0443.2002.00024.x |issn=1360-0443 |lccn=93645978 |oclc=27367194 |pmid=11964056 |s2cid=16713730|doi-access=free }}</ref>

==Health risks==
{{Main|Addiction|Substance abuse|Substance use disorder}}
[[File:Вытрезвитель при Московской части Петербурга.jpg|thumb|right|A 1914 photo of intoxicated men in a sobering-up room]]
{{Further|Addiction vulnerability|Alcohol intoxication|Drug overdose}}
[[File:Rational harm assessment of drugs radar plot.svg|thumb|right|Radar plot of 20 widely used recreational drugs by dependence likelihood and physical and social harms<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Nutt D, King LA, Saulsbury W, Blakemore C |date=March 2007 |title=Development of a rational scale to assess the harm of drugs of potential misuse |editor-last=Horton |editor-first=R |editor-link=Richard Horton (editor) |journal=[[The Lancet]] |publisher=[[Elsevier]] |volume=369 |issue=9566 |pages=1047–53 |doi=10.1016/s0140-6736(07)60464-4 |issn=1474-547X |lccn=sf82002015 |oclc=01755507 |pmid=17382831 |s2cid=5903121}}</ref>]]

The severity of impact and type of risks that come with recreational drug use vary widely with the drug in question and the amount being used. There are many factors in the environment and within the user that interact with each drug differently. [[Alcohol and health|Alcohol is sometimes considered one of the most dangerous]] recreational drugs. [[Alcoholic drink]]s, [[tobacco products]] and other [[nicotine]]-based products (e.g., [[electronic cigarettes]]), and [[Cannabis (drug)|cannabis]] are regarded by various [[medical professionals]] as the most common and widespread [[Gateway drug effect|gateway drugs]].<ref>{{cite journal |last=Williams |first=AR |date=June 2020 |title=Cannabis as a Gateway Drug for Opioid Use Disorder |journal=[[Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics]] |publisher=[[Cambridge University Press]] on behalf of the [[American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics]] |volume=48 |issue=2: ''Opioid Controversies: The Crisis – Causes and Solutions'' |pages=268–274 |doi=10.1177/1073110520935338 |issn=1748-720X |pmc=7359408 |pmid=32631185 |s2cid=220385267}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Ren |first1=M |last2=Lotfipour |first2=S |date=September 2019 |title=Nicotine Gateway Effects on Adolescent Substance Use |journal=[[Western Journal of Emergency Medicine]] |publisher=[[eScholarship]] |volume=20 |issue=5 |pages=696–709 |doi=10.5811/westjem.2019.7.41661 |doi-access=free |issn=1936-9018 |pmc=6754186 |pmid=31539325 |s2cid=201978284}}</ref><ref name="Focus APA">{{cite journal |last=Balon |first=R |date=October 2018 |title=Illegal or Legal, Marijuana Remains a Gateway Drug |journal=Focus: The Journal of Lifelong Learning in Psychiatry |publisher=[[American Psychiatric Association]] |volume=16 |issue=4 |pages=2s–3s |doi=10.1176/appi.focus.164S01 |doi-access=free |issn=1541-4108 |pmc=6493246 |pmid=31975938 |s2cid=169336920}}</ref><ref name="J. Sch. Health">{{cite journal |last1=Barry |first1=AE |last2=King |first2=J |last3=Sears |first3=C |last4=Harville |first4=C |last5=Bondoc |first5=I |last6=Joseph |first6=K |date=January 2016 |title=Prioritizing Alcohol Prevention: Establishing Alcohol as the Gateway Drug and Linking Age of First Drink with Illicit Drug Use |journal=[[Journal of School Health]] |publisher=[[Wiley-Blackwell]] on behalf of the [[American School Health Association]] |volume=86 |issue=1 |pages=31–38 |doi=10.1111/josh.12351 |issn=1746-1561 |pmid=26645418 |s2cid=8906331}}</ref> In the [[United States]], [[Australia]], and [[New Zealand]], the general onset of [[drinking alcohol]], [[tobacco smoking]], [[cannabis smoking]], and [[Poly drug use|consumption of multiple drugs]] most frequently occurs during [[adolescence]] and in [[middle school]] and [[secondary school]] settings.<ref name="Focus APA"/><ref name="J. Sch. Health"/><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Attia |first1=J |last2=Campbell |first2=E |last3=Dray |first3=J |last4=Bowman |first4=J |last5=Freund |first5=M |last6=Hodder |first6=RK |last7=Lecathelinais |first7=C |last8=Oldmeadow |first8=C |last9=Wiggers |first9=J |last10=Wolfenden |first10=L |date=August 2017 |title=Effectiveness of a pragmatic school-based universal resilience intervention in reducing tobacco, alcohol, and illicit substance use in a population of adolescents: Cluster-randomised controlled trial |url=https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/bmjopen/7/8/e016060.full.pdf |url-status=live |journal=[[BMJ Open]] |publisher=[[BMJ (company)|BMJ Group]] |volume=7 |issue=8 |pages=e016060 |doi=10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016060 |doi-access=free |issn=2044-6055 |pmc=5629645 |pmid=28821523 |s2cid=1475517 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190430024943/https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/bmjopen/7/8/e016060.full.pdf |archive-date=30 April 2019 |access-date=1 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Parker |first1=EM |last2=Bradshaw |first2=CP |date=October 2015 |title=Teen Dating Violence Victimization and Patterns of Substance Use Among High School Students |journal=[[Journal of Adolescent Health]] |publisher=[[Elsevier]] on behalf of the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine |volume=57 |issue=4 |pages=441–447 |doi=10.1016/j.jadohealth.2015.06.013 |issn=1054-139X |pmid=26271161 |s2cid=40481423|pmc=10041881 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Chen |first1=CM |last2=Moss |first2=HB |last3=Yi |first3=HY |date=March 2014 |title=Early adolescent patterns of alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana polysubstance use and young adult substance use outcomes in a nationally representative sample |journal=Drug and Alcohol Dependence |publisher=[[Elsevier]] |volume=136 |pages=51–62 |doi=10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2013.12.011 |issn=0376-8716 |pmid=24434016 |s2cid=13003820}}</ref>

Some scientific studies in the early 21st century found that a low to moderate level of alcohol consumption, particularly of [[red wine]],<ref name="Ferrières 2004">{{cite journal |author-last=Ferrières |author-first=J |date=January 2004 |title=The French paradox: lessons for other countries |url=https://heart.bmj.com/content/heartjnl/90/1/107.full.pdf |url-status=live |editor-last=Otto |editor-first=C |editor-link=Catherine Otto |journal=[[Heart (journal)|Heart]] |publisher=[[BMJ Group]] |volume=90 |issue=1 |pages=107–111 |doi=10.1136/heart.90.1.107 |doi-access=free |issn=1468-201X |pmc=1768013 |pmid=14676260 |s2cid=6738125 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210810011209/https://heart.bmj.com/content/heartjnl/90/1/107.full.pdf |archive-date=10 August 2021 |access-date=21 November 2021}}</ref> might have substantial health benefits such as decreased risk of [[cardiovascular diseases]], [[stroke]], and [[cognitive decline]].<ref name="Nutrients 2020">{{cite journal |last1=Chiva-Blanch |first1=G |last2=Badimon |first2=L |date=January 2020 |title=Benefits and Risks of Moderate Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease: Current Findings and Controversies |journal=[[Nutrients (journal)|Nutrients]] |publisher=[[MDPI]] |volume=12 |issue=1: ''Alcoholic Beverages and Human Health'' |pages=108 |doi=10.3390/nu12010108 |doi-access=free |issn=2072-6643 |pmc=7020057 |pmid=31906033 |s2cid=210042186 }}</ref><ref name="hsph.harvard.edu">{{cite web |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=2021 |url=https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks/drinks-to-consume-in-moderation/alcohol-full-story/ |url-status=live |title=The Nutrition Source: "Drinks to Consume in Moderation – Alcohol: Balancing Risks and Benefits" |website=www.hsph.harvard.edu |location=[[Boston]] |publisher=Department of Nutrition at the [[Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011072649/https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks/drinks-to-consume-in-moderation/alcohol-full-story/ |archive-date=11 October 2021 |access-date=11 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Stampfer MJ, Kang JH, Chen J, Cherry R, Grodstein F |date=January 2005 |title=Effects of moderate alcohol consumption on cognitive function in women |journal=[[The New England Journal of Medicine]] |publisher=[[Massachusetts Medical Society]] |volume=352 |issue=3 |pages=245–253 |doi=10.1056/NEJMoa041152 |doi-access=free |issn=1533-4406 |lccn=20020456 |oclc=231027780 |pmid=15659724 |s2cid=42052640}}</ref> This claim has been disputed, specifically by British researcher [[David Nutt]], professor of neuropsychopharmacology at the [[Imperial College London]], who stated that studies showing benefits for "moderate" alcohol consumption in "some middle-aged men" lacked controls for the variable of what the subjects were drinking beforehand.<ref>{{cite news |author-last=Nutt |author-first=David |author-link=David Nutt |date=7 March 2011 |title=There is no such thing as a safe level of alcohol consumption |url=https://www.theguardian.com/science/2011/mar/07/safe-level-alcohol-consumption |url-status=live |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=London |issn=1756-3224 |oclc=60623878 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240428183307/https://www.theguardian.com/science/2011/mar/07/safe-level-alcohol-consumption |archive-date=28 April 2024 |access-date=6 May 2024}}</ref> Experts in the [[United Kingdom]] have suggested that some psychoactive drugs that may be causing less harm to fewer users (although they are also used less frequently in the first place) are cannabis, [[psilocybin mushroom]]s, [[Lysergic acid diethylamide|LSD]], and [[MDMA]]; however, these drugs have risks and side effects of their own.<ref name="pmid21036393">{{cite journal | vauthors = Nutt DJ, King LA, Phillips LD | title = Drug harms in the UK: a multicriteria decision analysis | journal = Lancet | location = London, England | volume = 376 | issue = 9752 | pages = 1558–65 | date = November 2010 | pmid = 21036393 | doi = 10.1016/S0140-6736(10)61462-6 | s2cid = 5667719 }}</ref>

===Drug harmfulness===
[[File:Drug danger and dependence.svg|alt=|thumb|Chart of drug dependence potential and relationship between use and lethal dose<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xpZhjBuDkuwC&pg=PA149 |title=Drugs and Society: U.S. Public Policy |last=Fish |first=Jefferson M |date=2006 |publisher=Rowman & Littlefield |isbn=9780742542457 |language=en}}</ref>]]
[[File:HarmCausedByDrugsTable.svg|thumb|alt=A chart showing relative drug harm of.|Chart of relative harmfulness of some psychoactive substances<ref name="pmid21036393"/>]]
Drug harmfulness is defined as the degree to which a [[psychoactive drug]] has the potential to cause harm to the user and is measured in several ways, such as by [[Substance use disorder|addictiveness]] and the potential for physical harm. More objectively harmful drugs may be colloquially referred to as "hard drugs",<ref name=hardaz>{{cite book |title=The A-Z Encyclopedia of Alcohol and Drug Abuse |url=https://archive.org/details/azencyclopediaal00nord |url-access=limited |author=Thomas Nordegren |year=2002 |isbn=1-58112-404-X |page=[https://archive.org/details/azencyclopediaal00nord/page/n326 327] |publisher=[[Brown Walker Press]] |location=Parkland, Fla.}}</ref> and less harmful drugs as "soft drugs".<ref name=softaz>{{cite book |title=The A-Z Encyclopedia of Alcohol and Drug Abuse |url=https://archive.org/details/azencyclopediaal00nord|url-access=limited |author=Thomas Nordegren |year=2002 |isbn=1-58112-404-X |page=[https://archive.org/details/azencyclopediaal00nord/page/n596 597] |publisher=Brown Walker Press |location=Parkland, Fla.}}</ref> The term "soft drug" is considered controversial by critics as it may imply the false belief that soft drugs cause lesser or insignificant harm.<ref name=softaz/>

===Responsible use===
{{Main|Responsible drug use}}
Responsible drug use advocates that users should not take drugs at the same time as activities such as driving, swimming, operating machinery, or other activities that are unsafe without a sober state. Responsible drug use is emphasized as a primary prevention technique in harm-reduction drug policies. Harm-reduction policies were popularized in the late 1980s, although they began in the 1970s counter-culture, through cartoons explaining responsible drug use and the consequences of irresponsible drug use to users.<ref>{{cite book | vauthors = Faupel CE, Horowitz AM, Weaver GS | title = The Sociology of American Drug Use | date = 2004 | publisher = McGraw-Hill Higher Education | location = Boston | isbn = 978-0-07-240683-2 | pages = 366 }}</ref> Another issue is that the illegality of drugs causes social and economic consequences for users—the drugs may be "cut" with adulterants and the purity varies wildly, making overdoses more likely—and legalization of drug production and distribution could reduce these and other dangers of illegal drug use.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.economist.com/printedition/displayStory.cfm?Story_ID=13237193 |title=Failed states and failed policies, How to stop the drug wars |access-date=10 March 2009 |date=5 March 2009 |newspaper=The Economist}}</ref>

==Prevention==
{{Main|Harm reduction|Preventive healthcare|Smoking ban|Teetotalism}}
{{Further|Drug education|Native American temperance activists|Temperance movement|Tobacco harm reduction}}

In efforts to curtail recreational drug use, governments worldwide [[Prohibition of drugs|introduced several laws prohibiting the possession of almost all varieties of recreational drugs]] during the 20th century. The "[[War on Drugs]]" promoted by the United States, however, is now facing increasing criticism. Evidence is insufficient to tell if behavioral interventions help prevent recreational drug use in children.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Moyer VA | title = Primary care behavioral interventions to reduce illicit drug and nonmedical pharmaceutical use in children and adolescents: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement | journal = Annals of Internal Medicine | volume = 160 | issue = 9 | pages = 634–9 | date = May 2014 | pmid = 24615535 | doi = 10.7326/m14-0334 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

One in four adolescents has used an illegal drug, and one in ten of those adolescents who need addiction treatment get some type of care.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Lord S, Marsch L | title = Emerging trends and innovations in the identification and management of drug use among adolescents and young adults | journal = Adolescent Medicine | volume = 22 | issue = 3 | pages = 649–69, xiv | date = December 2011 | pmid = 22423469 | pmc = 4119795 }}</ref> School-based programs are the most commonly used method for drug use education; however, the success rates of these intervention programs are highly dependent on the commitment of participants and are limited in general.<ref name="pmid16539222">{{cite journal | vauthors = Martens MP, Page JC, Mowry ES, Damann KM, Taylor KK, Cimini MD | title = Differences between actual and perceived student norms: an examination of alcohol use, drug use, and sexual behavior | journal = Journal of American College Health | volume = 54 | issue = 5 | pages = 295–300 | date = 2006 | pmid = 16539222 | doi = 10.3200/JACH.54.5.295-300 | s2cid = 38595391 }}</ref>

==Demographics==
{{Main|Drug education|Drug liberalization|Drug rehabilitation|War on Drugs}}
{{Further|Illegal drug trade|Opioid epidemic|Prohibition of drugs|Temperance movement}}
{{multiple image
| align             = right
| direction         = vertical
| width             = 300
| image1            = Male Smoking by Country.png
| caption1          = [[Prevalence of tobacco use|Smoking any tobacco product]], %, males<ref name=WHOreport>{{cite book |title=WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic 2008: the MPOWER Package. |date=2008 |publisher=World Health Organization |location=Geneva |isbn=9789241596282 | url = https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/43818/9789241596282_eng.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y }}</ref>
| image2            = Female Smoking by Country.png
| caption2          = [[Prevalence of tobacco use|Smoking any tobacco product]], %, females<ref name=WHOreport />
}}
[[File:Alcohol by Country.png|thumb|300px|Total recorded [[countries by alcohol consumption|alcohol per capita consumption]] (15+), in liters of pure alcohol<ref>{{cite book |title=Global status report on alcohol | edition = 2nd |date=2004 |publisher=World Health Organization, Dept. of Mental Health and Substance Abuse |location=Geneva |isbn=9241562722 | url = https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/42971/9241562722_%28425KB%29.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y }}</ref>]]
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:UNOCD Global Map of Cannabis Consumption 2011.gif|thumb|300px|Total annual cannabis consumption prevalence (15+)<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.unodc.org/documents/frontpage/UNODC_Annual_Report_2010_LowRes.pdf | title = UNOCD Annual Report | date = 2010 }}</ref>]] -->

===Australia===
{{Main|Illicit drug use in Australia}}
{{Further|Alcoholism in rural Australia|Illegal drug trade in Australia}}

Alcohol is the most widely used recreational drug in [[Australia]].<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/illicit-use-of-drugs/2016-ndshs-detailed/contents/summary|title=National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2016: detailed findings|date=28 September 2017|website=Australian Institute of Health and Welfare|publisher=The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare}}</ref> 86.2% of Australians aged 12 years and over have consumed alcohol at least once in their lifetime, compared to 34.8% of Australians aged 12 years and over who have used cannabis at least once in their lifetime.<ref name=":0" />

===United States===
{{Main|Federal drug policy of the United States|Illegal drug trade in the United States|Prohibition in the United States}}
{{Further|Cocaine in the United States|Crack epidemic in the United States|Opioid epidemic in the United States|Temperance movement in the United States}}

From the mid-19th century to the 1930s, American physicians prescribed ''[[Cannabis sativa]]'' as a [[prescription drug]] for various medical conditions.<ref name="Mayo Clin. Proc.">{{cite journal | vauthors = Bostwick JM | title = Blurred boundaries: the therapeutics and politics of medical marijuana | journal = Mayo Clinic Proceedings | volume = 87 | issue = 2 | pages = 172–86 | date = February 2012 | pmid = 22305029 | pmc = 3538401 | doi = 10.1016/j.mayocp.2011.10.003 | url = https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(11)00021-8/fulltext | url-status = live | publisher = [[Elsevier]] on behalf of the [[Mayo Clinic]] | access-date = 20 August 2021 | doi-access = free | lccn = sc78001722 | s2cid = 8654553 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201114112321/https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(11)00021-8/fulltext | archive-date = 14 November 2020 }}</ref> In the 1960s, the [[Counterculture of the 1960s|counterculture movement]] introduced the use of psychoactive drugs, including cannabis. Young adults and college students reported the recreational prevalence of cannabis, among other drugs, at 20-25% while the cultural mindset of using was open and curious.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Aikins RD | title = From recreational to functional drug use: the evolution of drugs in American higher education, 1960-2014 | journal = History of Education | volume = 44 | issue = 1 | pages = 25–43 | date = 2015-01-02 | pmid = 27499559 | pmc = 4972325 | doi = 10.1080/0046760X.2014.979251 }}</ref> In 1969, the FBI reported that between the years 1966 and 1968, the number of arrests for marijuana possession, which had been outlawed throughout the United States under [[Marihuana Tax Act of 1937|Marijuana Tax Act of 1937]], had increased by 98%.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Sixties Chronicle| vauthors = Farber D |publisher=Legacy Publishing|page=432|year=2004|isbn=978-1412710091}}</ref> Despite acknowledgement that drug use was greatly growing among America's youth during the late 1960s, surveys have suggested that only as much as 4% of the American population had ever smoked marijuana by 1969. By 1972, however, that number would increase to 12%. That number would then double by 1977.<ref name=ipppabv>{{cite web | url = http://www.gallup.com/poll/6331/decades-drug-use-data-from-60s-70s.aspx | title = Decades of Drug Use: Data From the '60s and '70s | vauthors = Robison J | work = Gallup.com | date = 2 July 2002 | access-date = 13 November 2013 }}</ref>

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 classified marijuana along with [[heroin]] and [[LSD]] as a [[List of Schedule I drugs (US)|Schedule I drug]], i.e., having the relatively highest abuse potential and no accepted medical use.<ref name="Mayo Clin. Proc."/><ref name=ippppavb56>{{cite book | chapter-url = http://www.infoplease.com/encyclopedia/science/marijuana-history-marijuana-use.html | chapter = Marijuana: History of Marijuana Use| via = infoplease.com | title = The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia | edition= 6th | date = 2012 | publisher = Columbia University Press | oclc = 746941797 }}</ref> Most marijuana at that time came from Mexico, but in 1975 the Mexican government agreed to eradicate the crop by spraying it with the herbicide paraquat, raising fears of toxic side effects. Colombia then became the main supplier.<ref name=ippppavb56/> The [[Zero tolerance#Narcotics|"zero tolerance"]] climate of the Reagan and Bush administrations (1981–1993) resulted in passage of strict laws and [[Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984|mandatory sentences for possession of marijuana]].<ref name="Harm Reduct. J.">{{cite journal |last1=King |first1=RS |last2=Mauer |first2=M |date=February 2006 |title=The war on marijuana: The transformation of the war on drugs in the 1990s |journal=[[Harm Reduction Journal]] |publisher=[[BioMed Central]] |volume=3 |issue=6 |page=6 |doi=10.1186/1477-7517-3-6 |doi-access=free |issn=1477-7517 |lccn=2004243422 |pmc=1420279 |pmid=16469094 |s2cid=15088248}}</ref> The "[[War on Drugs]]" thus brought with it a shift from reliance on imported supplies to domestic cultivation, particularly in [[Hawaii]] and [[California]]. Beginning in 1982, the Drug Enforcement Administration turned increased attention to marijuana farms in the United States, and there was a shift to the indoor growing of plants specially developed for small size and high yield. After over a decade of decreasing use, marijuana smoking began an upward trend once more in the early 1990s, especially among teenagers, but by the end of the decade this upswing had leveled off well below former peaks of use.<ref name=ippppavb56/>

==Society and culture==
{{Main|Drug culture|History and culture of substituted amphetamines|History of alcoholic drinks|History of smoking}}
{{Further|Alcohol abuse among college students|Benzodiazepine drug misuse|Binge drinking|Drug-facilitated sexual assault}}[[File:VodkaRedBull.jpg|thumb|right|[[Caffeinated alcoholic beverage]]s, such as [[Vodka Red Bull]], are widespread and legal routes of administration for [[polysubstance use|multiple drugs]].]]
{{essay|section|date=October 2023}}

Many movements and organizations are advocating for or against the [[Drug liberalization|liberalization of the use of recreational drugs]], most notably regarding the [[Cannabis legalization|legalization of marijuana and cannabinoids]] for [[Medical cannabis|medical]] and/or recreational use.<ref name="Mayo Clin. Proc."/><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Di Forti M | title = To legalize or not to legalize cannabis, that is the question! | journal = [[World Psychiatry]] | volume = 19 | issue = 2 | pages = 188–189 | date = June 2020 | pmid = 32394550 | pmc = 7214953 | doi = 10.1002/wps.20737 | s2cid = 218598941 | publisher = [[Wiley-Blackwell]] on behalf of the [[World Psychiatric Association]] | veditors = Maj M | editor-link = Mario Maj | doi-access = free }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Bahji A, Stephenson C | title = International Perspectives on the Implications of Cannabis Legalization: A Systematic Review & Thematic Analysis | journal = International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health | volume = 16 | issue = 17 | page = 3095 | date = August 2019 | pmid = 31454942 | pmc = 6747067 | doi = 10.3390/ijerph16173095 | s2cid = 201658917 | publisher = [[MDPI]] | doi-access = free }}</ref><ref name="Pacula_2017">{{cite journal | vauthors = Pacula RL, Smart R | title = Medical Marijuana and Marijuana Legalization | journal = Annual Review of Clinical Psychology | volume = 13 | issue = | pages = 397–419 | date = May 2017 | pmid = 28482686 | pmc = 6358421 | doi = 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-032816-045128 | veditors = Cannon T, Widiger T | editor1-link = Tyrone Cannon | editor2-link = Thomas Widiger | lccn = 2004212108 | s2cid = 3836912 | publisher = [[Annual Reviews (publisher)|Annual Reviews]] }}</ref> [[Subculture]]s have emerged among users of recreational drugs,<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Hunt |editor1-first=Geoffrey |editor2-last=Milhet |editor2-first=Maitena |editor3-last=Bergeron |editor3-first=Henri |year=2016 |chapter=Part II - Consumption: Cultures of Drug Use |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WfsoDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA113 |title=Drugs and Culture: Knowledge, Consumption, and Policy |location=[[London]] and [[New York City|New York]] |publisher=[[Routledge]] |pages=113–194 |isbn=9781138274426 |lccn=2010048568}}</ref> as well as [[alternative lifestyle]]s and [[social movement]]s among those who abstain from them, such as [[teetotalism]] and "[[straight edge]]".<ref>{{cite book |author-last=Haenfler |author-first=Ross |year=2015 |chapter=Straight Edge |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9gUoDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA137 |editor1-last=Parmar |editor1-first=Priya |editor2-last=Nocella II |editor2-first=Anthony J. |editor3-last=Robertson |editor3-first=Scott |editor4-last=Diaz |editor4-first=Martha |title=Rebel Music: Resistance through Hip Hop and Punk |location=[[Charlotte, North Carolina]] |publisher=[[Information Age Publishing]] |pages=137–138 |isbn=978-1-62396-910-3}}</ref>

Since the early 2000s, [[medical professional]]s have acknowledged and addressed the problem of the increasing consumption of [[alcoholic drinks]] and [[club drugs]] (such as [[MDMA]], [[cocaine]], [[rohypnol]], [[Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid|GHB]], [[ketamine]], [[Phencyclidine|PCP]], [[LSD]], and [[methamphetamine]]) associated with [[rave culture]] among adolescents and young adults in the [[Western world]].<ref name="CMAJ 2000">{{cite journal | vauthors = Weir E | title = Raves: a review of the culture, the drugs and the prevention of harm | journal = CMAJ | volume = 162 | issue = 13 | pages = 1843–8 | date = June 2000 | pmid = 10906922 | pmc = 1231377 | url = https://www.cmaj.ca/content/cmaj/162/13/1843.full.pdf | url-status = live | publisher = [[Canadian Medical Association]] | archive-date = 28 June 2019 | access-date = 17 August 2021 | lccn = 87039047 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190628204824/https://www.cmaj.ca/content/cmaj/162/13/1843.full.pdf | eissn = 1488-2329 | s2cid = 10853457}}</ref><ref name="Am. J. Health-Syst. Pharm">{{cite journal | vauthors = Smith KM, Larive LL, Romanelli F | title = Club drugs: methylenedioxymethamphetamine, flunitrazepam, ketamine hydrochloride, and gamma-hydroxybutyrate | journal = American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy | volume = 59 | issue = 11 | pages = 1067–76 | date = June 2002 | pmid = 12063892 | doi = 10.1093/ajhp/59.11.1067 | publisher = [[American Society of Health-System Pharmacists]] | oclc = 41233599 | eissn = 1535-2900 | s2cid = 44680086| doi-access = free }}</ref><ref name="AANA 2004">{{cite journal | vauthors = Klein M, Kramer F | title = Rave drugs: pharmacological considerations | journal = AANA Journal | volume = 72 | issue = 1 | pages = 61–7 | date = February 2004 | pmid = 15098519 | s2cid = 41926572 | url = https://www.aana.com/docs/default-source/aana-journal-web-documents-1/61-67.pdf | url-status = live | publisher = [[American Association of Nurse Anesthetists]] | access-date = 17 August 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210817012105/https://www.aana.com/docs/default-source/aana-journal-web-documents-1/61-67.pdf | archive-date = 17 August 2021 }}</ref><ref name="Subst. Use Misuse">{{cite journal | vauthors = Degenhardt L, Copeland J, Dillon P | title = Recent trends in the use of "club drugs": an Australian review | journal = Substance Use & Misuse | volume = 40 | issue = 9–10 | pages = 1241–56 | date = 2005 | pmid = 16048815 | doi = 10.1081/JA-200066777 | publisher = [[Taylor & Francis]] | s2cid = 25509945 | lccn = 2006268261 | eissn = 1532-2491}}</ref><ref name="Hum. Exp. Toxicol.">{{cite journal | vauthors = Halpern P, Moskovich J, Avrahami B, Bentur Y, Soffer D, Peleg K | title = Morbidity associated with MDMA (ecstasy) abuse: a survey of emergency department admissions | journal = Human & Experimental Toxicology | volume = 30 | issue = 4 | pages = 259–66 | date = April 2011 | pmid = 20488845 | doi = 10.1177/0960327110370984 | publisher = [[SAGE Publications]] | bibcode = 2011HETox..30..259H | s2cid = 30994214 | lccn = 90031138 | eissn = 1477-0903 }}</ref> Studies have shown that adolescents are more likely than young adults to use [[Polysubstance use|multiple drugs]],<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors= Palamar JJ, Acosta P, Le A, Cleland CM, Nelson LS |date=November 2019 |title=Adverse drug-related effects among electronic dance music party attendees |journal=International Journal of Drug Policy |publisher=[[Elsevier]] |volume=73 |pages=81–87 |doi=10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.07.005 |issn=1873-4758 |pmc=6899195 |pmid=31349134 |s2cid=198932918}}</ref> and the consumption of club drugs is highly associated with the presence of [[criminal behavior]]s and recent [[alcohol abuse]] or [[Alcohol dependence|dependence]].<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Wu LT, Schlenger WE, Galvin DM | title = Concurrent use of methamphetamine, MDMA, LSD, ketamine, GHB, and flunitrazepam among American youths | journal = Drug and Alcohol Dependence | volume = 84 | issue = 1 | pages = 102–13 | date = September 2006 | pmid = 16483730 | pmc = 1609189 | doi = 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2006.01.002 | s2cid = 24699584 | publisher = [[Elsevier]] }}</ref>

The prevalence of recreational drugs in human societies is widely reflected in fiction, entertainment, and the arts, subject to prevailing laws and social conventions. For instance, in the [[music industry]], the musical genres [[Hip hop music|hip hop]], [[Hardcore hip hop|hardcore rap]], and [[Trap music|trap]], alongside their [[List of hip hop genres|derivative subgenres]] and [[subculture]]s, are most notorious for having continuously celebrated and promoted [[Illegal drug trade|drug trafficking]], [[Gangster|gangster lifestyle]], and consumption of alcohol and other drugs since their inception in the United States during the late 1980s–early 1990s.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gonzales |first=Matt |date=2 March 2020 |origyear=27 November 2017 |title=Rap Culture's Evolution from Glorifying to Decrying Drug Use |url=https://www.drugrehab.com/featured/substance-use-and-rap-music/ |url-status=live |location=[[Orlando, Florida]] |publisher=DrugRehab.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210116094555/https://www.drugrehab.com/featured/substance-use-and-rap-music/ |archive-date=16 January 2021 |access-date=10 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=18 December 2019 |title=Can Hip-Hop Separate Itself From The Drug Culture It Helped Build? |url=https://www.cultr.com/news/can-hip-hop-separate-itself-from-the-drug-culture-it-helped-build/ |url-status=live |magazine=CULTR |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205090938/https://www.cultr.com/news/can-hip-hop-separate-itself-from-the-drug-culture-it-helped-build/ |archive-date=5 December 2020 |access-date=10 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |author-last=Granovsky |author-first=Josh |date=23 November 2018 |title=Emo rap needs to end |url=https://www.queensjournal.ca/story/2018-11-23/pop-culture/emo-rap-needs-to-end/ |url-status=live |magazine=[[The Queen's Journal]] |location=[[Kingston, Ontario]] |publisher=[[Alma Mater Society of Queen's University]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724213024/https://www.queensjournal.ca/story/2018-11-23/pop-culture/emo-rap-needs-to-end/ |archive-date=24 July 2021 |access-date=7 August 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |author-last=Smiley |author-first=Calvin J. |year=2017 |title=Addict Rap?: The Shift from Drug Distributor to Drug Consumer in Hip Hop |url=https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1062&context=jhhs |url-status=live |format=PDF |journal=Journal of Hip Hop Studies |location=[[Richmond, Virginia]] |publisher=VCU Scholars Compass ([[Virginia Commonwealth University]]) |volume=4 |issue=1 |pages=1–24 |doi=10.34718/ZBWC-RN03 |doi-access=free |issn=2331-5563 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210706234554/https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1062&context=jhhs |archive-date=6 July 2021 |access-date=10 January 2022}}</ref> In [[video games]], for example, drugs are portrayed in a variety of ways: including power-ups ([[cocaine]] gum replenishes stamina in ''[[Red Dead Redemption 2]]''), obstacles to be avoided (such as the Fuzzies in ''[[Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island]]'' that distort the player's view when accidentally consumed), items to be bought and sold for in-game currency (coke dealing is a big part of ''[[Scarface: The World Is Yours]]''). In the ''[[Fallout (franchise)|Fallout]]'' video game franchise, drugs ("chems" in the game) can fill the role of any above mentioned.<ref name="Levan-Downing">{{cite book |author1-last=Levan |author1-first=Kristine |author2-last=Downing |author2-first=Steven |year=2022 |chapter=Chapter 2: Drugs |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tXufEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA22 |title=Crime, Punishment, and Video Games |location=[[Lanham, Maryland]] |publisher=[[Rowman & Littlefield]] |pages=22–23 |isbn=978-1-7936-1338-7 |lccn=2022037114}}</ref> [[Illegal drug trade|Drug trafficking]], [[Street gang|gang rivalries]], and their related criminal underworld also play a big part in the ''[[Grand Theft Auto]]'' video game franchise.<ref name="Levan-Downing"/>

==Common recreational drugs==
The following substances are commonly used recreationally:<ref>{{cite web|title=Commonly Used Drugs Charts
|date=20 August 2020
|publisher=National Institute on Drug Abuse
|url=https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/commonly-used-drugs-charts|access-date=8 October 2020}}</ref>
* [[Alcohol (drug)|Alcohol]]: Most drinking alcohol is [[ethanol]], {{chem|C|H|3|C|H|2|O|H}}. Drinking alcohol creates [[Alcohol intoxication|intoxication]], relaxation and lowered inhibitions. It is produced by the [[fermentation]] of [[sugar]]s by [[yeast]]s to create [[wine]], [[beer]], and [[distilled liquor]] (e.g., [[vodka]], [[rum]], [[gin]], etc.). In most areas of the world, it is legal for those over a certain age (18 in most countries). It is an [[International Agency for Research on Cancer|IARC]] [[List of IARC Group 1 carcinogens|Group 1 carcinogen]] and a [[teratogen]].<ref>{{cite book | author = The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) | publisher = World Health Organization (WHO) | chapter-url = http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/ClassificationsGroupOrder.pdf | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180328180015/http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/ClassificationsGroupOrder.pdf | archive-date = 28 March 2018 | chapter = Agents Classified by the IARC Monographs | volume = 1–120 | title = IARC Monographs on the Identification of Carcinogenic Hazards to Humans }}</ref> Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening.<ref name="pmid15706735">{{cite journal | vauthors = Trevisan LA, Boutros N, Petrakis IL, Krystal JH | title = Complications of alcohol withdrawal: pathophysiological insights | journal = Alcohol Health and Research World | volume = 22 | issue = 1 | pages = 61–6 | date = 1998 | pmid = 15706735 | pmc = 6761825 | doi =  | url = https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh22-1/61-66.pdf | access-date = 12 January 2019 | archive-date = 23 June 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210623164816/https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh22-1/61-66.pdf | url-status = dead }}</ref>
* [[Amphetamine]]s: Used recreationally to provide alertness and a sense of energy. Prescribed for [[ADHD]], narcolepsy, depression, and weight loss. A potent [[central nervous system]] [[stimulant]], in the 1940s and 50s [[methamphetamine]] was used by Axis and Allied troops in [[World War II]], and, later on, other armies, and by Japanese factory workers. It increases muscle strength and fatigue resistance and improves reaction time.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia| vauthors = Jenkins JP |url= http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/378259/methamphetamine |title= Methamphetamine (drug) | encyclopedia = Britannica Online Encyclopedia |access-date=29 January 2012}}</ref> Methamphetamine use can be [[neurotoxic]], which means it damages [[dopamine]] neurons.<ref name="Cruickshank-2009">{{cite journal | vauthors = Cruickshank CC, Dyer KR | title = A review of the clinical pharmacology of methamphetamine | journal = Addiction | volume = 104 | issue = 7 | pages = 1085–99 | date = July 2009 | pmid = 19426289 | doi = 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2009.02564.x | s2cid = 37079117 | doi-access = free }}</ref> As a result of this brain damage, chronic use can lead to [[post acute withdrawal syndrome]].<ref name = "Malenka">{{cite book |vauthors=Malenka RC, Nestler EJ, Hyman SE |veditors=Sydor A, Brown RY | title = Molecular Neuropharmacology: A Foundation for Clinical Neuroscience | year = 2009 | publisher = McGraw-Hill Medical | location = New York | isbn = 978-0-07-148127-4 | page = 370 | edition = 2nd | chapter = 15 | quote = Unlike cocaine and amphetamine, methamphetamine is directly toxic to midbrain dopamine neurons.}}</ref>
* [[Caffeine]]: Often found in [[coffee]], [[black tea]], [[energy drink]]s, some [[soft drink]]s (e.g., [[Coca-Cola]], [[Pepsi]], and [[Mountain Dew]], among others), and [[chocolate]]. It is the world's most widely consumed psychoactive drug, but has only mild dependence liability for long-term users.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Molecular neuropharmacology : a foundation for clinical neuroscience| vauthors = Nestler EJ |date=2009|publisher=McGraw-Hill Medical|others=Hyman, Steven E., Malenka, Robert C.|isbn=9780071641197|edition= 2nd|location=New York|pages=375|oclc=273018757}}</ref>
* [[Cannabis (drug)|Cannabis]]: Its common forms include [[marijuana]] and [[hashish]], which are smoked, vaporized or eaten. It contains at least 85 [[cannabinoid]]s. The primary [[psychoactive]] component is [[THC]], which mimics the neurotransmitter [[anandamide]], named after the [[Hindu]] ''ananda'', "joy, bliss, delight". When cannabis is eaten, THC metabolized into [[11-OH-THC]], this molecule is the primary psychoactive coumpound of edible forms of cannabis. [[THC]] and [[11-OH-THC]] are [[partial agonist]] at [[Cannabinoid receptor 1|CB1]] and [[Cannabinoid receptor type 2|CB2]] receptors of the [[endocannabinoid system]]. 
* [[Cocaine]]: It is available as a white powder, which is insufflated ("sniffed" into the nostrils) or converted into a solution with water and [[Drug injection|injected]].<ref name="Wang-Maher 2019"/> A popular derivative, [[crack cocaine]] is typically smoked. When transformed into its freebase form, [[crack cocaine|crack]], the cocaine vapour may be inhaled directly. This is thought to increase [[bioavailability]], but has also been found to be toxic, due to the production of [[methylecgonidine]] during [[pyrolysis]].<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Scheidweiler KB, Plessinger MA, Shojaie J, Wood RW, Kwong TC | title = Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of methylecgonidine, a crack cocaine pyrolyzate. | journal = Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics | date = December 2003 | volume = 307 | issue = 3 | pages = 1179–87 | doi = 10.1124/jpet.103.055434 | pmid = 14561847 | s2cid = 15619796 }}</ref><ref name="pmid11159694">{{cite journal | vauthors = Yang Y, Ke Q, Cai J, Xiao YF, Morgan JP | title = Evidence for cocaine and methylecgonidine stimulation of M(2) muscarinic receptors in cultured human embryonic lung cells | journal = British Journal of Pharmacology | volume = 132 | issue = 2 | pages = 451–60 | date = January 2001 | pmid = 11159694 | pmc = 1572570 | doi = 10.1038/sj.bjp.0703819 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Fandiño AS, Toennes SW, Kauert GF | title = Studies on hydrolytic and oxidative metabolic pathways of anhydroecgonine methyl ester (methylecgonidine) using microsomal preparations from rat organs | journal = Chemical Research in Toxicology | volume = 15 | issue = 12 | pages = 1543–8 | date = December 2002 | pmid = 12482236 | doi = 10.1021/tx0255828 }}</ref>
* [[MDMA]]: Commonly known as ecstasy, it is a common [[club drug]] in the [[rave]] scene.
* [[Ketamine]]: An anesthetic used legally by paramedics and doctors in emergency situations for its [[dissociative]] and [[analgesic]] qualities and illegally in the [[club drug]] scene.
* [[Purple drank|Lean]]: A liquid drug mixture made when mixing cough syrup, sweets, [[soft drinks]] and [[codeine]]. It originated in the 1990s in [[Houston]]. Ever since then, this drug usage has grown and is often used at parties and in the trap music scene. Many people would get a drowsy feeling when consuming this drug.
* [[LSD]]: A popular [[ergoline]] derivative, that was first [[Organic synthesis|synthesized]] in 1938 by [[Albert Hofmann]]. However, he failed to notice its psychedelic effects until 1943.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.psychedelic-library.org/child1.htm|vauthors=Hofmann A|title=LSD My Problem Child|access-date=19 April 2010|archive-date=11 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100111071233/http://www.psychedelic-library.org/child1.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> It's a [[Serotonin|serotonergic]] [[psychedelic]] ([[partial agonist]] at [[serotonin]] receptors, particularly the [[5-HT2A]] subtypes) like [[psilocin]], [[mescaline]] and [[DMT]]. But LSD is unique because it is also a partial agonist of [[dopamine]] and [[norepinephrine]] receptors, particularly the [[Dopamine receptor D2|D2R]] subtypes. LSD (d-Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is a molecule of the [[lysergamide]] family, a subclass of the [[tryptamine]] family. In the 1950s, it was used in psychological therapy, and, covertly, by the [[CIA]] in Project [[MKULTRA]], in which the drug was administered to unwitting US and Canadian citizens. It played a central role in 1960s 'counter-culture', and was banned in October 1968 by US President [[Lyndon B Johnson]].<ref>{{cite book | title = The Consumers Union Report on Licit and Illicit Drugs | vauthors = Brecher EM | collaboration = The Editors of Consumer Reports Magazine | date = 1972 | chapter = Chapter 50. How LSD was popularized, 1962-1969 |url = http://www.druglibrary.org/schaffer/Library/studies/cu/CU50.html }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.erowid.org/psychoactives/law/law_fed_staggers-dodd.pdf| author=United States Congress | title=Staggers-Dodd Bill, Public Law 90-639 | date=24 October 1968 | access-date=8 September 2009}}</ref>
* [[Nitrous oxide]]: legally used by dentists as an anxiolytic and anaesthetic, it is also used recreationally by users who obtain it from whipped cream canisters (whippets or whip-its) (see [[inhalant]]), as it causes perceptual effects, a "high" and at higher doses, hallucinations.
* [[Opiates]] and [[opioids]]: Available by prescription for pain relief. Commonly used opioids include [[oxycodone]], [[hydrocodone]], [[codeine]], [[fentanyl]], [[heroin]], [[methadone]], and [[morphine]]. Opioids have a high potential for [[addiction]] and have the ability to induce severe physical [[Drug withdrawal|withdrawal]] symptoms upon cessation of frequent use. Heroin can be smoked, insufflated, or turned into a solution with water and injected.<ref name="Wang-Maher 2019"/> [[Oxycodone/paracetamol|Percocet]] is a prescription opioid containing oxycodone and [[Paracetamol|acetaminophen]]. 
* [[Psilocybin mushroom]]s: This hallucinogenic drug was an important drug in the [[psychedelic drug|psychedelic]] scene. Until 1963, when it was chemically analysed by [[Albert Hofmann]], it was completely unknown to modern science that ''[[Psilocybe semilanceata]]'' ("Liberty Cap", common throughout Europe) contains [[psilocybin]], a hallucinogen previously identified only in species native to Mexico, Asia, and North America.<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Hofmann A, Heim R, Tscherter H  |title="Phytochimie – présence de la psilocybine dans une espèce européenne d'agaric, le Psilocybe semilanceata Fr." | trans-title = Phytochemistry – presence of psilocybin in a European agaric species, Psilocybe semilanceata | language = French | journal = Comptes rendus hebdomadaires des séances de l'Académie des sciences | volume = 257 | issue = 1 |pages=10–12 |year=1963 }}</ref>
* [[Tobacco]]: ''[[Nicotiana tabacum]]''. Nicotine is the key drug contained in tobacco leaves, which are either smoked, chewed or [[snuff (tobacco)|snuff]]ed. It contains nicotine, which crosses the [[blood–brain barrier]] in 10–20 seconds. It mimics the action of the [[neurotransmitter]] [[acetylcholine]] at [[nicotinic acetylcholine receptors]] in the brain and the [[neuromuscular junction]]. The [[neuron]]al forms of the receptor are present both post-[[synapse|synaptically]] (involved in classical [[neurotransmission]]) and pre-synaptically, where they can influence the release of multiple neurotransmitters.<ref name="pmid9023878">{{cite journal | vauthors = Wonnacott S | title = Presynaptic nicotinic ACh receptors | journal = Trends in Neurosciences | volume = 20 | issue = 2 | pages = 92–8 | date = February 1997 | pmid = 9023878 | doi = 10.1016/S0166-2236(96)10073-4 | s2cid = 42215860 }}</ref>
* [[Tranquilizers]]: [[barbiturates]], [[benzodiazepines]] (e.g. alprazolam, diazepam, etc.)(commonly prescribed for [[anxiety disorder]]s; known to cause [[dementia]] and post acute withdrawal syndrome)
* "[[Bath salts (drug)|Bath salts]]": slang term that generally refers to [[substituted cathinone]]s such as [[Mephedrone]] and [[Methylenedioxypyrovalerone]] (MDPV), but not always
* [[N,N-Dimethyltryptamine|DMT]] – primary ingredient in [[ayahuasca]], can also be smoked (inhalation causes a brief effect lasting usually 5 to 15 minutes).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Power|first=Mike|date=2020-06-05|title=I Sell DMT Vape Pens So People Can 'Break Through' at Their Own Speed|url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/akzgbz/i-sell-dmt-vape-pens-so-people-can-break-through-at-their-own-speed|access-date=2022-01-04|website=www.vice.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Erowid DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) Vault|url=https://www.erowid.org/chemicals/dmt/dmt.shtml|access-date=2022-01-04|website=www.erowid.org}}</ref>
* [[Peyote]]: This hallucinogen contains [[mescaline]], native to southwestern [[Texas]] and [[Mexico]]. [[Echinopsis pachanoi]] is a faster growing cactus containing mescaline.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Benjamin Bury |first=Mchem |date=2021-08-02 |title=Could Synthetic Mescaline Protect Declining Peyote Populations? |url=https://chacruna.net/synthetic_mescaline_protect_declining_peyote_populations/ |access-date=2023-02-01 |website=Chacruna |language=en-US}}</ref> It is one of the few narcotics legally available in the United States for religious purposes by the [[Native American Church]].
* [[Salvia divinorum]]: This hallucinogenic [[Yucatán Peninsula|Mexican]] herb in the [[Lamiaceae|mint]] family; not considered recreational, most likely due to the nature of the hallucinations (legal in some jurisdictions)
* [[Synthetic cannabis]]: "Spice", "K2", [[JWH-018]], [[AM-2201]]
* [[Quaaludes]]: A popular club drug in the 1970s. No longer prescribed or manufactured in many countries but remains popular in South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web | vauthors = Smith L |date= 22 May 2018 |title=The drug plague destroying families across South Africa|url=https://zululandobserver.co.za/171501/drug-plague-destroying-families-across-south-africa/ |access-date = 14 July 2020 |website=Zululand Observer}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Quaaludes (methaqualone) Uses, Effects & History of Abuse|url=https://www.drugs.com/illicit/quaaludes.html|access-date=2020-07-14|website=Drugs.com|language=en}}</ref>

==Routes of administration==
[[File:Caffeineinsufflation.JPG|thumb|[[Insufflation (medicine)|Insufflation]] of powdered drug]]
[[File:Injecting Heroin.JPG|thumb|[[Drug injection|Injection]] of heroin]]

Drugs are often associated with a particular [[route of administration]]. Many drugs can be consumed in more than one way. For example, [[marijuana]] can be swallowed like food or smoked, and [[cocaine]] can be "sniffed" in the nostrils, injected, or, with various modifications, smoked.

* [[inhalation]]: all intoxicative inhalants (see below) that are gases or solvent vapours that are inhaled through the trachea, as the name suggests
* [[Insufflation (medicine)|insufflation]]: also known as "snorting", or "sniffing", this method involves the user placing a powder in the nostrils and breathing in through the nose, so that the drug is absorbed by the [[mucous membranes]]. Drugs that are "snorted", or "sniffed", include [[History and culture of substituted amphetamines|powdered amphetamines]], [[cocaine]], [[heroin]], [[ketamine]], [[MDMA]], and [[Snuff (tobacco)|snuff tobacco]].
* [[Subcutaneous injection]] (see also the article [[Skin popping]]): injection of drug into the third lowest layer of skin.
* [[Intramuscular injection]]: injection of drug into a muscle.
* [[intravenous injection]] (see also the article [[Drug injection]]): the user injects a solution of water and the drug into a vein, or less commonly, into the tissue.<ref name="Wang-Maher 2019"/> Drugs that are injected include [[morphine]] and [[heroin]],<ref name="Wang-Maher 2019"/> less commonly other opioids. Stimulants like [[cocaine]] or [[methamphetamine]] may also be injected.<ref name="Wang-Maher 2019"/> In rare cases, users inject other drugs.
* oral intake: caffeine, ethanol, cannabis edibles, psilocybin mushrooms, [[coca tea]], [[poppy tea]], [[laudanum]], [[Gamma-hydroxybutyrate|GHB]], ecstasy pills with [[MDMA]] or various other substances (mainly stimulants and psychedelics), prescription and over-the-counter drugs (ADHD and narcolepsy medications, benzodiazepines, anxiolytics, sedatives, cough suppressants, morphine, codeine, opioids and others)
* [[Sublingual administration|sublingual]]: substances diffuse into the [[blood]] through [[Tissue (biology)|tissues]] under the tongue.  Many psychoactive drugs can be or have been specifically designed for sublingual administration, including [[barbiturate]]s, benzodiazepines,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://home.intekom.com/pharm/akromed/ativansl.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20040204200938/http://home.intekom.com/pharm/akromed/ativansl.html | archive-date = 4 February 2004 |title= Ativan 1 mg Sublingual Tablets | work = Malahyde Information Systems | date = 3 May 1985 | access-date = 8 July 2016 }}</ref> [[opioid]] [[analgesics]] with poor gastrointestinal bioavailability, [[LSD]] blotters, [[Coca plant|coca]] leaves, some hallucinogens. This route of administration is activated when chewing some forms of [[smokeless tobacco]] (e.g. [[dipping tobacco]], [[snus]]).
* [[Rectal (medicine)|intrarectal]]: administering into the rectum, most water-soluble drugs can be used this way.
* [[smoking]] (see also the section below): tobacco, cannabis, [[opium]], [[Methamphetamine|crystal meth]], [[phencyclidine]], [[crack cocaine]], and heroin (diamorphine as freebase) known as [[chasing the dragon]].
* transdermal patches with prescription drugs: e.g. [[methylphenidate]] (''Daytrana'') and [[fentanyl]].<ref>{{Citation |last1=Ruiz |first1=María Esperanza |title=Routes of Drug Administration |date=2018 |url=http://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-319-99593-9_6 |work=ADME Processes in Pharmaceutical Sciences |pages=97–133 |editor-last=Talevi |editor-first=Alan |place=Cham |publisher=Springer International Publishing |language=en |doi=10.1007/978-3-319-99593-9_6 |isbn=978-3-319-99592-2 |access-date=2022-03-27 |last2=Scioli Montoto |first2=Sebastián |editor2-last=Quiroga |editor2-first=Pablo A. M.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Verma |first1=P. |last2=Thakur |first2=A.S. |last3=Deshmuhk |first3=K. |last4=Jha |first4=A.K. |last5=Verma |first5=S. |title=Routes of Drug Administration |url=https://romanpub.com/resources/ijpsr%20v11-2020-7.pdf |journal=International Journal of Pharmaceutical Studies and Research}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Latkin |first1=Carl A |last2=Knowlton |first2=Amy R |last3=Sherman |first3=Susan |date=2001-09-01 |title=Routes of drug administration, differential affiliation, and lifestyle stability among cocaine and opiate users: Implications to HIV prevention |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0899328901000700 |journal=Journal of Substance Abuse |series=SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND HIV |language=en |volume=13 |issue=1 |pages=89–102 |doi=10.1016/S0899-3289(01)00070-0 |pmid=11547627 |issn=0899-3289}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Gossop |first1=Michael |last2=Marsden |first2=John |last3=Stewart |first3=Duncan |last4=Treacy |first4=Samantha |date=August 2000 |title=Routes of drug administration and multiple drug misuse: regional variations among clients seeking treatment at programmes throughout England |url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1360-0443.2000.95811976.x |journal=Addiction |volume=95 |issue=8 |pages=1197–1206 |doi=10.1046/j.1360-0443.2000.95811976.x |pmid=11092067 |issn=0965-2140}}</ref>

Many drugs are taken through various routes. Intravenous route is the most efficient, but also one of the most dangerous. Nasal, rectal, inhalation and smoking are safer. The oral route is one of the safest and most comfortable, but of little [[bioavailability]].

==Types==
===Depressants===
{{Further|Depressant}}
Depressants are psychoactive drugs that temporarily diminish the function or activity of a specific part of the body or mind.<ref name="urlMSDS Glossary">{{cite web |url= http://www.utexas.edu/safety/ehs/msds/glossary/?page=d | title = Depressant | date =  30 August 2007 | work = MSDS Glossary | publisher = Environmental Health and Safety, University of Texas at Austin |access-date= 1 January 2009 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090117220900/http://www.utexas.edu/safety/ehs/msds/glossary/?page=d |archive-date= 17 January 2009}}</ref> Colloquially, depressants are known as "downers", and users generally take them to feel more relaxed and less tense. Examples of these kinds of effects may include anxiolysis, sedation, and hypotension. Depressants are widely used throughout the world as [[prescription medicine]]s and as [[prohibition (drugs)|illicit substances]]. When these are used, effects may include [[anxiolysis]] (reduction of anxiety), [[analgesia]] (pain relief), [[sedation]], [[somnolence]], cognitive/memory impairment, [[dissociation (psychology)|dissociation]], muscle relaxation, lowered [[blood pressure]]/[[heart rate]], [[respiratory depression]], [[anesthesia]], and [[anticonvulsant]] effects.  Depressants exert their effects through a number of different pharmacological mechanisms, the most prominent of which include potentiation of [[GABA]] or [[opioid]] activity, and inhibition of [[adrenergic]], [[histamine]] or [[acetylcholine]] activity. Some are also capable of inducing feelings of [[euphoria]]. The most widely used depressant by far is [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] (i.e. [[ethanol]]).

Stimulants or "uppers", such as [[amphetamines]] or [[cocaine]], which increase mental or physical function, have an opposite effect to depressants.

Depressants, in particular alcohol, can precipitate [[Substance-induced psychosis|psychosis]]. A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis by Murrie et al. found that the rate of transition from opioid, alcohol and [[sedative]] induced psychosis to schizophrenia was 12%, 10% and 9% respectively.<ref name="Transition of Substance-Induced, Br">{{cite journal | vauthors = Murrie B, Lappin J, Large M, Sara G | title = Transition of Substance-Induced, Brief, and Atypical Psychoses to Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis | journal = Schizophrenia Bulletin | volume = 46 | issue = 3 | pages = 505–516 | date = April 2020 | pmid = 31618428 | pmc = 7147575 | doi = 10.1093/schbul/sbz102 | doi-access = free }}</ref>

====Antihistamines====
{{Further|Antihistamine}}
Antihistamines (or "histamine antagonists") inhibit the release or action of [[histamine]]. "Antihistamine" can be used to describe any histamine antagonist, but the term is usually reserved for the [[H1 antagonist|classical antihistamines]] that act upon the [[histamine H1 receptor|H<sub>1</sub> histamine receptor]]. Antihistamines are used as treatment for [[allergies]]. Allergies are caused by an excessive response of the body to [[allergens]], such as the [[pollen]] released by grasses and trees. An allergic reaction causes release of histamine by the body. Other uses of antihistamines are to help with normal symptoms of insect stings even if there is no allergic reaction. Their recreational appeal exists mainly due to their [[anticholinergic]] properties, that induce [[anxiolysis]] and, in some cases such as [[diphenhydramine]], [[chlorpheniramine]], and [[orphenadrine]], a characteristic euphoria at moderate doses.{{Citation needed|date=July 2020}} High dosages taken to induce recreational drug effects may lead to overdoses. Antihistamines are also consumed in combination with alcohol, particularly by youth who find it hard to obtain alcohol. The combination of the two drugs can cause intoxication with lower alcohol doses.

Hallucinations and possibly delirium resembling the effects of [[Datura stramonium]] can result if the drug is taken in much higher than therapeutic doses. Antihistamines are widely available over the counter at drug stores (without a prescription), in the form of allergy medication and some [[cough medicine]]s. They are sometimes used in combination with other substances such as alcohol.
The most common unsupervised use of antihistamines in terms of volume and percentage of the total is perhaps in parallel to the medicinal use of some antihistamines to extend and intensify the effects of opioids and depressants. The most commonly used are [[hydroxyzine]], mainly to extend a supply of other drugs, as in medical use, and the above-mentioned ethanolamine and alkylamine-class first-generation antihistamines, which are – once again as in the 1950s – the subject of medical research into their anti-depressant properties.

For all of the above reasons, the use of medicinal scopolamine for recreational uses is also observed.

====Analgesics====
{{Further|Analgesic}}
Analgesics (also known as "painkillers") are used to relieve [[pain]] (achieve [[wikt:analgesia|analgesia]]). The word ''analgesic'' derives from Greek "αν-" (''an-'', "without") and "άλγος" (''álgos'', "pain"). Analgesic drugs act in various ways on the [[peripheral nervous system|peripheral]] and [[central nervous system|central]] nervous systems; they include [[paracetamol]] (also known in the US as acetaminophen), the [[nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug]]s (NSAIDs) such as the [[salicylate]]s (e.g. [[aspirin]]), and [[opioid]] drugs such as [[hydrocodone]], [[codeine]], [[heroin]] and [[oxycodone]]. Some further examples of the [[Brand|brand name]] [[prescription medication|prescription]] [[opiate]]s and [[opioid]] analgesics that may be used recreationally include Vicodin, Lortab, Norco (hydrocodone), Avinza, Kapanol (morphine), Opana, Paramorphan (oxymorphone), Dilaudid, Palladone (hydromorphone), and OxyContin (oxycodone).

====Tranquilizers====
{{Further|Tranquilizer}}
The following are examples of tranquilizers ([[gamma-Aminobutyric acid#GABAergic drugs|GABAergics]]):
* [[Barbiturate]]s
* [[Benzodiazepine]]s
* [[Ethanol]] (drinking alcohol; ethyl alcohol)
* [[Nonbenzodiazepine]]s
* Others
** [[carisoprodol]] (Soma)
** [[chloral hydrate]]
** [[diethyl ether]]
** [[ethchlorvynol]] (Placidyl; "jelly-bellies")
** [[gamma-butyrolactone]] (GBL, a prodrug to GHB)
** [[gamma-hydroxybutyrate]] (GHB; G; Xyrem; "Liquid Ecstasy", "Fantasy")
** [[glutethimide]] (Doriden)
** [[kava]] (from ''[[Piper methysticum]]''; contains [[kavalactone]]s)
** [[ketamine]], a [[phencyclidine]] (PCP) analog
** [[meprobamate]] (Miltown)
** [[methaqualone]] (Sopor, Mandrax; "Quaaludes")
** [[phenibut]]
** [[propofol]] (Diprivan), a general anesthetic
** [[theanine]] (found in ''[[Camellia sinensis]]'', the [[tea]] plant)
** [[Valerian (herb)|valerian]] (from ''[[Valeriana officinalis]]'')

===Stimulants===
{{Further|Stimulant}}
[[File:Cocaine lines 2.jpg|thumb|right|[[Cocaine]] is a commonly used [[stimulant]].]]
Stimulants, also known as "psychostimulants",<ref name="dorlands">{{cite web |url=http://www.mercksource.com/pp/us/cns/cns_hl_dorlands_split.jsp?pg=/ppdocs/us/common/dorlands/dorland/seven/000088218.htm |title= Psychostimulant | work = Dorlands Medical Dictionary }}</ref> induce [[euphoria]] with improvements in mental and physical function, such as enhanced alertness, wakefulness, and locomotion. Stimulants are also occasionally called "uppers". [[Depressant]]s or "downers", which decrease mental or physical function, are in stark contrast to stimulants and are considered to be their functional opposites.

Stimulants enhance the activity of the [[central nervous system|central]] and [[peripheral nervous system]]s. Common effects may include increased [[alertness]], [[awareness]], [[wakefulness]], [[endurance]], [[productivity]], and [[motivation]], [[arousal]], [[animal locomotion|locomotion]], [[heart rate]], and [[blood pressure]], and a diminished desire for [[food]] and [[sleep]].

Use of stimulants may cause the body to significantly reduce its production of endogenous compounds that fulfill similar functions. Once the effect of the ingested stimulant has worn off the user may feel depressed, lethargic, confused, and dysphoric. This is colloquially termed a "crash" and may promote reuse of the stimulant.

Amphetamines are a significant cause of drug-induced psychosis. Importantly, a 2019 meta-analysis found that 22% of people with amphetamine-induced psychosis transition to a later diagnosis of schizophrenia.<ref name="Transition of Substance-Induced, Br"/>

Examples of stimulants include:
* [[Sympathomimetic]]s ([[catecholaminergic]]s)—e.g. [[amphetamine]], [[methamphetamine]], [[cocaine]], [[methylphenidate]], [[ephedrine]], [[pseudoephedrine]]
* [[Entactogen]]s ([[Serotonin|serotonergic]]s, primarily phenethylamines)—e.g. [[MDMA]] (which is also an amphetamine)
* [[Eugeroics]], e.g. [[modafinil]]
* Others
** [[arecoline]] (found in ''[[Areca catechu]]'')
** [[caffeine]] (found in ''[[Coffea|Coffea spp.]]'')
** [[nicotine]] (found in ''[[Nicotiana|Nicotiana spp.]]'')
** [[rauwolscine]] (found in ''[[Rauvolfia serpentina]]'')
** [[yohimbine]] (Procomil; a tryptamine alkaloid found in ''[[Pausinystalia johimbe]]'')

===Euphoriants===
{{Further|Euphoriant}}
* Alcohol: "Euphoria, the feeling of well-being, has been reported during the early (10–15 min) phase of alcohol consumption" (e.g., beer, wine or spirits)<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Morgan CJ, Badawy AA | title = Alcohol-induced euphoria: exclusion of serotonin | journal = Alcohol and Alcoholism | volume = 36 | issue = 1 | pages = 22–5 | year = 2001 | pmid = 11139411 | doi = 10.1093/alcalc/36.1.22 | doi-access = free }}</ref>
* [[Cannabis]]: [[Tetrahydrocannabinol]], the main psychoactive ingredient in this plant, can have sedative and euphoric properties.
* Catnip: Catnip contains a sedative known as [[nepetalactone]] that activates opioid receptors. In cats it elicits sniffing, licking, chewing, head shaking, rolling, and rubbing which are indicators of pleasure. In humans, however, catnip does not act as a euphoriant.<ref>{{cite book| vauthors = Foster S |title=A field guide to Western Medicinal Plants and Herbs|year=2002|publisher=Houghton Mifflin Company|location=New York|pages=58|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tg_bPUzhJ9oC|isbn=978-0395838068}}</ref>
* [[Stimulant]]s: "Psychomotor stimulants produce locomotor activity (the subject becomes hyperactive), euphoria, (often expressed by excessive talking and garrulous behaviour), and anorexia. The amphetamines are the best known drugs in this category..."<ref>{{cite book | vauthors = Cuthbert AW  | chapter = Stimulants | chapter-url = https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198524038.001.0001/acref-9780198524038-e-907?rskey=qkpdPJ&result=904 | veditors = Blakemore C, Jennett S |title=The Oxford companion to The body |date=2001 |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=Oxford |isbn=978-0-19-852403-8}}</ref>
* [[MDMA]]: The "euphoriant drugs such as [[MDMA]] ('ecstasy') and MDEA ('eve')" are popular among young adults.<ref name="Body 2001">{{cite book | vauthors = Hayward R  | chapter = Euphoria | chapter-url = https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780198524038.001.0001/acref-9780198524038-e-345?rskey=TYdfnF&result=344 | veditors = Blakemore C, Jennett S |title=The Oxford companion to The body |date=2001 |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=Oxford |isbn=978-0-19-852403-8}}</ref> MDMA "users experience short-term feelings of euphoria, rushes of energy and increased tactility"<ref>{{cite book | chapter = Ecstasy | chapter-url = https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780199546091.001.0001/acref-9780199546091-e-3615?rskey=Q2GuNL&result=3419 |title=The World Encyclopedia |date=2001 |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=New York, N.Y. |isbn=978-0-19-954609-1 | doi = 10.1093/acref/9780199546091.001.0001 }}</ref> as well as interpersonal connectedness.
* [[Opium]]: This "drug derived from the unripe seed-pods of the opium poppy…produces drowsiness and euphoria and reduces pain. Morphine and codeine are opium derivatives."<ref>{{cite book | chapter = Opium | chapter-url = https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780199546091.001.0001/acref-9780199546091-e-8463?rskey=PxvD3j&result=7884 |title=The World Encyclopedia |date=2001 |publisher=Oxford University Press |location=New York, N.Y. |isbn=978-0-19-954609-1 | doi = 10.1093/acref/9780199546091.001.0001 }}</ref> Opioids have led to many deaths in the United States, particularly by causing respiratory depression.

===Hallucinogens===
{{Further|Hallucinogen}}
{{See also|List of psychedelic drugs}}
Hallucinogens can be divided into three broad categories: [[psychedelic drug|psychedelic]]s, [[dissociative]]s, and [[deliriant]]s. They can cause subjective changes in [[perception]], [[thought]], [[emotion]] and [[consciousness]]. Unlike other psychoactive drugs such as [[stimulants]] and [[opioids]], hallucinogens do not merely amplify familiar states of mind but also induce experiences that differ from those of ordinary consciousness, often compared to non-ordinary forms of consciousness such as [[trance]], [[meditation]], conversion experiences, and [[dream]]s.

Psychedelics, dissociatives, and deliriants have a long worldwide history of use within medicinal and religious traditions. They are used in [[shamanic]] forms of ritual [[healing]] and [[divination]], in [[initiation rites]], and in the religious rituals of [[syncretistic]] movements such as [[União do Vegetal]], [[Santo Daime]], [[Temple of the True Inner Light]], and the [[Native American Church]]. When used in religious practice, psychedelic drugs, as well as other substances like [[tobacco]], are referred to as [[entheogens]].

Hallucinogen-induced psychosis occurs when psychosis persists despite no longer being intoxicated with the drug. It is estimated that 26% of people with hallucinogen-induced psychosis will transition to a diagnosis of schizophrenia. This percentage is less than the psychosis transition rate for cannabis (34%) but higher than that of amphetamines (22%).<ref name="Transition of Substance-Induced, Br"/>

Starting in the mid-20th century, psychedelic drugs have been the object of extensive attention in the Western world. They have been and are being explored as potential therapeutic agents in treating [[clinical depression|depression]], [[post-traumatic stress disorder]], [[obsessive–compulsive disorder]], [[alcoholism]], and [[opioid addiction]]. Yet the most popular, and at the same time most stigmatized, use of psychedelics in Western culture has been associated with the search for direct [[religious experience]], enhanced [[creativity]], personal development, and "mind expansion". The use of psychedelic drugs was a major element of the 1960s [[counterculture]], where it became associated with various social movements and a general atmosphere of rebellion and strife between generations.
* [[Deliriant]]s
** [[atropine]] (alkaloid found in plants of the family ''[[Solanaceae]]'', including [[Datura stramonium|datura]], deadly nightshade, [[Hyoscyamus niger|henbane]] and [[Mandragora officinarum|mandrake]])
** [[dimenhydrinate]] (Dramamine, an [[antihistamine]])
** [[diphenhydramine]] (Benadryl, Unisom, Nytol)
** [[hyoscyamine]] (alkaloid also found in the Solanaceae)
** [[hyoscine hydrobromide]] (another Solanaceae alkaloid)
** [[myristicin]] (found in ''[[Myristica fragrans]]'' ("Nutmeg"))
** [[ibotenic acid]] (found in ''[[Amanita muscaria]]'' ("Fly Agaric"); [[prodrug]] to muscimol)
** [[muscimol]] (also found in ''[[Amanita muscaria]]'', a [[gamma-Aminobutyric acid#GABAergic drugs|GABAergic]])
* [[Dissociative]]s
** [[dextromethorphan]] (DXM; Robitussin, Delsym, etc.; "Dex", "Robo", "Cough Syrup", "DXM")
*** ''"Triple C's, Coricidin, Skittles" refer to a potentially fatal formulation containing both dextromethorphan and [[chlorpheniramine]].''
** [[ketamine]] (K; Ketalar, Ketaset, Ketanest; "Ket", "Kit Kat", "Special-K", "Vitamin K", "Jet Fuel", "Horse Tranquilizer")
** [[methoxetamine]] (Mex, Mket, Mexi)
** [[phencyclidine]] (PCP; Sernyl; "Angel Dust", "Rocket Fuel", "Sherm", "Killer Weed", "Super Grass")
** [[nitrous oxide]] (N<sub>2</sub>O; "NOS", "Laughing Gas", "Whippets", "Balloons")
* [[Psychedelic drug|Psychedelic]]s
** [[Phenethylamine]]s
*** [[2C-B]] ("Nexus", "Venus", "Eros", "Bees")
*** [[2C-E]] ("Eternity", "Hummingbird")
*** [[2C-I]] ("Infinity")
*** [[2C-T-2]] ("Rosy")
*** [[2C-T-7]] ("Blue Mystic", "Lucky 7")
*** [[2,5-dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine|DOB]]
*** [[4-chloro-2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine|DOC]]
*** [[2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine|DOI]]
*** [[2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine|DOM]] ("Serenity, Tranquility, and Peace" ("STP"))
*** [[3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine|MDMA]] ("Ecstasy", "E", "Molly", "Mandy", "MD", "Crystal Love")
*** [[mescaline]] (found in [[peyote]] and ''[[Trichocereus macrogonus]]'' (Peruvian torch, San Pedro cactus))
** [[Tryptamine]]s (including [[ergoline]]s and [[lysergamide]]s)
*** [[5-MeO-DiPT]] ("Foxy", "Foxy Methoxy")
*** [[5-MeO-DMT]] (found in various plants like [[chacruna]], [[Mimosa tenuiflora|jurema]], [[Anadenanthera colubrina|vilca]], and [[yopo]])
*** [[alpha-methyltryptamine]] (αMT; Indopan; "Spirals")
*** [[bufotenin]] (secreted by ''[[Bufo alvarius]]'', also found in various ''[[Amanita]]'' mushrooms)
*** [[N,N-dimethyltryptamine]] (N,N-DMT; DMT; "Dimitri", "Disneyland", "Spice"; found in large amounts in [[Psychotria]] and in [[Diplopterys cabrerana|D. cabrerana]])
*** [[lysergic acid amide]] (LSA; ergine; found in [[morning glory]] and [[Hawaiian baby woodrose]] seeds)
*** [[lysergic acid diethylamide]] (LSD; L; Delysid; "Acid", "Sid". "Cid", "Lucy", "Sidney", "Blotters", "Droppers", "Sugar Cubes")
***[[O-Acetylpsilocin|''O''-Acetylpsilocin]] (believed to be a [[prodrug]] of psilocin)
*** [[psilocin]] (found in psilocybin mushrooms)
*** [[psilocybin]] (also found in psilocybin mushrooms; prodrug to psilocin)
*** [[ibogaine]] (found in ''[[Tabernanthe iboga]]'' ("Iboga"))
* Atypicals
** [[salvinorin A]] (found in ''Salvia divinorum'', a ''trans''-neoclerodane [[diterpenoid]] ("Diviner's Sage", "Lady Salvia", "Salvinorin"))
** [[tetrahydrocannabinol]] (found in [[cannabis (drug)|cannabis]])

===Inhalants===
{{Further|Inhalant}}
Inhalants are [[gas]]es, [[aerosol]]s, or solvents that are breathed in and absorbed through the lungs. While some "inhalant" drugs are used for [[List of medical inhalants|medical purposes]], as in the case of [[nitrous oxide]], a dental anesthetic, inhalants are used as recreational drugs for their intoxicating effect.<ref name="ACB 2020">{{cite journal |author1-last=Quax |author1-first=Marcel L. J. |author2-last=Van Der Steenhoven |author2-first=Timothy J. |author3-last=Bronkhorst |author3-first=Martinus W. G. A. |author4-last=Emmink |author4-first=Benjamin L. |date=July 2020 |title=Frostbite injury: An unknown risk when using nitrous oxide as a party drug |journal=Acta Chirurgica Belgica |publisher=[[Taylor & Francis]] on behalf of the Royal Belgian Society for Surgery |volume=120 |issue=1–4 |pages=140–143 |doi=10.1080/00015458.2020.1782160 |issn=0001-5458 |pmid=32543291 |s2cid=219702849}}</ref> Most inhalant drugs that are used non-medically are ingredients in household or industrial chemical products that are not intended to be concentrated and inhaled, including organic [[solvent]]s (found in cleaning products, fast-drying glues, and [[nail polish]] removers), fuels ([[gasoline]] (petrol) and [[kerosene]]), and propellant gases such as [[Freon]] and compressed [[hydrofluorocarbon]]s that are used in aerosol cans such as hairspray, whipped cream, and non-stick cooking spray. A small number of recreational inhalant drugs are pharmaceutical products that are used illicitly, such as anesthetics ([[ether]] and nitrous oxide)<ref name="ACB 2020"/> and volatile anti-[[Angina pectoris|angina]] drugs ([[Poppers|alkyl nitrites]], more commonly known as "poppers").

The most serious inhalant abuse occurs among children and teens who "[...] live on the streets completely without family ties".<ref name="monographs">{{cite book | vauthors = Edwards RW, Oetting ER | chapter = Inhalant use in the United States | veditors = Kozel N, Sloboda Z, De La Rosa M | title = Epidemiology of Inhalant Abuse: An International Perspective. Proceedings of a meeting. July 21-22, 1993 | series = NIDA Research Monograph | volume = 148 | pages = 8–28  | date = 1995 | pmid = 8999334 | doi = | url = http://www.drugabuse.gov/pdf/monographs/148.pdf | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060926054236/http://www.drugabuse.gov/pdf/monographs/148.pdf | archive-date = 26 September 2006 }}</ref> Inhalant users inhale [[vapor]] or aerosol propellant gases using plastic bags held over the mouth or by breathing from a solvent-soaked rag or an open container. The effects of inhalants range from an alcohol-like intoxication and intense euphoria to vivid [[hallucination]]s, depending on the substance and the dosage. Some inhalant users are injured due to the harmful effects of the solvents or gases, or due to other chemicals used in the products inhaled. As with any recreational drug, users can be injured due to dangerous behavior while they are intoxicated, such as driving under the influence. Computer cleaning dusters are dangerous to inhale, because the gases expand and cool rapidly upon being sprayed. In many cases, users have died from [[Hypoxia (medical)|hypoxia]] (lack of oxygen), pneumonia, cardiac failure or arrest,<ref name="gdcada.org">{{cite web | url = http://www.gdcada.org/statistics/inhalants.htm | title = Inhalants | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090408021738/http://www.gdcada.org/statistics/inhalants.htm | archive-date = 8 April 2009 | work = Greater Dallas Council on Alcohol & Drug Abuse }}</ref> or aspiration of vomit.

Examples include:
* [[Chloroform]]
* [[Ethyl chloride]]
* [[Diethyl ether]]
* [[Ethane]] and [[ethylene]]
* [[Laughing gas]] ([[nitrous oxide]])<ref name="ACB 2020"/>
* [[Poppers]] ([[alkyl nitrite]]s)
* [[Solvent]]s and [[propellant]]s (including [[propane]], [[butane]], [[freon]], [[gasoline]], [[kerosene]], [[toluene]]) along with the [[Vapor|fumes]] of [[glue]]s containing them

==List of drugs which can be smoked==
{{no sources|section|date=January 2023}}
{{See also|Smoking|List of plants used for smoking}}
Plants:
* [[tobacco]]
* [[cannabis (drug)|cannabis]]
* [[salvia divinorum]]
* [[opium]]
* [[datura]] and other ''[[Solanaceae]]'' (formerly smoked to treat [[asthma]])
* possibly other plants (see the section below)

Substances (also not necessarily psychoactive plants smoked within them):
* [[methamphetamine]]
* [[crack cocaine]]
* black tar [[heroin]]
* [[phencyclidine]] (PCP)
* synthetic [[cannabinoids]] (see also: [[synthetic cannabis]])
* [[dimethyltryptamine]] (DMT)
* [[5-MeO-DMT]]
* [[Bufotenine]]
* [[DiPT]]
* [[Methaqualone]]
* [[Ethanol]] (alcohol)
* [[Ketamine]]
* [[Heroin]]
* many others, including some prescription drugs

==List of psychoactive plants, fungi, and animals==
{{no sources|section|date=January 2023}}
{{See also|List of psychoactive plants}}

Minimally psychoactive plants which contain mainly caffeine and [[theobromine]]:
* [[coffee]]
* [[tea]] (caffeine in tea is sometimes called theine) – also contains [[theanine]]
* [[guarana]] (caffeine in guarana is sometimes called guaranine)
* [[yerba mate]] (caffeine in yerba mate is sometimes called mateine)
* [[Theobroma cacao|cocoa]]
* [[Kola nut|kola]]

Most known psychoactive plants:
* [[cannabis]]: [[cannabinoids]]
* [[tobacco]]: [[nicotine]] and [[beta-carboline]] [[alkaloid]]s
* [[coca]]: cocaine
* [[opium poppy]]: [[morphine]], [[codeine]], and other [[opiates]]
* [[salvia divinorum]]: [[salvinorin A]]
* [[khat]]: [[cathine]] and [[cathinone]]
* [[kava]]: [[kavalactones]]
* [[nutmeg]]: [[myristicin]] and [[elemicin]]

''Solanaceae'' plants—contain [[atropine]], [[hyoscyamine]], and [[scopolamine]]:
* [[datura]]
* deadly nightshade ''[[Atropa belladonna]]''
* [[Hyoscyamus niger|henbane]]
* [[Mandragora (genus)|mandrake]] (''mandragora'')
* other ''Solanaceae''

''[[Cacti]]'' with [[mescaline]]:
* [[Peyote]]
* ''[[Trichocereus macrogonus]]'', the Peruvian torch cactus, and in particular its variety [[Trichocereus macrogonus var. pachanoi|''T.&nbsp;macrogonus'' var. ''pachanoi'']], the San Pedro cactus

Other plants:
* [[kratom]]: [[mitragynine]], [[mitraphylline]], [[7-hydroxymitragynine]], [[raubasine]], and [[corynanthine]]
* [[Ephedra (plant)|ephedra]]: ephedrine
* [[damiana]]
* ''[[Calea zacatechichi]]''
* ''[[Silene capensis]]''
* [[valerian (herb)|valerian]]: [[valeriana|valerian]] (the chemical with the same name)
* various plants like [[chacruna]], [[Mimosa tenuiflora|jurema]], [[Anadenanthera colubrina|vilca]], and [[yopo]] – 5-MeO-DMT
* [[Morning glory]] and [[Hawaiian Baby Woodrose]] – [[lysergic acid amide]] (LSA, ergine)
* [[Ayahuasca]] (for DMT)
* ''[[Tabernanthe iboga]]'' ("Iboga")—[[ibogaine]]
* ''[[Areca catechu]]'' (see: [[betel]] and [[paan]])—[[arecoline]]
* ''[[Rauvolfia serpentina]]'': [[rauwolscine]]
* yohimbe (''[[Pausinystalia johimbe]]''): [[yohimbine]] and corynanthine
* many others

Fungi:
* [[psilocybin mushrooms]]: [[psilocybin]] and [[psilocin]]
* various ''[[Amanita]]'' mushrooms: [[muscimol]]
* ''[[Amanita muscaria]]'': [[ibotenic acid]] and [[muscimol]]
* ''[[Claviceps purpurea]]'' and other ''[[Clavicipitaceae]]'': [[ergotamine]] (not psychoactive itself but used in synthesis of [[LSD]])

Psychoactive animals:
* [[hallucinogenic fish]]
* [[psychoactive toads]]: ''[[Bufo alvarius]]'' ([[Colorado River toad]] or Sonoran Desert toad) contains [[bufotenin]] (5-MeO-DMT)

==See also==
{{div col|colwidth=20em}}
===Law and policy===
* Approaches
** [[Demand reduction]]
** [[Harm reduction]]
** [[Supply reduction]]
* [[Alcohol licensing laws of the United Kingdom]]
* [[Ban on caffeinated alcoholic drinks in the United States]]
* [[Drug policy]]
** [[Drug checking]]
** [[Drug education]]
** [[Drug liberalization]]
** [[Prohibition of drugs]]
* [[Drug rehabilitation]]
** [[Drug addiction recovery groups]]
** [[Native American temperance activists]]
** [[Sober living environment]]
* [[Illegal drug trade]]
* [[Legalization of non-medical cannabis in the United States]]
* [[Over the counter drug]]
* [[Regulation of therapeutic goods]]

===[[Pharmacology]]===
* [[Effective dose (pharmacology)|Effective dose]]
* [[Effects of cannabis]]
* [[Median lethal dose]]
* [[Psychopharmacology]]
* [[Psychotomimetism]]
* [[Toxicity]]

===Tobacco-related topics===
* [[Cigarette packets in Australia]]
* [[Flavored tobacco]]
* [[Prevalence of tobacco use]]
* [[Tobacco harm reduction]]
* [[Tobacco marketing targeting African Americans]]
* [[Tobacco packaging warning messages]]
* [[Usage of electronic cigarettes]]

===Drug-related literature===
* ''[[Confessions of an English Opium-Eater]]'' (1821)
* ''[[Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas]]'' (1971)
* ''[[Les Paradis artificiels]]'' (1860)
* ''[[Licit and Illicit Drugs]]'' (1972)
* ''[[Marihuana: The First Twelve Thousand Years]]'' (1980)
* ''[[Methland]]'' (2009)
* ''[[Smoke and Mirrors: The War on Drugs and the Politics of Failure]]'' (1996)
* ''[[The Doors of Perception]]'' (1954)
* ''[[The Hasheesh Eater]]'' (1857)
* ''[[This Is Your Country On Drugs]]'' (2009)

===Other topics===
* [[Counterfeit medications]]
* [[Designer drug]]
* [[Gateway drug effect]]
* [[Polysubstance use]] and [[Polysubstance dependence|abuse]]
* [[Project MKUltra]]
* [[Project SCUM]]
* [[Psychedelic experience]]
* [[Recreational drug use in animals]]
* [[Recreational use of dextromethorphan]]
* [[Recreational use of ketamine]]
* [[Victimless crime]]
{{div col end}}

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite book |author1-last=Martin |author1-first=Christopher S. |author2-last=Chung |author2-first=Tammy |author3-last=Langenbucher |author3-first=James W. |year=2017 |chapter=Part 1: Defining and Characterizing the Nature and Extent of Substance Use Disorders – Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O-goDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA27 |editor-last=Sher |editor-first=Kenneth J. |title=The Oxford Handbook of Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders: Volume 1 |location=[[Oxford]] and [[New York City|New York]] |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |series=Oxford Library of Psychology |pages=27–59 |doi=10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199381678.013.001 |isbn=9780199381678 |lccn=2016020729}}
* {{cite book |author1-last=Anthony |author1-first=James |author2-last=Barondess |author2-first=David A. |author3-last=Radovanovic |author3-first=Mirjana |author4-last=Lopez-Quintero |author4-first=Catalina |year=2017 |chapter=Part 1: Psychiatric Comorbidity – Polydrug Use: Research Topics and Issues |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_MySDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA27 |editor-last=Sher |editor-first=Kenneth J. |title=The Oxford Handbook of Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders: Volume 2 |location=[[Oxford]] and [[New York City|New York]] |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |series=Oxford Library of Psychology |pages=27–59 |doi=10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199381708.013.006 |isbn=9780199381708 |lccn=2016020729}}
* {{cite book |author1-last=Hernández-Serrano |author1-first=Olga |author2-last=Gras |author2-first=Maria E. |author3-last=Font-Mayolas |author3-first=Sílvia |author4-last=Sullman |author4-first=Mark J. M. |year=2016 |chapter=Part VI: Dual and Polydrug Abuse – Chapter 83: Types of Polydrug Usage |editor-last=Preedy |editor-first=Victor R. |title=Neuropathology of Drug Addictions and Substance Misuse, Volume 3: General Processes and Mechanisms, Prescription Medications, Caffeine and Areca, Polydrug Misuse, Emerging Addictions and Non-Drug Addictions |location=[[Cambridge, Massachusetts]] |publisher=[[Academic Press]], imprint of [[Elsevier]] |pages=839–849 |doi=10.1016/B978-0-12-800634-4.00083-4 |isbn=978-0-12-800634-4}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Recreational drug use}}
* {{cite web |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=26 May 2020 |title=The Science of Drug Use: A Resource for the Justice Sector |url=https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/criminal-justice/science-drug-use-resource-justice-sector |url-status=live |website=www.drugabuse.gov |location=[[North Bethesda, Maryland]] |publisher=[[National Institute on Drug Abuse]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906151842/https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/criminal-justice/science-drug-use-resource-justice-sector |archive-date=6 September 2023 |access-date=21 March 2024}}
* {{cite book |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=31 January 2018 |title=School-Based Drug Abuse Prevention: Promising and Successful Programs |url=https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/sclbsd-drgbs/sclbsd-drgbs-eng.pdf |url-status=live |location=[[Ottawa, Ontario]] |publisher=[[Public Safety Canada]] |isbn=978-1-100-12181-9 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519141305/https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/sclbsd-drgbs/sclbsd-drgbs-eng.pdf |archive-date=19 May 2021 |access-date=21 March 2024}}
* {{cite web |author1-last=Sacco |author1-first=L. N. |author2-last=Finklea |author2-first=K. |date=3 May 2016 |url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42066.pdf |url-status=live |title=Synthetic Drugs: Overview and Issues for Congress |location=[[Washington, D.C.]] |publisher=[[Congressional Research Service]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211208164344/https://sgp.fas.org/crs/misc/R42066.pdf |archive-date=8 December 2021 |access-date=21 March 2024}}

{{Drug use}}
{{Euphoriants}}
{{Hallucinogens}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Recreational Drug Use}}
[[Category:Drug culture]]
[[Category:History of drug control]]
[[Category:Psychoactive drugs]]