Heroin and tranquilizers are considered what type of drugs, similar to alcohol?

• A. Mind-altering drug
• B. Nutritional supplement
• C. Sedative-hypnotic
• D. Over-the-counter analgesic

Answer: (B)

These substances share the effect of changing how the brain works, altering mood, perception, or consciousness. Heroin changes mood and can slow thinking and reaction, tranquilizers slow brain activity, and alcohol depresses the central nervous system; all of them alter mental state. They’re not nutritional supplements, which are used to provide nutrients, and they’re not simply over-the-counter pain relievers. While tranquilizers and alcohol are often described as sedative-hypnotics, that label doesn’t cover heroin, making the broader category of mind-altering drugs the best fit for all three.