Understanding Illegal Drugs

What are Illegal Drugs? Illegal drugs refer to classifications of chemicals that an individual, by law, is not allowed to possess, use or distribute. Illegal drugs are often addictive and deadly in nature; illegal drugs are often damaging to an individual’s mental state and physical healthy. The classification of which drugs are considered legal or illegal will vary from country to country. Furthermore, the punishments tied-into possession, use and the intent to distribute such drugs will also vary based on location. For instance, being found with a certain illegal drug may be legal (subject to fine) in one location, but it may carry grave felonious charges in another. Legal Drugs versus Illegal Drugs: Legal drugs are drugs that an individual is allowed to have. This classification of course depends on the jurisdiction in which the individual is located in. If an individual purchases legal or over the counter drugs, they will not be punished by a governing body or law enforcement agency. Additionally, an illegal drug can carry legal use, typically for a medicinal application. Heroin or Morphine for example, is an effective painkiller, but in a generic setting, these drugs are deemed illegal and highly dangerous. By contrast, illegal drugs are drugs that a person is not allowed to possess, use or distribute. If an individual is caught with illegal drugs they will be punished according to the applicable drug laws of the respective location. In some instances the individual in possession will be fined, but for more serious illegal drugs, the individual will have to go to court for a pending jail sentence. Examples of Illegal Drugs: Heroin: This illegal drug is considered one of the most deadly and addictive chemical substances throughout the world. Heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid that gives it’s user an intense high. In addition to its illegal use, heroin may be used as an analgesic. Cocaine: This illegal drug is extracted from the cocoa plant. Cocaine is a stimulant extract of naturally-occurring substances. Crack: A free base form of cocaine that can be smoked. Crack is a common street drug as a result of its cheap cost. Crystal Meth: A methamphetamine and stimulant related to various amphetamines. Crystal Meth can be used in a legal fashion, particularly for the treatment of Narcolepsy. Marijuana: This illegal drug comes from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant, which may be obtained legally as a prescription in 12 states, including California, Arizona and Montana. Ecstasy: Or MDMA, is a psychoactive drug in the amphetamine class. Ecstasy may cause feelings of euphoria, empathy and may lessen anxiety. This illegal drug also has horrible side effects, that are perpetuated with higher doses and regular use; the side effects include insomnia, constant jaw clenching and severe depression.