The functioning

A substance is a drug when it affects the brain in such a way that psychological and physical effects occur. The effects can be stimulating, anaesthetizing or hallucinogenic.

Stimulants

With these substances, the user gets the feeling of having more energy and being more alert. Examples are such stimulants as cocaine and amphetamines (‘speed’) but also tobacco and coffee.

Anaesthetics

With these substances, the user enters into a sleepy stupor. As a result of the calming and relaxing effects, life’s sharp edges disappear. Examples of anaesthetics are heroine and other opiates but also alcohol and sedatives.

Hallucinogens

The user of these substances sees and experiences the world very differently. Examples of mind-altering substances are LSD, hash, weed, mushrooms and other hallucinogens.

The distinctions drawn on the basis of the effects of substances are not always sharp. Some substances can have a mixed effect. XTC, for example, is stimulating but also changes perceptions. Hash and weed — depending on the dosage and the situation — can have a mind-altering effect but also a numbing effect.