The term "alcohol and drugs" refers to substances that are consumed for their mind-altering effects. Alcohol is a legal substance that can cause intoxication, relaxation or other mood changes when consumed in excess. Drugs, on the other hand, refer to a wide range of substances including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and illicit substances like marijuana, cocaine, heroin and others that are taken for their mind-altering effects. Both alcohol and drugs can have negative consequences when used excessively or abused, leading to addiction, health problems, legal issues and other social and personal harms.