Teenagers often use drug slang as a covert way to discuss substance use, making it challenging for parents to understand and intervene. This evolving language can include many terms, often unfamiliar to those outside youth circles. Recognizing these terms can be crucial in identifying and addressing teen substance use early.
Drug slang, a lexicon often as elusive as it is ever-changing, presents a unique challenge for parents in today’s world.
Teens use these terms to discreetly discuss substance use, making it difficult for adults to decipher their conversations. This linguistic barrier can hinder early detection and intervention in cases of substance abuse. If you recognize your teen using drug slang in conversation, it may be time to talk to your teen about the dangers of substance abuse.
In this article, you will discover everything a concerned parent needs to know about drug slang and what to do if you suspect your teen is abusing drugs.
Understanding Drug Slang
Drug slang comprises a dynamic set of terms that teens use to talk about drugs and their use without drawing attention.
These terms can vary regionally and evolve rapidly, often due to increased awareness among parents and authorities. Understanding this slang is not just about learning the lingo but bridging the communication gap with teens.
It’s a critical step for parents and guardians to recognize potential warning signs of substance abuse and initiate timely conversations about drug use.
Common Drug Slang
Decoding drug slang is essential for parents to stay connected and aware of their teen’s world.
These terms are often creative and may seem harmless but can indicate deeper issues with substance use. Recognizing them is the first step in understanding whether your teen might be experimenting with or regularly using drugs.
Here are the most common drugs abused by teenagers and the drug slang used to describe them:
Alcohol: Booze, Liquor, Brew, Sauce
Understanding alcohol-related drug slang is vital for parents, as alcohol is often the first substance teens experiment with. Recognizing these terms can be key in identifying and addressing alcohol use among adolescents. Here’s a concise list of slang terms for alcohol:
- Booze: A general term for alcoholic drinks.
- Liquor: Refers specifically to distilled spirits.
- Brew: Commonly used for beer.
- Sauce: A humorous or casual reference to any alcohol.
- Hard Stuff: Slang for spirits or hard liquor.
- Cold One: Typically refers to a beer.
- Hooch: An old term, now used for any alcohol.
- Suds: A playful term for beer.
- Other terms: Bong, hose monster, crunk, hand grenade, pre-game, wasted.
Example:
Teen 1: “Will there be any sauce at Mike’s house?”
Teen 2: “Yeah, and his older brother has a bong.”
Awareness of these terms helps parents initiate conversations about alcohol use and its risks. Early intervention, like the support offered through the teen treatment programs at Visions Treatment Centers, is crucial for teen well-being.
Marijuana: Weed, Pot, Grass, Mary Jane
Marijuana, often referred to by various slang terms, is one of the most commonly used illicit drugs among teenagers. The normalization and changing legal status of marijuana in many areas can make it seem less dangerous in the eyes of teens, yet its use during adolescence can have significant implications. For parents, recognizing the slang terms for marijuana is crucial in identifying and discussing its use with their teens. Here are some of the most common slang terms for marijuana:
- Weed: A widely used term for marijuana.
- Pot: Another very common, longstanding slang term.
- Grass: An older term that’s still in use.
- Mary Jane: A personification of marijuana, often used in media.
- Herb: Refers to marijuana, emphasizing its natural origins.
- Ganja: Borrowed from Hindi, used to refer to marijuana.
- Bud: Refers to the actual flower part of the marijuana plant.
- Green: A simple reference to the color of the plant.
Example:
Teen 1: “Do you have any bud?”
Teen 2: “Nah, but I can get some from Jake. His brother grows his own grass.”
Being aware of these terms enables parents to understand better their teen’s conversations and behaviors related to marijuana use.
These discussions need to be open and informative, highlighting the potential risks and legal implications of marijuana use in adolescents.
Painkillers: Oxy, Vikes, Percs, Painkillers
Painkillers, particularly prescription opioids, have become a major issue in teen drug abuse. These medications are often misused for their euphoric effects, leading to addiction and, in some cases, transition to harder substances like heroin. It’s crucial for parents to recognize the slang terms associated with painkillers to detect and prevent their misuse.
Commonly used terms include:
- Oxy: Short for OxyContin, a commonly abused opioid painkiller.
- Vikes: Slang for Vicodin, another prescription painkiller.
- Percs: Refers to Percocet, a painkiller containing oxycodone and acetaminophen.
- Painkillers: A general term for any prescription opioid medication.
- Tabs: Short for tablets, often referring to painkiller pills.
- Blues: Can refer to oxycodone or other blue-colored painkiller pills.
Example:
Teen 1: “Feeling stressed about the exams?”
Teen 2: “Yeah, might pop an Oxy to relax.”
Teen 1: “Careful with that stuff. Aren’t those Painkillers pretty strong?”
Teen 2: “They are, but one Vike won’t hurt.”
Awareness of these terms can help parents in the early identification of painkiller misuse. Addressing this issue is crucial, given the high risk of addiction and overdose.
Benzodiazepines: Benzos, Xannies, Valium, Bars
Benzodiazepines, often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia, are another class of medications frequently misused by teens.
Their misuse can lead to dependence, overdose, and dangerous interactions with other substances. Familiarity with the slang terms for benzodiazepines can be a key tool for parents in identifying misuse.
These terms include:
- Benzos: A catch-all term for any benzodiazepine medication.
- Xannies: Slang for Xanax, one of the most commonly misused benzodiazepines.
- Valium: Named after the brand Valium, it is often used generically for similar drugs.
- Bars: Refers to the bar-shaped Xanax pills, indicative of a high dose.
- Footballs: Named for their shape, often refers to smaller-dosed Xanax pills.
- Downers: A general term for benzodiazepines, emphasizing their sedative effects.
Example:
Teen 1: “I couldn’t sleep at all last night.”
Teen 2: “Why not try some Benzos? They knock you right out.”
Teen 1: “Aren’t those like Xannies?”
Teen 2: “Yeah, or Valium. They all just chill you out.”
Understanding these terms is essential for parents to recognize discussions or signs of benzodiazepine abuse.
ADHD Medications: Addy, Ritalin, Study Drugs
ADHD medications, prescribed for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, are increasingly misused by teens, often labeled as ‘study drugs.’ This misuse stems from the belief that these drugs enhance focus and academic performance. Parents need to recognize the slang terms for these medications to identify and address their misuse.
Common slang terms include:
- Addy: Short for Adderall, a widely misused ADHD medication.
- Ritalin: Another common ADHD medication, often abused.
- Study Drugs: A general term for any ADHD medication used to enhance academic performance.
- Smart Pills: Refers to the perceived cognitive benefits of these drugs.
- Uppers: A term indicating their stimulant nature.
- Beans: Slang for pills, sometimes specifically for ADHD medications.
Example:
Teen 1: “Got a ton of work to finish.”
Teen 2: “You should try some Addy; it helps you focus.”
Teen 1: “Isn’t that a Study Drug?”
Teen 2: “Yeah, like Ritalin, but it really works.”
Awareness of these terms is a critical step in preventing the non-medical use of ADHD medications among teens.
Nicotine (Vaping): Juuling, Vape, E-cig, Mod
Vaping, the act of inhaling vapor from e-cigarette devices, has become a popular trend among teens, often seen as a safer alternative to smoking. However, it poses significant health risks, especially for young users. The slang terms associated with vaping include:
- Juuling: Named after the popular Juul e-cigarettes.
- Vape: Refers to the act of using any e-cigarette.
- E-cig: Short for electronic cigarette.
- Mod: Refers to a modified or customizable vape device.
- Clouds: Refers to the vapor produced by e-cigarettes.
- Nic: Short for nicotine, often used in the context of vaping.
Example:
Teen 1: “Did you bring your Juul?”
Teen 2: “No, but I’ve got my new Vape Mod.”
Teen 1: “Is it better than a regular E-cig?”
Teen 2: “Totally, the flavor and cloud are amazing.”
Parental awareness of these terms and the risks associated with vaping is essential. Discussions about the potential health implications and addictiveness of nicotine can deter teens from starting or continuing to vape.
Cocaine: Coke, Blow, Snow, Powder
Cocaine, a powerful and addictive stimulant drug, is unfortunately present in teen drug use. Recognizing the slang terms for cocaine can help parents identify if their teen is discussing or involved with the substance. The slang terms include:
- Coke: A commonly used term for cocaine.
- Blow: Another widely used slang for cocaine.
- Snow: Refers to the white, powdery appearance of cocaine.
- Powder: A generic term often used for cocaine.
- White: A simple reference to the color of cocaine.
- Rail: Slang for a line of powdered cocaine.
Example:
Teen 1: “Have you ever tried Coke?”
Teen 2: “No way, that’s hardcore. Snow’s not my thing.”
Teen 1: “Yeah, messing with Powder seems risky.”
Teen 2: “Definitely, Blow is way too intense for me.”
Understanding these terms can enable parents to detect potential cocaine use and initiate timely interventions. Addressing cocaine use early is crucial due to its addictive nature and severe health risks.
Ecstasy (MDMA): Molly, E, X, XTC
Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a popular drug in party and club scenes, often associated with youth culture. Its use among teenagers is a concern due to its potent effects and potential for harmful impurities. Parents should be aware of the common slang terms for ecstasy to recognize discussions or references to its use.
These terms include:
- Molly: Slang for the supposedly pure crystalline powder form of MDMA.
- E: A simple abbreviation for ecstasy.
- X or XTC: Both are short forms of ecstasy, emphasizing its recreational use.
- Beans: Sometimes used to refer to ecstasy pills.
- Rolls: Refers to the pill form of ecstasy, highlighting the “rolling” effect of the drug.
- Happy Pill: A term that plays on the euphoria-inducing effect of ecstasy.
Example:
Teen 1: “There’s a rave next weekend. Want to go?”
Teen 2: “Sure, will there be Molly?”
Teen 1: “Most likely. People usually bring E to these things.”
Teen 2: “I’ve heard XTC can be fun at parties.”
Recognizing these terms can help parents initiate conversations about the risks associated with ecstasy, including addiction and the danger of unknown additives.
Methamphetamine: Meth, Crystal, Ice, Crank
Methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant, poses a significant risk to teens. Its use can lead to severe physical and mental health issues. Being familiar with the slang terms for methamphetamine can alert parents to potential use or exposure. The common slang terms include:
- Meth: The most common and straightforward slang for methamphetamine.
- Crystal or Crystal Meth: Refers to the crystalline form of methamphetamine.
- Ice: A term used for high-purity crystal meth.
- Crank: An older term that still sees usage, referring to methamphetamine.
- Glass: Describes the appearance of high-quality crystal meth.
- Speed: A term that emphasizes the drug’s stimulant effects.
Example:
Teen 1: “Did you hear about the Meth going around school?”
Teen 2: “Yeah, I heard it’s called Crystal or Ice.”
Teen 1: “That’s scary. I heard Crank can mess you up.”
Teen 2: “Totally, Meth is bad news.”
Awareness of these terms and the dangers associated with methamphetamine use is crucial for parents.
Inhalants: Huff, Whippets, Poppers, Glue
Inhalants are substances that produce chemical vapors inhaled to induce psychoactive effects. Teens commonly abuse these due to their easy accessibility. The slang terms associated with inhalants are often derived from the products used or the method of ingestion:
- Huff: Refers to the act of inhaling vapors from substances.
- Whippets: Slang for nitrous oxide, often inhaled from small canisters.
- Poppers: A term for inhalants inhaled for a quick, intense high.
- Glue: Directly refers to inhaling vapors from glue products.
- Sniff: A general term for inhaling substances.
- Nitro: Sometimes used for nitrous oxide inhalants.
Example:
Teen 1: “Some kids were Huffing in the park.”
Teen 2: “Really? Like Glue or something?”
Teen 1: “I think it was Whippets.”
Teen 2: “That’s crazy. I’ve heard of Poppers, but never tried them.”
Parents should understand these terms to recognize and address inhalant use, which can be particularly harmful due to the toxic chemicals involved.
Synthetic Marijuana: Spice, K2, Fake Weed, Yucatan Fire
Synthetic marijuana, often marketed as a “safe” alternative to natural marijuana, is a significant concern among teens. These synthetic compounds can have unpredictable and dangerous effects. Parents should be aware of the common slang terms to identify potential use or interest in these substances. The slang terms include:
- Spice: A common brand name that’s become synonymous with synthetic marijuana.
- K2: Another popular brand name used as a general term.
- Fake Weed: A straightforward term that highlights its imitation nature.
- Yucatan Fire: A specific brand name that’s also used more generally.
- Scooby Snax: Sometimes used to refer to certain varieties of synthetic marijuana.
- Herbal Incense: A term that disguises its true purpose.
Example:
Teen 1: “Have you tried Spice yet?”
Teen 2: “No, but I’ve heard it’s like weed but different.”
Teen 1: “It’s similar but synthetic .”
Understanding these terms can help parents recognize and discuss the serious health risks associated with synthetic marijuana use, including its unpredictable potency and effects.
LSD: Acid
LSD, a powerful hallucinogenic drug, has been a part of youth drug culture for decades. Its use among teenagers is a concern due to its potent mind-altering effects and the unpredictability of these experiences. Parents should be familiar with the slang terms for LSD to understand conversations about its use.
These terms include:
- Acid: The most common slang term for LSD, referring to its chemical nature.
- Blotter: Describes LSD when it’s distributed on small squares of paper.
- Dots: Refers to the small, dot-like appearance of LSD on blotter paper.
- Lucy: A personification of LSD, often used in a casual context.
- Other terms: Windowpane, barrels, cube, white dust, purple haze, and sugar cubes
- Trips: A term referring to the experience of using LSD.
- Tabs: Short for the tabs of blotter paper impregnated with LSD.
Example:
Teen 1: “Want to go to the party later?”
Teen 2: “Yeah, I heard Lucy would be there.”
Recognizing these terms enables parents to initiate important discussions about the risks associated with LSD use, including its impact on mental health and perception.
Teen Substance Abuse Treatment
Noticing your teen is using drug slang in conversation can be both alarming and overwhelming. As a parent, you’re faced with the critical task of talking with your teen about drugs and, if your teen is abusing drugs, finding the right help to guide them back to health and happiness.
Visions Adolescent Treatment Centers in Southern California offers specialized mental health and substance abuse treatment programs for teens facing substance abuse and mental health issues. Our serene, supportive environment fosters healing and growth.
Contact us to explore how we can support you and your teen.
Conclusion
Understanding drug slang and its implications is vital to parenting in the modern world. Staying informed and maintaining open, honest dialogues with your teen are critical strategies in preventing and addressing substance abuse.
If you suspect your teen is abusing drugs, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance and support. Remember, early intervention can significantly impact your teen’s life and future.
Visions Adolescent Treatment Centers provide the help and support parents and teens need to overcome substance abuse issues in Southern California. Contact us today to learn more about our teen treatment programs.
