Category

Stimulant/depressant

What it looks like and how it's taken

Cigarettes, pipes, cigars, loose tobacco, chewing tobacco. Is smoked or chewed.

Immediate effects

Acts fast, first increasing alertness then producing a sense of relaxation.

Risks

Short term: Nicotine addiction can develop quite rapidly and regular smokers often feel anxious and irritable if unable to smoke. Smoking can restrict growth in young people.

Long term: Other chemicals in tobacco cause lung cancer and stomach diseases, heart disease, circulation problems, wrinkled skin and premature ageing.

Legal status

It is illegal for retailers to sell tobacco to anyone under 18.

Learn more about drugs and the law.

Associated paraphernalia

Rolling papers, filters.

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