Covers a wide range of substances – from medicines through to illicit drugs.

• Some medicines are illegal to possess without a prescription (such as sleeping tablets)
• Some medicines can be very dangerous if not taken as prescribed – especially if its not your medicine
• Having or selling illicit drugs can get people into serious trouble with the law
• Under the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971) illegal drugs fall into three classes A, B and C. Each class of drug carries different penalties for possession and supply.

Class A 

• Heroin, "E", LSD, Cocaine:
• Possession - 7 years prison and/or fine;
• Possession with intent to supply - Life imprisonment and/or a fine

Class B

• These include cannabis, mephedrone,NRG1 and amphetamine- such as speed and barbiturates
• Possession 5 years prison and/or fine;
• Possession with intent to supply - 14 years prison and/or a fine

Class C

• Drugs in this category include tranquillisers, valium and anabolic steroids.
• Possession - 2 years prison and/or fine;
• Possession with intent to supply - 14 years prison and/or a fine

There are 4 main types of drugs – each carries its own risks:

Stimulants: Amphetamine (Speed), Cocaine, Crack, Poppers
Sedatives: Alcohol, Valium, Sleeping Tablets, GHB
Painkillers: Heroin, Ketamine, Methadone, DFF 118, Codeine
Hallucinogens: LSD, Mushrooms, Cannabis
For more information use the Talk to Frank helpline: 0800 77 66 00
or the Frank website: http://www.talktofrank.com Leaflets about drugs, alcohol and solvents are available from Connexions offices.