What is cocaine, ecstasy and other drugs?

Cocaine and ecstasy are two commonly used illegal drugs. These drugs are damaging to your health and severely impact both physical and mental health. Risks of using drugs include:

  • Overdosing and becoming extremely sick or dying
  • Having a serious accident or injury while under the influence
  • Getting an infection through sharing needles if using drugs intravenously

People may start using illegal drugs for fun and later become dependent. Drug dependency is a serious condition that can harm the drug user, their families and communities. If you or someone you know is affected by drugs, there are services to help. Your GP can give you information about managing drug problems and help you create a suitable, long-term treatment plan.