Alcohol & Other Drugs

Alcohol

• In Canada, alcohol is the most commonly used drug
• Alcohol slows down the parts of your brain that affect your thinking and behaviour, as well as your breathing and heart rate
• In Ontario, it is illegal for anyone under 19 years of age to possess, consume or purchase alcohol

Links: About Alcohol, Drinking Facts, Non-Alcohol beverages

Depressants

• Slows down the Central Nervous System which controls many body functions:
• Heart Rate
• Blood Pressure
• Breathing
• Body Temperature

Examples: Cannabis, Medical Marijuana

Stimulants

• Speeds up the Central Nervous System which controls many body functions:
• Heart Rate
• Blood Pressure
• Breathing
• Body Temperature

Examples: Ecstasy, Crack, Cocaine

Hallucinogens

• Causes you to hear, see and feel things that are not real
• May cause you to feel anxious, paranoid, and/or aggressive

Examples...Cannabis, LSD, Ecstasy, Mushrooms
* Some drugs may fall into more than one category

Prescription Drug Misuse

• These drugs can be dangerous if used incorrectly or taken without a prescription
• Can be addictive
• Take old or unused medications back to your pharmacist or take it to the Household Hazardous Waste Depot

Medication Safety

Examples: Opioids, OxyContin, Ritalin