A drug is any substance - solid, liquid or gas - that brings about physical and/or psychological changes in the body. Drugs can change the way a person thinks, feels or behaves. Some examples of illicit drugs are cannabis (marijuana), cocaine, crystal meth, ecstasy and heroin.
Misuse of prescription drugs such as percocet, oxycontin and codeine is on the rise. These drugs have a significant street value among users. Most often these drugs are obtained or stolen from a relative or friend who had a prescription from a doctor.
Drug use can affect all areas of a person’s life, causing problems with:
Drug use may affect a person's ability to respond appropriately to a given situation, think clearly and maintain attention. For more information on drugs and the health effects:
If you or your family/friends have concerns about drug misuse, look for Ontario treatment services in your area at Drug and Alcohol Registry of Treatment (DART) - Online Treatment Directory 1-800-565-8603. For information about the rate of drug and alcohol use of students in Ontario, see Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey 2009.
To find information about Harm Reduction (Needles and Crack Kits) and locations in Simcoe County and Muskoka District, click here.
