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Illegal drugs are those that are not prescribed by a doctor or bought at a drugstore. They are sometimes called "street drugs." Some examples include heroin (also called smack, junk, or dope), cocaine (coke or crack), PCP, ecstasy (MDMA), Rohypnol (roofies), and meth (crank or speed).

The effects of illegal drugs can be hard to predict because:

  • People respond differently to the same drugs.
  • The strength or potency of the drug may be uncertain.
  • They may contain unknown substances or dangerous chemicals, such as fentanyl. There is no quality control for street drugs like that required for prescription drugs.
  • They may interact with other drugs or alcohol in harmful or unpredictable ways.

Current as of: August 20, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: August 20, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.