Most people are at some time confronted with drug use socially, professionally or within their own families. And one does not have to be a drug user to be profoundly affected by them on a personal level. Forbidden Drugs explains to the general reader the nature and effects of the various illicit drugs, including heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and hallucinogens, the impact they have on individuals and society, and the issues and controversies that surround them. It discusses the reasons why people decide to use these drugs, the natural history of drug use, the nature of addiction, and the treatments which are available for those with drug-related problems. Throughout the book, myths and hyperbole are critically dissected. Also, jargon is carefully avoided, but considerable detail is provided based upon the professional experience of the authors, and a survey of the scientific literature. Finally, there is a thorough evaluation of current UK policy on drugs with some proposals for limiting the damage caused to individuals and society, and for reducing problem drug use in the future. This perceptive book acknowledges that the interest in drugs and their effects extends beyond those who actually use them. Parents, teachers, health professionals, politicians and health economists, students and others are all aware of drug use going on around them. With the information presented in this book, readers will be able to react constructively and make informed decisions when confronted with drug use professionally or socially, or when asked for advice by friends or colleagues.

"Chapters on specific drugs are packed with the requisite detail on physical and psychological effects, but it's his fascinating snippets of historical trivia that one most remembers."--The Journal

"Highly readable, often entertaining, educational account of exactly what we know about recreational drugs; who uses them, how each class of drug works and the biological basis of addiction....The book's historical accounts of abused drugs make fascinating reading whatever your view on legalization...." --Nature

Philip Robson is Consultant Psychiatrist, Regional Consultant in Addictive Behaviour, and Clinical Lecturer in Psychiatry, University of Oxford

Introduction

1. Why Use Drugs?

2. The Consequences of Drug Use

3. Cannabis

4. The Stimulants

5. Psychedelics

6. The Inhalants

7. Ecstasy

8. Tranquillizers and Sleeping Pills

9. Heroin and the Opiates

10. The Nature of Addiction

11. Helping Problem Drug Users

12. Drug Policy - A Need for Change?

Selected bibliography and references