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Drugs, Alcohol & Volatile Substances

What you need to know

Crucial questions page 4

999 page 6

No problem! Page 7-10

Quiz page 11

Bad deal page 12

The law unlocked page 13-14

Contents

EvEryonE has somEthing to say about

DRUGS? WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL ...?

it answers questions, sorts problems, explains the risks

and drops in on dilemmas and debates. Whatever your

viewpoint - there’s something inside for everyone.

and if it’s info you’re after, our Drug FiLEs are one essential source you’ll return to again and again.

you’ll find no preaching here - the FaCts speak for themselves.

Even so, it’s still an issue wrapped in myths, and often fiction gets in the way of the facts.Knowing the score isn’t just about knowing the buzz different drugs can give. it’s also about being aware of the effects they can have on your minD, your boDy and even the way you live your life. there are serious risks linked to drug taking, so it’s vital to get your hands on information you can trust.

Drugs

this booKLEt puts you squarELy in thE piCturE about Drugs.

purE

2

Alcohol page 15

Anabolic steroids page 17

Cannabis page 19

Cocaine page 20 Crack page 21

Ecstasy page 22 GHB page 23

Heroin page 24

Ketamine page 25

LSD (acid) page 26

Magic mushrooms page 27

Methylamphetamine page 28

Poppers (alkyl nitrites) page 29

Volatile Substances page 30

Speed (amphetamines) page 31

Tobacco page 32

Tranquillisers page 33

DRUG FILES

3Electronic copies are available at: www.wales.gov.uk/substancemisuse

4 DIFFERENT DRUGS HAVE DIFFERENT EFFECTS

people take certain drugs to make them feel confident and excited. others use drugs to relax them or affect the way they see things. it’s impossible to accurately predict the effects of any drug. much depends on the amount taken, the user’s mood and their surroundings. however, some drugs can be divided into broad groups:

Drugs which act on the central nervous system and increase brain activity. (Anabolic steroids; cocaine; crack; ecstasy; poppers; speed; tobacco)

Drugs which act on the central nervous system and slow down brain activity. (Alcohol; gases, glues and aerosols; tranquillisers)

Drugs which act on the mind, distorting the way users see and hear things. (Cannabis; ketamine; LSD; magic mushrooms)

Drugs which have a painkilling effect. (Heroin)

CRUCIAL QUESTIONS

There is NO connection between the picture and the effects of the acid tab.Users can experience trips differently every time. The effects depend on the user’s mood, where they are and who they’re with at the time. There is no way of predicting what a trip will be like. NOTHING!

‘WHAT DOES THE PICTURE ON A TAB OF ACID SAY

stimuLants: anaLgEsiCs:haLLuCinogEns: DEprEssants:

ABOUT THE

TRIP?’

ECSTASY?’Basically, no one really knows.

The chemical name for ecstasy is MDMA and what we do know is that MDMA:

dramatically affects the brain chemistry of animals;

has also been linked to liver and kidney problems;

heavy long-term use may increase the chance of severe depression and other

mental illnesses in later life. In many ways, ecstasy users are

human guinea pigs.

‘WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERMEFFECTS OF TAKING

4

LSD and magic mushrooms are hallucinogenic drugs - they change the way a user sees and hears things. This is called a trip. A flashback is something that:

‘WHEN PEOPLE TALK ABOUT

FLASHBACKSWHAT DO THEY MEAN?’

can happen later - days, months, even years after taking the drug; is a sudden memory of something from a previous trip; may not last long, but can seem very real. If you’re doing something like crossing a road at the time it could leave you exposed to serious danger.

The effects may be unexpected.Many drugs sold on the ‘street’ have been mixed with other substances, so users can never be sure what they’re getting.Users may become tolerant to some drugs (e.g. alcohol, heroin and speed). This means their bodies have become so used to the drug they need to take more to get the effect they want.Users may overdose (take too much for their bodies to handle). With alcohol, heroin and gases, glues and aerosols, an overdose can prove fatal.

ALL DRUGS CARRY RISKS

‘IS CANNABIS SAFE?

OK, so you can buy cigarettes at 18, and if you’re 18 pubs can sell you alcoholic drinks, but tobacco and alcohol can be abused like any drug.Smoke and you risk cancer, heart disease and serious lung problems.In the UK, about 13 people die every hour because of smoking-related diseases.Drink too much alcohol and you risk damage to the heart, liver, stomach and brain.1.8 percent of the 15,000 referrals into alcohol treatment services in 2006-07, were under 15 years old.

“SMOKING AND DRINKING AREN’T

ILLEGAL SO WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?”

5

You may have heard people say that

cannabis is risk free. This isn’t true.Heavy use of cannabis over a long period of time can lead to users relying on the drug as a way of relaxing and being sociable.Heavy, long-term cannabis use can make you feel less energetic than normal. This can have a negative effect on the way you live your life.

Smoking cannabis with tobacco causes lung damage. In fact it’s reckoned that smoke from an unfiltered spliff carries more risks than a cigarette. However, people tend to smoke many more cigarettes than spliffs.

For information on first aid courses, call the Red Cross (0844 871 8000) or St John Ambulance (08700 104 950).

6

999Drugs affect everyone differently. Sometimes people suffer a bad reaction. If it all goes horribly wrong, don’t be the one who stands back helpless.

999 NOTE: If you’ve called an ambulance and you know what drugs have been taken, always tell the crew. IT MIGHT SAVE A LIFE and you won’t get into trouble.

gEts rEaLLy DroWsy

Calm them and be reassuring.nEvEr give coffee to rouse them.If symptoms persist, place them in the recovery position (see picture).Call an ambulance if necessary.

A risk with heroin, tranquillisers and misuse of gases, glues and aerosols.

gEts tEnsE anD paniCs

Calm them and be reassuring.Explain that the feelings will pass.Steer them clear of crowds, noisy music and bright lights.If they start breathing very quickly, calm

them down and encourage them to take long, slow breaths.

Can occur with ecstasy, LSD, magic mushrooms and speed.

gEts too hot anD DEhyDratEs

Move them to a cooler, quiet area (outside is often best).Remove excess clothing and try to cool them down.

Encourage them to sip non-alcoholic fluids such as fruit juice and isotonic sports drinks (about a pint every hour).If symptoms persist call an ambulance, but make sure someone stays with them.

Ecstasy and speed affect the body’s temperature control. if users dance energetically without taking regular breaks or keeping up fluids, there’s a real danger that their bodies could overheat and dehydrate (lose too much body fluid). Warning signs include: cramps, fainting, headache or sudden tiredness.

bEComEs unConsCious

Call an ambulance. Place them in therecovery position (see picture). Check breathing. Be prepared to do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Keep them warm, but not too hot.

a danger for:someone on alcohol; gases, glues and aerosols; heroin; poppers; tranquillisers.people who suffer a bad reaction to ecstasy.Ecstasy users who dance and don’t keep up fluids (see page 20)

Know what you can do if someone:

THE

RECOVERY POSITION

My boyfriend’s into ECSTASY. He says it doesn’t do any harm, but after a night out he’s always exhausted and snappy with me. He really upsets me when he’s like this. He also blows most of his cash this way and sometimes I wonder whether he’s more interested in E than he is in me.

Dear KatieFrequent and heavy use of some drugs can HAVE A BAD EFFECT ON USERS’ LIVES. obviously this isn’t doing you any favours. but DON’T BOTTLE UP YOUR WORRIES - TALK. Just choose your moment wisely - if he’s feeling low he won’t react well. ultimately, it’s down to him to WISE UP - not just to the damage he could do to himself but to your relationship too.

WHO SHOULD I BELIEVE?

Annie is a drugs counsellor working with a local project. Here she sorts out

Dear SteffanJust because your friend says he had a good time on acid doesn’t mean you will too. in fact there’s no guarantEE he’ll repeat his last experience. Like many drugs, the effects of an LSD trip are different for everyone. MUCH DEPENDS ON YOUR MOOD, where you are and who you’re with when you take the acid - not what batch it came from - and a baD trip Can bE a tErriFying ExpEriEnCE. get to know the facts about drugs, and the risks involved will become clear. as for the info you’re after, always be sure of your sources. this booklet and the Dan 24/7 hELpLinE (see below) are two you can trust.

My best mate Gary’s bugging me to take an acid trip with him. He says there’s no way I’ll have a bad trip on his tabs, but I’ve read somewhere that you can never predict the effects of LSD. I’m scared I’ll have a bad experience. Steffan, 14, Swansea

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your questions:

7

HIS HIGHS LEAVE ME LOW

Katie, 16, Wrexham

If you’re worried about any drug issue, call DAN 24/7 HELPLINE ON 0800 6 33 55 88. They can also put you in touch with your local drug agency. Ring in an emergency or just call for info and advice.

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Dear RobSpeed is a stimulant. THE DRUG WORKS BY STEPPING UP THE HEART RATE, making users feel confident and able to concentrate for longer periods. But speed can’t make you perform any better in exams. It may make you THINK you’ve done brilliantly, but when you get the results you’ll probably GET A SHOCK. What’s more, speed can bring on MOOD SWINGS, IRRITABILITY AND PARANOIA - three things you don’t want at the best of times, especially not during exams! To do your best you don’t need drugs. A revision plan and a CLEAR HEAD will be much more helpful.

WOULD SPEED HELP ME PASS MY EXAMS?

Recently I mentioned to a mate that I was worried about exams. She suggested speed could help me focus, and give me the confidence I need to pass. Is this true?

Rob, 15, Bangor

8

alcohol booze alcopops spirits

SHE’S DROWNING HER SORROWS

Dear GemmaALCOHOL IS A DEPRESSANT DRUG. Your friend may be BOOzING TO BLANK OUT HER PROBLEMS but it’s likely to leave her feeling worse. To help herself, she has to recognise that GETTING DRUNK WON’T MAKE THINGS BETTER. First she needs to deal with her feelings about the split, but you can’t force her to open up. Instead, MAKE HER AWARE that you’re prepared to listen when she’s ready to talk. To sober up she needs to find her self-respect again. Being her friend will help her back on her feet. For more advice call DRINKLINE ON 0800 9178282. Give her the number too.

A GOOD FRIEND was dumped recently by her boyfriend. She pretends it’s no big deal, but I know she’s hiding her real feelings. We’ve been to a few parties since it happened, and EVERY TIME SHE’S GOT BADLY DRUNK. It’s really unlike her, but I don’t know how to help.

Gemma, 16, Monmouth

Dear Garetha ‘FORMAL CAUTION’ is sometimes given by the police where an offence has been committed, but they decide not to take the person to court because that

person has ADMITTED TO THE OFFENCE and agreed to be cautioned. however, a

formal caution is a VERY SERIOUS MATTER and it will stay on police records for

FIVE YEARS. if the boy commits another offence, the fact that he has a formal caution on his record could mean he is MORE LIKELY TO END UP IN COURT. if he was found guilty he could get a HARSHER SENTENCE. getting a formal

caution does not mean he got away with it.

I’M A SMOKER but I really want to give up. I know I can do it, but I’ve heard that quitting means you put on weight. I’m a big girl as it is, and I really don’t want to get any bigger.

Mari, 16, Aberdare

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Dear MariPacking in cigarettes doesn’t mean you’ll automatically pile on the pounds. However, NICOTINE IS KNOWN TO DULL THE APPETITE. This means people giving up often find they’re tempted to reach for the fridge instead of a smoke. It’s then that the calories can start mounting. Eating like this is also a comfort thing - a way of replacing THE BUzz YOU GET FROM THE NICOTINE in tobacco - but the craving WILL pass. In the meantime, if you have to snack, make sure you’re stocked up on HEALTHY, LOW-FAT FOODS. Give up smoking this way and you’ll be doing your body a double favour - while the only pounds you’ll gain are those that fill your pocket! For more help call SMOKERS HELPLINE WALES 0800 1690169.

I was at a party with my mates when the neighbours called the POLICE because of the noise. When the police arrived at the house, they searched a few of us for drugs. This lad had some speed on him and they took him down the POLICE STATION. I’ve seen him around, but my mates told me he got CAUTIONED. Does that mean he’s got away with it?

Gareth, 14, Haverfordwest

My boyfriend SMOKES CANNABIS and he also likes to drink alcohol. But if he’s smoking and then starts drinking booze, he just ends up feeling DIzzY AND SICK.

Lisa, 15, Carmarthen

Dear LisaMixing any drug with alcohol can be VERY DANGEROUS. As your boyfriend has discovered, it can make people feel very ill. DRIVING after you’ve taken both cannabis and alcohol is particularly dangerous. Drinking alcohol on top of drugs like heroin or tranquillisers CAN EVEN KILL. It’s important that your boyfriend is made aware of the RISKS OF MIXING DRUGS AND ALCOHOL. Show him this booklet if he won’t listen

to you.

Dear Jo ‘Brown’ is actually aSMOKEABLE FORM OF HEROIN. It carries all the same risks as heroin - THE FACT THAT IT’S SMOKED doesn’t make it ‘safe’ or less addictive. Read about the effects of heroin use in the Drug Files at the end of this booklet and WARN YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT THE RISKS that they could be running.

SMOKING ‘BROWN’ IS BAD NEWSDON’T MIX DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

At the clubs I go to, a lot of people are smoking ‘BROWN’ to chill out. Some of my friends have told me that “brown” is just a stronger form of cannabis - is this true?

Jo, 16, Cardiff

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When it comes to DRUGS, are you clued up or clueless? Find out with this true or false quiz. All the answers are in the drug files (and at the foot of the page).

1. FALSE - Alcohol is a depressant drug. It slows down brain activity.2. TRUE3. TRUE4. FALSE - Mixing tranquillisers with alcohol is very dangerous.5. FALSE - Possession carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment and/or a fine.6. TRUE7. FALSE - A bad trip can happen to anyone, whether they’re taking LSD for the first time or not.It’s more likely if a user is feeling anxious, uncomfortable or nervous.8. TRUE9. TRUE10. TRUE

TRUE FALSE

1. Alcohol is a stimulant drug.

2. Snorting cocaine can permanently damage the inside of the nose.

3. Using heroin for the first time can cause vomiting.

4. If you’re on tranquillisers, alcohol doesn’t have any effect.

5. The maximum penalty for possession of speed is

two years’ imprisonment.

6. The ‘head rush’ felt by users when they breathe in

poppers is caused by a surge of blood through the heart and brain.

7. A bad trip on LSD (acid) is more likely to happen to first time users.

8. The high from smoking crack lasts for about ten minutes.

9. The effects of ketamine can leave users unable to move for hours.

10. Many drugs sold on the ‘street’ have been mixed with

other substances, so users can never be sure what they’re getting.

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11

The answers

heroin scag H smack gear junk

as i see it, dealers are big time gangsters or those people outside clubs trying to sell Es, trips and whizz. all i did was try to sort a few friends with ecstasy. Like i told the police, my mates asked me. i wasn’t going to push it on them. in fact i thought i was doing them a favour. i even said that none of the tabs were for me, but it didn’t make any difference.

it’s been a big shock for my parents - when they turned up at the station, my mum was white as a sheet. Dad wouldn’t even look at me. they’ve said they’ll stand by me, but i know they feel let down.

Name: Age: Lives in: Occupation:

Criminal charge: POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO SUPPLY

‘I STILL DON’T THINK OF MYSELF AS A

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Word’s already spreading through school. my teachers are bound to find out - and then what? What really hurts is that everyone’s talking about me behind my back. no one undestands how bad i feel. i wish i’d known about the risks i was taking. but it’s too late now. i’ve just got to face what’s coming.’

the police haven’t told me what’s going to happen yet. i could get a formal warning or a caution - which means a police record. i might even have to appear in court. the fact that ecstasy is a Class a drug isn’t going to help. apparently it’s the most serious drugs category of all, and can carry the heaviest penalties. also a lot depends on the amount of drugs the police find. i was only carrying a few Es, and i was on my own when they stopped me. still, the police were convinced that they weren’t just for my own personal use.

Recently this girl was caught by the police with some ecstasy tabs in her pocket. This is her story…

DRUG DEALER.

AWAITING PUNISHMENTTHE FUTURE

SO DISAPPOINTED

sortedBethan

16Aberystwyth Student

police may spend more time looking for professional dealers, but they still treat cases like bethan’s very seriously. possession with intent to supply is a major offence.

12

if you had any intention of dealing (which can include giving and sharing drugs), you may be charged with this more serious offence. Decisions over whether you’re charged with intent to supply are based on the circumstances in which you were caught and the quantity of drugs you were caught with. the police can take the same course of action as in simple possession cases, but this time you’re more likely to be charged. if your case goes to court, the penalties are likely to be heavier.

obtaining a visa to travel to some countries may become difficult or could even be denied. a drugs record could affect your job prospects. When applying for a job, an employer may check if you have a criminal record or any past convictions.

This means being caught with an illegal drug for your own use. The police can tell your parent(s) or carer. They could also inform the Social Services and the Probation Service. As for punishment, the police have these options:

a formal warning (which is put on local police files - if you offend again this may influence the police to charge you, rather than caution you)

a formal caution (a central police record held for five years - if you offend again, this can be used against you)

to charge you with an offence leading to a youth Court hearing (this is more likely for repeat offenders, who may end up with a fine or a custodial sentence).

if the police have reason to suspect that you are carrying an illegal drug, THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE YOU

TURN OUT YOUR POCKETS. they can also take you to the police station and search you. if drugs are found,

you could be charged with one of tWo offences:

THE LAW U N L O C K E D

POSSESSION

IF YOU HAVE A DRUGS RECORD:

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POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO SUPPLY DRUGS

Some other drugs are controlled by the Medicines Act. As for alcohol, gases, glues and aerosols, poppers and tobacco, the law handles each of these differently.

Cocaine, crack, ecstasy, heroin, LsD (acid), magic mushrooms, speed (amphetamines) if prepared for injection. methylamphetime (methamphetamine/Crystal meth)

MAXIMUM PENALITIES: possession 7 years’ prison and/or a fine supply life imprisonment and/or a fine

CLASS A

IGNORANCE WON’T WASH WITH THETHE MISUSE OF DRUGS ACT 1971 divides drugs into three classes and sets maximum sentencing PENALTIES:

CLASS BCLASS C

speed (amphetamines), methylphenidate (ritatin) pholcodine, Cannabis

MAXIMUM PENALITIES: possession 5 years’ prison and/or a fine supply 14 years’ prison and/or a fine

anabolic steroids, tranquillisers (including temazepam (mazzies)), gamma hydrox-ybutyrate (gbh), Ketamine

MAXIMUM PENALITIES: possession 2 years’ prison and/or a fine supply 14 years’ prison and/or a fine

LAW14

ALCOPOPS OFTEN CONTAIN MORE ALCOHOL THAN MANY BEERS, LAGER OR CIDER.

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THE FACTS

(illegal to sell to under-18s)Alcohol is found in drinks like beer, lager, alcopops, cider, wine and spirits.

It is illegal to sell alcohol to under 18s. Young people aged 16 or 17 can however drink beer, wine or cider with a meal if it is bought by an adult and they are accompanied by an adult. It is illegal for this age group to drink spirits in pubs, even with a meal.

Police have a range of powers to tackle underage drinking ranging from powers to confiscate alcohol from under-18s who drink in public, tackling those that drink irresponsibly and as well as tackling those that persistently sell or supply under 18s with alcohol.

Alcohol comes in different strengths and measured as a % by volume. The higher the % the stronger the drink will be. The stronger the strength the more units will be contained in a drink. For men, it is recommended that they drink no more than 3 to 4 units of alcohol a day and no more than 21 units over the course of the week. For women, it is recommended that they drink no more than 2 to 3 units of alcohol a day and no more than 14 units over the course of the week. Individuals should not save up their daily units through the week and binge on the weekend.”

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THE RISKSAlcohol is a depressant drug. Users can end up feeling VERY DOWN.Women get more drunk than men on the same amount of alcohol. They can also develop drink-related health problems earlier.Overdose (drinking far too much) can lead to loss of consciousness. USERS THEN RISK

CHOKING ON THEIR OWN VOMIT. THIS CAN KILL.

OvErdOSE CAN ALSO CAuSE ALCOHOLIC pOISONINg, wHICH CAN BE FATAL.

Long-term over-use can lead to serious liver, heart and stomach problems.The number of alcohol related deaths in the UK has more than doubled from 4,144 in 1991 to

8,724 in 2007.

THE EFFECTSMany people enjoy drinking alcohol. In small amounts it can help them to relax and feel more sociable.

SOME PEOPLE USE ALCOHOL TO ESCAPE FROM THEIR PROBLEMS.

The effect depends on the strength of the drink and how fast it is consumed.It also varies according to when a person last ate, and their weight, mood and surroundings. Speech can become slurred, co-ordination affected and emotions heightened. A hangover (the after-effects of alcohol) can leave you feeling ill for a day or so.

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Anabolic steroids can only be supplied lawfully by a pharmacist to someone with a doctor's prescription, unlawful supply is against the law and Class C penalties apply.

Anabolic steroids are synthetic equivalents of the male hormone, testosterone. They are used in medicine to treat persistent anaemia and muscle weakness after surgery.

Don’t confuse them with the type of steroids used to treat eczema/asthma*. Some body-builders use anabolic steroids, as well as people who

think it’ll improve their body image. Some can be swallowed but most need an

(Supply is against the law)

THE FACTS

ANABOLIC STEROIDS

THE EFFECTSUsers claim steroids make them

feel more AGGRESSIVE and able to train harder.

With intensive exercise, anabolic steroids can help build up muscle. However, there is some debate about whether they improve muscle power and athletic

performance.

Use in regulated sports is prohibited. A positive test for the drug can ruin a sporting career.

intramuscular injection.

Taking anabolic steroids carries many health risks and can stop young people from growing properly.

THE PHYSICAL RISKS FOR MEN INCLUDE: erection problems, breast growth (Bitch tits), shrinking testicles, reduced sperm and even sterility, acne, increased chance of heart attack and liver damage.

THE PHYSICAL RISKS FOR WOMEN INCLUDE: growth of facial hair, deepening of the voice, shrinking breasts and disturbed menstrual cycle.

It is very risky for a pregnant woman to take steroids, as the unborn baby could be seriously affected.

THE RISKS

Steroid use can produce temporary mental health

problems including aggression, mood swings, sleep disorder and

paranoia. Sharing needles or syringes puts users at risk of dangerous infections like hepatitis and HIV.

* Some countries treat asthma using Clenbuterol, which is also used for its anabolic effects.

Trade names include:

Sustanon 250, Deca-Durabolin, Dianabol, Anavar and Stanozolol. May be referred to by users as ...

‘roids

18

CANNABIS

Getting ‘stoned’ on cannabis makes most users relaxed and talkative. It heightens the senses, especially when it comes to colours, taste and music.prolonged use can leave people feeling tired and lacking energy.Cooking and eating hash makes the effects more intense and harder to control.Hash may bring on cravings for food, especially sweet things.

Cannabis use can affect the ability to concentrate and cause short-term memory loss. Getting stoned affects co-ordination, increasing the risk of accidents.It impairs driving skills, so never get in a car with someone who is stoned. Combining cannabis and alcohol substantially increases the chances of being involved in a road accident.Cannabis can make users paranoid and anxious, depending on their mood and situation.

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Cannabis is a natural substance from a plant commonly called ‘hemp’.It comes in a solid, dark lump known as ‘resin’ or as leaves, stalks and seeds called ‘grass’ or as a sticky oil. It can be rolled with tobacco in a spliff or joint, smoked on its own in a special pipe, or eaten.There are different types of cannabis - some (e.g. skunk) are very strong.

Cannabis (including cannabis oil) is a Class B drug

Smoking cannabis over a long period of time may increase the risk of respiratory disorders, including lung cancer.

MANY HEAVY REGULAR USERS FIND CANNABIS HARD TO GIVE UP.

Known as marijuana, draw, blow, weed, puff, shit, hash, ganja.

19

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant. The buzz creates a sense of well-being, making users feel alert, confident and exhilarated. The effects last about 30 minutes. Users

are often left CRAVING more. People may also take more to delay the comedown (tiredness and DEPRESSION).

COCAINECocaine is a white powder which is usually SNORTED but is sometimes

injected.

Users may find their habit

expensive and HARD TO CONTROL. Cocaine use increases the heart rate and can cause chest pain and heart problems. Large or frequent doses over a short period can leave users agitated, anxious, confused and PARANOID. Continued use may lead to a state of mind similar to paranoid psychosis. SNORTING COCAINE may permanently damage the membranes inside the nose.

(Class A)

coke, charlie,

snow, C.

THE FACTS

It is a Class A drug.

Known as

THE EFFECTS

THE RISKS

20

Smoking crack can seriously harm the lungs and cause chest pains.

Heavy use can lead to potentially

fatal heart problems.

Heavy users risk convulsions.

Regular users may find their habit

very expensive.

Users have died from

Crack is a smokeable form of cocaine.

The effects of smoking crack are similar to snorting cocaine but much more intense.The effects are very short-lived, lasting as little as ten minutes.Users often ‘chase’ the high by repeating the dose, which can rapidly lead to DEPENDENCE.Heavy users may take heroin to dull the craving caused by the use of crack.

THE FACTS

IT IS A CLASS A DRUG.

THE EFFECTS

Known as rock, wash, stone.

THE RISKS

After the high, feelings of restlessness, nausea and sleeplessness are common.Large or frequent doses over a short period can leave users confused, depressed and paranoid.

overdose

Crack cocaine ‘rocks’

21

Crack is highly ADDICTIVE.

Because the high can be so intense, crack use is often

difficult to control

(Class A)

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ECSTASY AFFECTS THE BODY’S TEMPERATURE CONTROL. Dancing for long periods in a hot atmosphere increases the chances of users overheating and dehydrating (losing too much body fluid). The risks can be reduced if users:

1. Chill out regularly. 2. Sip about a pint of non-alcoholic fluid such as fruit juice, isotonic sports drinks or water every hour.

24

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(Class A)THE FACTS

THE EFFECTS

Ecstasy usually comes in tablets of different shapes, size and colour (but often white).a tablet might not contain mDma. other drugs which might be sold as mDma can have very different effects.

As ecstasy starts working (known as ‘coming up’) users may feel a tightening of the jaw, nausea, sweating and an increase in heart rate.

There have been about sixty ecstasy-related deaths in the UK.

CHILLTHE RISKS

THE COMEDOWN CAN LEAVE USERS FEELING TIRED AND DEPRESSED, OFTEN FOR DAYS.Use has been linked to liver and kidney problems. Studies into the effects of ecstasy are still at an early stage. However, research shows that MDMA dramatically affects the brain chemistry of animals.

22

Ecstasy is a Class A drug.

The effects of MDMA are unpredictable.Users can feel alert and in tune with their surroundings and with other people too.Sound, colour and emotions can seem much more INTENSE.The energy buzz from ecstasy means users may dance for hours.The effects last anything from three to six hours.

GHB comes as a colourless liquid and is sold in small bottles or capsules.

THE LIQUID IS MEASURED OUT IN CAPFULS AND THEN SWALLOWED.

THE FACTS

It was originally developed as an anaesthetic for use during surgery.GHB is a Class C drug - illegal to have, give away or sell. Class C penalties apply - possession can get you up to two years in jail and/or an unlimited fine. Supply can get you up to 14 years in jail and/or an unlimited fine.

GHB has no smell but a salty taste.

THE RISKSExcessive doses can lead to

SICKNESS, STIFF MUSCLES, FITS AND EVEN COLLAPSE.

GHB is also known as

GHB has sedative properties and can produce feelings of euphoria.

THE EFFECTS

The effects have been known to last for a day.

THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF

GHB ARE NOT YET

FULLY KNOWN.

It is VERY DANGEROUS and can be fatal when mixed with alcohol or other drugs.

GHB CAN BADLY BURN THE MOUTHIf incorrectly produced,

gH

B (S

OM

ET

IME

S K

NO

wN

AS

gB

H) IS

S

HO

rT

FOr

gA

MM

AH

yd

rO

Xy

Bu

Ty

rAT

E.

CHILL

23

GAMMA OH

24

EXCESSIVE amounts can

result in overdose, coma,

and in some cases DEATH.First-time use often leads to

SIDE-EFFECTS like dizziness and

HEROIN IS VERY ADDICTIVE. Getting the next fix can DOMINATE a user’s life.Tolerance develops, which means the user needs more heroin to get the same effect.Users who form a habit may end up taking the drug just to feel normal. If heroin is taken with alcohol or other drugs, overdose is much more likely.Smoking heroin does not make the drug ‘safe’ or less addictive. Those who start by smoking or snorting heroin sometimes switch to injection to maximise the high.Injecting can damage veins and leads to gangrene.

Sharing needles or syringes puts users at risk of dangerous infections like hepatitis and HIV.

(Class A)

In small doses, heroin gives users a sense of

warmth and

well-being. Higher doses can make them

drowsy and relaxed.

HEROINTHE FACTS

THE RISKS

THE EFFECTS

vomiting.WITHDRAWING from heroin can be very

hard. Many people manage to kick the drug, but mentally it may

take YEARS to be free.

Known as brown, gear, H, horse, junk, skag, smack.

HEROIN IS A CLASS

A DRUG.

Heroin is a painkilling drug made from morphine which is derived from the opium poppy.It comes as a white powder when pure. Street heroin is usually off-white or light brown. It is snorted, smoked or injected.

Know

n as K, special K

, vitamin K

amp

ule o

f ketamin

e

25

kKetamine has painkilling effects but also alters perception.Ketamine makes users feel detached from themselves and others around them. This creates ‘out of body’ and hallucinatory experiences, followed by numbness and strange muscle movements and possibly nausea and vomiting. During this time, a user may be physically unable to move.

LIKE LSD, THE EFFECTS OF KETAMINE ARE INFLUENCED BY THE USER’S MOOD AND ENVIRONMENT.

THE EFFECTS

Ketamine is a powerful drug which has been used for operations on humans and animals.

anaesthetic

kETAMINE(Class C)

SpecialAs ketamine numbs the body, users risk serious injury without feeling pain. The effects can be very

disorientating and this will probably be worse if the

user is already anxious or depressed.Excessive doses carry some risk of breathing problems and

heart failure. Ketamine is particularly dangerous when mixed with depressant drugs such as alcohol, barbiturates, tranquillisers and heroin.

THE RISKS

The long-term effects of recreational use of ketamine are still not really known.

Ketamine comes as tablets

or as powder snorted up the nose. Ketamine is a prescription-only medicine.

Ketamine is a Class C drug - illegal to have, give away or sell. Class C penalties apply - possession can get you up to two years in jail and/or an unlimited fine. Supply can get you up to 14 years in jail and/or an unlimited fine.

THE FACTS

26

A bad trip can be terrifying. Users may feel very threatened and can forget that the drug is responsible.It’s impossible to predict a ‘bad’ trip, but it’s more likely to happen if the user is feeling anxious, nervous or uncomfortable.

Feeling paranoid or out of control can leave users shaken for a long time afterwards.

(acid)

It has a powerful effect on the mind.The effects of LSD are known as a ‘trip’ and can last as long as eight to twelve hours. The effects can vary depending on the user’s mood, where they are and who they’re with.Users report visual effects such as intensified colours, distorted shapes and movement in stationary objects. Changes in the sense of time and place are also common.

THE EFFECTS

LSD is a hallucinogenic drug

THE RISKS

LSD can complicate mental problems, for example by triggering a psychotic reaction.

Accidents may happen while users are hallucinating.Users may experience flashbacks, where parts of a trip are briefly re-lived some time after the event.

[Class A]

Once the trip starts, there’s way of stopping it.NOUSERS EXPERIENCE TRIPS DIFFERENTLY

EVERY TIME.

LSD is a Class A drug.

The strength and effect

of the drug varies greatly.

THE FACTSLSD usually comes in tiny squares of paper, often with a picture on one side. It also comes in ‘microdot’ tablets.

Known as acid, blotters, dots, microdots, tabs, trips (chemical name: Lysergic acid diethylamide)

Magic mushrooms are

eaten raw, dried, cooked in food or stewed

into a tea.

It is illegal to possess raw magic mushrooms, it is also an offence to possess any preparation of them (e.g. when they’re dried or stewed).

Several types of mushroom can produce hallucinations when eaten. The most common is the Liberty

Cap which contains psilocybin.There are also species that look similar to magic mushrooms but which are poisonous.

The greatest risk is in eating the wrong type of mushroom and being poisoned. If users feel sick, they should go straight to hospital with a sample of the

mushroom and explain what’s happened.

Magic mushrooms have a similar effect to LSD, but the trip is often milder and shorter.Magic mushrooms can make users feel very relaxed and ‘spaced-out’. The effects depend on the user’s mood, where they are and who they’re with.

Magic mushrooms[Class A]

THE FACTS

THE RISKS

Bad trips can happen and can be very frightening.

ONCE THE TRIP HAS STARTED, THERE’S NO GOING BACK.

Magic mushrooms may cause stomach pains, sickness and

Like any hallucinogen, magic mushrooms can complicate mental problems.Magic mushrooms can be confused with some poisonous and even deadly species.

diarrhoea.

Magic mushrooms may cause hallucinations -

objects, colour and sound become distorted.

MAGIC MUSHROOMS ARE CLASS A DRUGS.

27

THE EFFECTS

Kn

ow

n a

s ‘shro

om

s, mu

shie

s, ma

jies

rushex

hila

rati

on!

28

The drug can cause a rapid heart rate and a rise in blood pressure. The higher the dose, the greater these effects.There is some evidence of long-term brain changes that may gradually improve after sustained abstinence. In cases of overdose - stroke, and lung, kidney and gastrointestinal damage can develop, and coma and death can occur. Can be associated with injecting and with sharing of paraphernalia with attendant risks of HIV and hepatitis virus infections. May increase libido and risky sexual behaviour thereby increasing further the risk of blood borne virus transmission in some.

THE RISKS

Crystal Meth

Methylamphetamine (commonly referred to as methamphetamine) is one of a group of stimulant drugs called amphetamines that act on the brain and nervous system. Like cocaine and amphetamines, methylamphetamine has stimulant properties but is much longer acting. The crystalline form - sometimes called ‘Ice’ - like ‘crack cocaine’ can be easily smoked and can rapidly lead to high blood levels.

RUSH

THE EFFECTS

It can bring on a feeling of exhilaration and produces increased arousal and activity levels.

People feel more awake and it suppresses appetite.

Smoking the purer crystalline form (also known as ‘crystal meth’ or ‘ice’) produces a very intense ‘rush’ similar to that produced by crack cocaine but longer-lasting - between 4 and 12 hours.

[Class A]

aw

ake!

Trade names include: Ice, glass, Tina, C

hristine, yaba

29POPPERS (alkyl nitrites) [Restricted supply]

Can make some people

feel faint and sick, especially when taken while dancing.

Users often experience a headache afterwards.

Regular use causes skin problems around the

mouth and nose.Because the drug reduces blood

pressure, taking alkyl nitrites is very dangerous for people with anaemia, glaucoma and breathing or heart problems.Poppers may be fatal if swallowed.

THE RISKS

Poppers is a term used for the group of chemicals known as alkyl nitrites.

Alkyl nitrites include: amyl nitrite, butyl nitrite and isobutyl nitrite.

HEAD rush

Trade names include: r

am, K

ix, TNT, Liquid g

old.

THE EFFECTS

Poppers come as a clear or straw-coloured liquid in a small bottle or tube.The vapour is breathed in through the mouth or nose.Over recent years, use of poppers has become more common in dance culture.Amyl Nitrite is very rarely used in medicines these days but when in a medicinal product it is controlled under the medicines legislation. Possession is not illegal but supply can be an offence. There have been cases where the Medicines Act was used to fine shops for selling them, but they are still sold as ‘Room Aromas’ or Deodorisers in sex shops and some clubs.

Users get a very brief but intense ‘HEAd-ruSH’. This is caused by a sudden surge of blood through the heart and brain. Blood vessels dilate (enlarge), resulting in a flushed face and neck. Some users say they experience the impression of T IME S L O W I N G D O W N . The effects last two to five minutes after use.

THE FACTS

Abusing gases, glues or aerosols can lead to nausea,

vomiting, black-outs and fatal heart problems.

Accidents can happen when the user is high because their senses are affected.There is risk of suffocation if the substance is inhaled from a plastic bag over the head.

The greatest danger with Volatile Substance Abuse is that death can occur the first time a person

‘sniffs’. Squirting the stuff down the throat may cause the body to produce fluid that floods the lungs.

THIS CAN BE FATAL.

volatile Substances - Solvents

(Illegal to sell to under-18s when abuse is suspected)

Volatile Substances are sniffed or breathed into the lungs.It is illegal for shopkeepers to sell to under-18s, or to people acting for them, if they suspect the product is intended for abuse.

Users feel thick-headed, dizzy, giggly and dreamy. They may also

hallucinate (see or hear

things which aren’t real).

The effects disappear after fifteen

to forty-five minutes.

Afterwards, users feel drowsy and

may suffer a ‘hangover’ effect.

THE FACTS

THE EFFECTS

THE RISKS

Sniffing gases, glues or aerosols KILLS one person every week, in the UK.

These substances are found in:lighter gas refills and fuel canisters,aerosols containing products such as hairspray, deodorants and air fresheners,tins or tubes of glue, some paints, thinners and correcting fluids.

Heavy regular use can damage the brain, liver and kidneys.Heavy regular use can damage the brain, liver and kidneys.

30

31

It quickens the heart beat and breathing rate and intensifies emotions.

The comedown (tiredness and depression) lasts for one or two days and sometimes longer. Sleep, memory and concentration are all affected in the short-term.High doses repeated over a few days may cause panic, hyperactivity and paranoia.

REGULAR HEAVY USE OFTEN LEADS TO LACK OF APPETITE AND SLEEP AND LOWERS RESISTANCE TO DISEASE.Long-term users may become dependent on the buzz speed gives them. Tolerance can develop, which means the user needs more to get the same effect.

Long-term use puts a strain on the heart.

OVERDOSE CAN BE FATAL.Use of speed can lead to mental illness such as

Speed

Injecting amphetamine is particularly dangerous because the strength and purity

of the street powder is unknown.

KNOwN AS

Amphetamines are synthetic stimulants. They usually come in a grey or white powder, or sometimes in tablet form.

Speed can be snorted, swallowed, smoked, injected or dissolved in a drink.

Speed is the most impure illegal drug in the UK - the purity of street powders is less than 10 per cent.Amphetamines are Class B drugs (but carry Class A penalties if prepared for injection).

THE EFFECTS

THE FACTS

AMPHETAMINESCLASS B

psychosis.

SPEED IS A STIMULANT

Users may feel confident and energetic.

Some people also become tense and irritable

and experience mood swings and depression.

Speed suppresses the appetite, but doesn’t

satisfy the body’s need for nourishment.

THE RISKS

speed

whizz

uppers

amph

billy

sulphate

TOBACCO THE FACTS Tobacco is the dried leaf of the tobacco plant which is usually sold in the form of cigarettes. Cigars are made from stronger, darker tobacco which can also be smoked in a pipe.

Tobacco contains a drug called nicotine which is very addictive.

But this isn’t easy - most people who smoke become dependent and feel restless and anxious if

they try to stop. Smoking is expensive. Ten cigarettes a day will cost upwards of £500 a year.

Regular long-term smoking greatly increases the risk of a number of serious diseases including lung and other cancers, heart disease, bronchitis, bad circulation and ulcers.

MOST SMOKERS WISH THEY’D NEVER STARTED.

THE RISKS

Nicotine

is a powerful and fast-acting

stimulant drug which is used to relieve stress and anxiety. When smoke is inhaled, the effects of nicotine hit the brain about eight seconds later. Nicotine

speeds up the heart rate and increases blood pressure.

First-time users may

feel sick

and dizzy.

People who quit smoking notice a real improvement in

their health. For friendly, practical help and advice on

stopping smoking ring Smokers Helpline Wales free on 0800 169 0169

It is estimated that Smoking causes around 6,000 premature deaths in Wales each year.

It is illegal for shopkeepers to sell tobacco products

to under-18s.

32

THE EFFECTS

[Illegal to sell to under-18s]

Breathing in other people’s smoke

(second-hand smoking) can cause

breathing difficulties,

asthma and even cancer.

33

Known as benzos, tranx. Temazepam (mazzies) is known as

green eggs, jellies, tems or yellow eggs. Trade names

include Ativan, Mogadon (moggies) and Valium.

Tranquillisers are prescribed by GPs as short-term treatment for depression, stress and sleep problems.They are misused by some people to counter the effects of stimulant

drugs, or taken in combination with alcohol or heroin.

In small doses, tranquillisers relieve tension and anxiety.

Higher doses can make users drowsy and forgetful.

THE FACTS

THE EFFECTSTHE RISKS

Tranquilisers (such as rohypnol) are a Class C drug - illegal to have (unless they have been prescribed for you by a doctor), give away or sell. possession without a prescription can get you up to two years in jail and/or an unlimited fine. Supply can get you up to 14 years in jail and/or an unlimited fine.

Tranquillisers can be supplied lawfully only by a pharmacist to someone with a doctor’s prescription.

Injecting crushed tablets or the contents of capsules is VERY DANGEROUS and can be lethal.

Class C

Tranquillisers slow down reactions, making accidents more likely.They are very dangerous if mixed with alcohol because of the risk of a fatal overdose.Tolerance can develop. Users can become dependent, especially if they rely on the drug to calm them or help them to sleep.Users trying to quit may suffer panic attacks. Sudden withdrawal from very high doses can be dangerous and result in confusion and serious convulsions.

Help is always out there - it’s just a question of asking…

0800 6 33 55 88DAN 24/7 is a national, confidential service providing 24 hour advice to drugs and alcohol users and anyone wanting information on substance misuse.

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Local information

34

ISBN 0 7504 5209 0 © Crown copyright February 2010CMK-22-10-120E1040910