This booklet outlines the actions and effects of various current drugs of abuse to place their hazard potential in proper perspective. Also discussed are shifts in current substance use and availability and review of what those changes mean. Also clarified are the concepts and terms used in discussing the drug problem. The premise of this informative booklet is that any drug, including aspirin, tobacco, antacids, or alcohol carry a risk to the individual and society when used improperly, or in the case of tobacco, when used at all. Sections provide detailed information on over-the-counter drugs (alcohol, tobacco, and inhalants); prescription drugs (depressants and narcotics); street drugs (stimulants and cocaine, marijuana, hallucinogens, and PCP); how to measure the hazards for a drug's greater potential for abuse and the higher risks of physical or psychological dependence in users; and how to provide drug users alternatives to drug use, such as: training in perceptual awareness, communications skills, interpersonal effectiveness, problem-solving, decisionmaking, stress management, and personal growth.