How many drug categories are recognized in the DRE system?

The Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) program classifies drugs into seven distinct categories based on their effects on the body and impairment potential. This classification system is designed to assist law enforcement in identifying the specific type of drug influencing an individual.

Each of the seven categories represents a different class of substances with unique pharmacological effects. These categories include:

1. Central Nervous System Depressants: Drugs that slow brain activity and body functions, such as alcohol and benzodiazepines.

2. Central Nervous System Stimulants: Substances that increase alertness and energy levels, such as cocaine and amphetamines.

3. Hallucinogens: Drugs that alter perception, mood, and thought processes, like LSD and psilocybin.

4. Dissociative Anesthetics: Substances that distort perceptions of sight and sound and produce feelings of detachment from the environment and self, such as PCP and ketamine.

5. Narcotic Analgesics: Opioids that relieve pain, such as heroin, morphine, and prescription painkillers.

6. Inhalants: Substances that are inhaled for psychoactive effects, often found in household products.

7. Cannabis: This category includes marijuana and its derivatives.

Understanding