| Noun | 1. | drug of abuse - a drug that is taken for nonmedicinal reasons (usually for mind-altering effects); drug abuse can lead to physical and mental damage and (with some substances) dependence and addictionamphetamine, pep pill, upper, speed - a central nervous system stimulant that increases energy and decreases appetite; used to treat narcolepsy and some forms of depression barbiturate - organic compound having powerful soporific effect; overdose can be fatal drug - a substance that is used as a medicine or narcotic gateway drug - a habit-forming drug that is not addictive but its use may lead to the use of other addictive drugs; "one college athlete recently called beer a gateway drug for young people" soft drug - a drug of abuse that is considered relatively mild baccy, tobacco - leaves of the tobacco plant dried and prepared for smoking or ingestion | |