Drugs and Alcohol

What is alcohol? Alcohol is a legal drug in Australia for people over the age of 18. However, alcohol use can cause problems. Accident, injury, liver disease, heart disease and cancer are just some of many risks linked with drinking too much. You should drink no more than two standard...

What is cannabis? Cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug in Australia. It is used in three main forms: marijuana, hashish and hash oil. Cannabis contains the active ingredient delta-9 TetraHydroCannabinol. Cannabis can change your perception and mood. Using cannabis on the odd occasion is linked with little harm....

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...

What is medicinal cannabis? Medicinal cannabis comes from the cannabis plant (also called marijuana). Most medicinal cannabis contains cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). You take medicinal cannabis by mouth (orally). These medicines can be in the form of oils, pills or dried flower products. Medicinal cannabis can be used to...

What is methamphetamine? Methamphetamine is an illegal stimulant which is often called ‘crystal meth’ or ‘ice’. Methamphetamine gives you a short ‘high’ followed by an intense ‘low’ and can be very addictive. People who use ice for a long time are at risk of serious health problems. Ice can also...

Needle and syringe services in South Western Sydney Find your closest Needle and Syringe Program outlet below.

What is it? Opioid dependence treatment is treatment for people who are dependent on opioids. Opioids are pain-relieving medications. There are legal and illegal types of opioids. Legal opioids can be bought over the counter or with a prescription. One of the most common illegal opioids is the drug heroin....

What is an opioid? There are many types of opioids, including prescription opioids such as morphine and illegal opioids such as heroin. Opioids are meant to assist with pain relief. People who use opioids for a long time might find it hard to stop and can become dependent. They can...

What is poisoning and drug overdose? Drug overdoses and poisonings are common reasons people are taken to hospital. An overdose happens when someone takes too much of a drug, poison, or a mix of these. This can cause harmful, toxic effects on the body. Symptoms may appear quickly, but sometimes...

How can I inject drugs safely? People who inject drugs can place themselves at risk of HIV, hepatitis C and other blood borne viruses. Safe injecting practices can protect against infection. You should practice the following: Use a sterile needle and syringe (fit) for every injection. If you are unable...

What is vaping? A vape is a small device also known as an electronic cigarette. They are not safe, and use can lead to serious health problems. Using a vape is called vaping. Vapes are harmful to your health at any age. They impact your physical and mental health. Vaping...