“Drug addiction” is a general term that refers to the compulsive need to seek and use substances despite harmful consequences. However, drugs vary in their addictive properties, and social trends can influence the popularity of certain drugs. Some commonly abused substances include: Marijuana has become one of the most widely used drugs in the United States. In 2019, around 3.5 million Americans tried marijuana for the first time. The prevalence of marijuana abuse has greatly increased over the past few years and has remained high among high school students. Meanwhile, disapproval of cannabis among teens has declined. Marijuana was not always considered to be addictive, but recent data indicates that this drug can cause symptoms of dependence and addiction, including cravings, insomnia, anxiety, depression and agitation. Cocaine / Crack Cocaine is a central nervous system stimulant. Its euphoric, energizing effects are not only seductive but also highly addictive. In 2019, nearly 671,000 Americans tried cocaine for the first time. Crack cocaine, a more potent form of the drug, is estimated to be between 75% and 100% more powerful than the powdered form. Crack is highly addictive and causes changes in brain chemistry that quickly lead to compulsive abuse and dependence. Methamphetamine. Known as “meth,” methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant that is illicitly taken by about 2 million Americans annually. The importation of meth from Mexican drug trafficking cartels has become increasingly common, contributing to the rise in addiction. Opioids encompass a group of potent pain-relieving substances ranging from oxycodone to heroin. They are often collectively called narcotics. Approximately 3.7% of Americans misused opioids in 2019, with most of them misusing prescription opioids. As central nervous system depressants, opioids slow down the brain’s activity, leading to overdose if too much is taken. Overdose deaths from opioids have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, posing a risk for opioid users. Hallucinogens are psychoactive drugs that affect the way someone experiences the world around them. Some common hallucinogenic drugs include ecstasy, LSD, PCP and mushrooms. The effects of hallucinogenic drugs can range from pleasant sensory distortions and feelings of empathy to terrifying hallucinations and violent impulses. Young people may be introduced to hallucinogenic drugs at clubs, raves, concerts or parties. Although hallucinogenic drugs are commonly believed to be non-addictive, ecstasy may permanently damage the body’s ability to produce the neurotransmitter serotonin. Other prescription drugs. Opioids are not the only prescription drug class that is prone to abuse. Other commonly abused prescription drugs include benzodiazepines (Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, Xanax), stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta), and prescription sleeping pills (Ambien, Lunesta).