Drugs is a term commonly used to refer to narcotics and dangerous drugs/substances.
In Indonesia, another term introduced by the Ministry of Health is NAPZA, which stands for Narcotics, Psychotropics, and Addictive Substances.

Drugs are defined as all substances that can affect how the human mind, emotions, and will function.

Both terms—Drugs and NAPZA—refer to a group of substances that generally carry a high risk of addiction for users. According to health experts, drugs were originally psychotropic substances used for medical purposes, such as anesthesia during surgery or treatment for certain illnesses. However, this perception has been misused due to consumption beyond safe and prescribed limits.

Drug Distribution

Today, the spread of drugs is increasingly difficult to control. Almost everyone can easily obtain drugs from irresponsible individuals, such as drug dealers who deliberately target schools, nightclubs, prostitution areas, and gang gathering places.

This situation understandably causes concern among parents, community organizations, and the government, as drug abuse continues to spread widely. Although many anti-drug efforts have been carried out, preventing drug abuse among adolescents and adults remains a major challenge. Alarmingly, even elementary and junior high school students have become victims of drug abuse.

To date, the most effective prevention method for children is family-based education. Parents are expected to supervise and educate their children to stay away from drugs.

Based on data from the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Indonesia is no longer just a consumer country but has also become a producer of drugs. The number of drug users in Indonesia is estimated at 3.1–3.6 million people (BNN, 2008), accounting for about 2% of the population, with 80% of users aged between 12 and 24 years.

Types of Drugs Based on Their Effects on the Brain

1. Depressants (Suppress Brain Activity)

Types:
PAPI (Heroin/Putaw, Alcohol, Tranquilizers, Inhalants)

Harmful Effects:
Memory loss, pancreatic disorders, liver cirrhosis, high blood pressure, weakened heart function, fetal damage, lung damage, sperm damage, impotence, brain damage, and more.

2. Stimulants (Stimulate Brain Activity)

Types:
SEK (Methamphetamine/Shabu, Ecstasy, Cocaine)

Harmful Effects:
Heart attack, stroke, respiratory pressure, depression, paranoia, lung disorders, anxiety, insomnia, loss of sexual desire, drastic weight loss, and more.

3. Hallucinogens (Cause Hallucinations)

Types:
GML (Marijuana, Magic Mushrooms, LSD)

Harmful Effects:
Loss of motivation, impaired memory, concentration, and learning ability, decreased sexual desire, menstrual cycle disorders, reduced sperm production, increased cancer risk, and persistent mental health disorders.