For many years, people have used slang terms to refer to illegal drugs. Over time, common slang terms for drugs have changed.
People who use drugs typically like to stay up-to-date on the latest slang terms. Drug abusers need to know how to ask for the substances they want and how to identify the drugs they take.
Since drug addicts may use slang terms, knowing popular drug slang can help you identify a loved one’s drug use. This article will explore how drug slang has changed over time. You will learn:
- Why people use slang terms for drugs
- How drug slang has evolved over time
- Modern slang for common drugs
- How to determine if you or a loved one needs addiction treatment
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love shows signs of drug addiction, seek treatment. Find compassionate, effective treatment at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Drug Slang?
Drug slang simply means other words people use to identify illicit drugs. Slang can be words that sound like the original word or describe specific characteristics of the drug, such as color or side effects. Or, slang can simply be another word unrelated to the drug but recognizable to users.
There are several reasons someone may use drug slang. People who use or sell drugs may use slang to be discreet. Instead of talking about a drug, they may use alternative slang terms so others don’t become suspicious. Slang terms can also help drug users determine who is part of the drug-using community.
How Has Drug Slang Changed Over the Years?
People have been using slang terms for drugs for many years. Like other slang, drug slang terms evolve over time. There are several reasons this happens, including:
- Cultural changes
- Changes in how people use drugs
- Increased public awareness
One example of changing drug slang terms is the word “dope.” In the 1960s, people typically used this term to describe cannabis.
Over time, marijuana use became more widely accepted. States began decriminalizing or legalizing cannabis. Today, people use the term “dope” to refer to heroin or other drugs, and slang terms for marijuana are declining.
Common Modern Slang Terms for Drugs
Using slang terms for drugs may be a sign of illicit drug abuse. Knowing modern slang terms for drugs may help you identify drug abuse.
Here is an overview of modern drug slang terms.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are prescription stimulants. People may abuse amphetamines and become addicted to them. Common slang for amphetamines include:
- Speed
- French blues
- Horse heads
- Beans
- Chunk
- Sweeties
- Cartwheels
- Zoomers
- Pixies
- Jelly babies
Cocaine
Cocaine is an illicit stimulant drug. Common slang for cocaine includes:
- Coke
- Blow
- Dust
- Nose candy
- Florida snow
Heroin
Heroin is a highly addictive illegal opiate drug. Common slang terms for heroin include:
- H
- Antifreeze
- Smack
- Dope
- Tootsie roll
- Black olives
- Black tar
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic prescription opioid. It is very potent and can be lethal in small doses. Common slang terms for fentanyl include:
- Fenty
- White
- China
- Apache
- Jacket
- Butter
LSD
LSD is a hallucinogenic drug with psychedelic effects. Some modern slang terms for LSD include:
- Purple haze
- Coffee
- Dots
- Lucy in the sky with diamonds
- Sunshine
- Acid
- White dust
Marijuana
Marijuana is a plant people can smoke or eat. People may also consume products infused with marijuana’s psychoactive compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Common slang terms for marijuana include:
- Weed
- Mary Jane
- Broccoli
- Hash
- Leaf
MDMA
MDMA is a synthetic drug that can cause mood-altering and sensory effects. Common slang terms for MDMA include:
- Ecstasy
- Love potion
- E
- Molly
- Love drug
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is a potent stimulant drug. People may call it:
- Meth
- Crank
- Zip
- Bump
- Fizz
- Chalk
Xanax
Xanax is a commonly prescribed drug used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. Common slang terms for Xanax include:
- Zannies
- Z-bars
- Bars
- Xanies
Using slang terms for drugs may be a sign someone needs help to overcome substance abuse or addiction. Other signs include:
- Increased isolation
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Significant changes in a person’s behaviors, appearance, appetite, or sleep patterns
Overcoming substance abuse and addiction can be challenging, but treatment and ongoing support can help. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of drug abuse.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, you are not alone. Find comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and support at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment. Take the first step of your recovery journey by reaching out today.
