What effects do peaple want to achieve when they abuse these drugs?

Using drugs carries a range of physical and mental health risks, and the only way to eliminate these is not to use any drugs at all. However, this may not be realistic when the decision to use or not to use a particular drug is a matter of personal choice, but it must be acknowledged that when choosing to use a drug, a person must accept the associated health risks.

All drugs will affect the user's judgment and probably reduce their inhibitions, increasing the likelihood that they may find themselves in situations they would normally avoid and which may be unsafe. Sexual situations may be more likely to occur when drugs are involved and it may be harder to remember the importance of practicing safer sex when using drugs, thus increasing the risks of unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (including HIV).

Different drugs carry different risks. You will find more information about the specific risks associated with each of the drugs listed