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Drug Categorization

Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) classify the drugs of abuse into seven categories. The seven DRE drug categories are:

• CNS Depressant - Prozac - Xanax
• CNS Stimulant - Methamphetamine, Cocaine
• Hallucinogens - Ecstasy, Psilocybin Mushrooms
• Dissociative Anesthetics - PCP, Dextromethorphan
• Narcotic Analgesics - Heroin, Demerol
• Inhalants - Spray Paint, Nitrous Oxide
• Cannabis - Marijuana, Hashish

This categorization system is based on the premise that each drug within a category produces a pattern of effects, known as signs and symptoms. The DRE records these observed signs and symptoms during their evaluation. The DRE then forms an opinion from the totality of information obtained during that evaluation to form an opinion on impairment and the category or categories of drugs that are causing that impairment.

The seven drug categories have numerous drugs within each category, the overall pattern of effects within the category at hand is the same. The effects can and do vary from drug to drug, primarily in terms of intensity and duration of effect.

The effects of any drug depend upon many factors. A major factor is the dose amount. Generally, the effects of a drug are dose-dependent. More of the drug, such as alcohol, will generally produce more pronounced effects. The effects also depend on the user's tolerance to the drug, how the drug was administered, the drug's purity, the user's expectations, coexisting illness, fatigue, and the presence of other drugs. The effects of a drug also vary in the same individual.

Drug abusers use drugs for effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS), primarily the brain. The use of a CNS Drug while operating a motor vehicle is a recipe for disaster and a major concern to police and the general public.

The DRE program is a vital tool used in the efforts of recognizing impaired drivers and removing them from the roadways.