Drug use, especially among young people, is often hidden behind slang and street names. These terms can make it difficult for parents, guardians, and educators to spot when someone may be struggling with addiction. Being aware of these names is helpful in catching problems early. At Woburn Addiction Treatment, we’re committed to helping families identify the signs of substance use and get the support they need. Below is a guide to common street names for drugs, along with warning signs that can help you spot potential issues.
Marijuana Street Names
Marijuana is widely used and comes with many slang terms:
- Weed
- Hash
- Grass
- Mary Jane
- Reefer
- Cannabis
- Hemp
- Herb
- Skunk
- Pot
- Boom
- Chronic
These names are used to refer to marijuana in everyday conversations. Terms like “Chronic” and “Boom” can sometimes be used to describe stronger or more potent strains.
Synthetic Marijuana Street Names
Synthetic marijuana, often marketed as a legal alternative to marijuana, is dangerous and has its own set of street names:
- K-2
- Spice
- Fake Weed
- Gold Spice
While marketed as a safer version of marijuana, synthetic cannabis can have severe, unpredictable effects, and its use is linked to a rise in hospital visits and mental health issues.
Cocaine Drug Street Names
Cocaine is a stimulant with several street names that vary based on its form or how it’s used:
- Blow
- C
- Candy
- Coke
- Do a Line
- Freeze
- Girl
- Happy Dust
- Mojo
- Nose
- Pimp
- Shot
- Snow
- Sugar
- Sweet Stuff
- White Powder
Cocaine’s street names often reflect the way it’s consumed (e.g., “Do a Line”) or its appearance (“White Powder”). These terms are widely used to keep the substance hidden in plain sight.
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Heroin Drug Street Names
Heroin is an extremely addictive opioid with several street names, many of which allude to its varying forms or potency:
- Big H
- Brown Sugar
- Antifreeze
- Cheese (when mixed with cough medicine)
- Horse
- Junk
- Mug
- Tar
- Train
- Skag
Heroin’s street names, such as “Big H” or “Horse,” are commonly used among users to refer to the drug in a more discreet manner.
Meth Drug Street Names
Methamphetamine, often referred to as “meth,” has many street names that describe the form of the drug or the method of use:
Meth
Chalk
Crank
Crystal
Crystal Meth
Glass
Ice
Speed
“Meth” and “Ice” are two of the most common terms used to refer to methamphetamine, with “Ice” specifically referring to its crystal form, which can be smoked for a quick, intense high.
Benzo Drug Street Names
Benzodiazepines are a class of depressants often prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders, but they’re frequently misused. Common street names include:
- Downers
- Blue Heavens
- Idiot Pills
- Joy Juice
- Rainbows
- Red Bullets
- Stoppers
These drugs are often abused for their calming and sedative effects, and street names like “Blue Heavens” or “Stoppers” are used to hide their true identity.
Fentanyl Drug Street Names
Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has become one of the leading contributors to overdose deaths. It is often disguised under various street names:
- Apache
- China Girl
- China Town
- Dance Fever
- Jackpot
- Murder 8
- Poison
- Tango and Cash
Fentanyl is extremely dangerous even in small amounts, and its street names often camouflage its deadly nature.
GHB (Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) Drug Street Names
GHB is a central nervous system depressant sometimes referred to as “liquid ecstasy” due to its euphoric effects. Common street names include:
- Cherry Meth
- Easy Lay
- Fantasy
- G-riffic
- Georgia Home Boy
- Liquid X
This drug is often abused for its intoxicating and calming effects, and slang terms like “Cherry Meth” or “Fantasy” are often used to obscure its true nature.
Warning Signs of Drug Use
- Sudden mood swings and drastic changes in behavior.
- Rapid weight loss.
- Dropping old friends and favorite activities.
- Decline in school performance and grades.
- Secretive behavior or isolation.
- Frequent use of mouthwash, body spray, or eye drops to mask drug use.
Starting the Conversation About Drugs
If you suspect someone is using drugs, it’s important to have an open, non-judgmental conversation:
- Have you ever been offered drugs? How did you respond?
- Do you feel pressured about drugs?
- Have you ever had the urge to try any?
- Do you have any questions for me about drugs?
Understanding Street Names for Drugs: A Guide for Families and Educators
At Woburn Addiction Treatment, we understand how challenging it can be to recognize the signs of substance use, especially when hidden behind coded language and street names. If you suspect a loved one may be struggling with addiction, our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, support, and evidence-based treatment options. Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out today to take the first step toward healing and recovery. Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future.
