Classification
Drugs may be classified in many different ways, according to mechanism of action, effects, or even legal status.

Analgesic (painkiller) drugs

Non-NSAID antipyretics
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen, or under one of its trade names Tylenol), which can cause liver problems due to chronic use
NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) which are non-sedating (unlike opiates), but can cause internal bleeding, among other problems
Aspirin or ASA (acetylsalicylic acid), which is also an antipyretic
Ibuprofen (also known under the trade names Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Nurofen and Brufen)
Opioids, powerful, addictive narcotic painkillers which are also used recreationally for their euphoric effects
Opiates refined from the opium poppy
Morphine
Codeine
Synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids
Heroin
Oxycodone (sold under the brand name Oxycontin, and contained in Percocet)
Vicodin
Demerol
Darvocet
Tramadol
Fentanyl

Recreational drugs usually used to alter mood or body function for recreation

Alcohol
Nicotine
Caffeine
Hallucinogens (including LSD, Magic mushrooms and Dissociative drugs)
Cannabis
MDMA
GHB
Heroin
Cocaine
Inhalants

Entheogenic drugs usually used to promote a mystical or shamanistic experience

Magic mushrooms
Peyote
Ayahuasca
Amanita muscaria
Salvia divinorum
Datura
LSD
Cannabis

Performance-enhancing drugs (for sport or combat).

Amphetamine
Ephedrine
Cocaine
Anabolic steroids

Lifestyle drugs used to enhance quality of life by addressing typically non-serious conditions

Viagra
Rogaine
Antidepressants are sometimes classed as lifestyle drugs, though this designation may be inappropriate as depression is a serious illness and can be life threatening.

Psychiatric drugs (see also psychopharmacology)

Antidepressants
Fluoxetine
Paroxetine
Tranquilizers
Typical antipsychotic tranquilizers
Chlorpromazine
Atypical antipsychotic tranquilizers
Sedatives
Valium

Drug Regulations

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