• • What is a Drug?

  • What Are Some Types of Drugs

  • What is a Supplement?

  • Types of Supplement

  • Difference Between Drugs and Supplements

  • Is Kava Considered a Drug?

The word "drug" often comes with an air of negativity in our social landscape. Many millenials to baby boomers still remember the negative connotations seared into the ever-present frying-egg-drug commercials of the 90's. But we must remember that drugs also include pharmaceutical drugs (which is arguable in their safety). In general, a drug is a substance that can serve various purposes such as diagnosing, preventing, treating, or alleviating symptoms of a disease or health condition. Additionally, drugs have the potential to alter the functions of the brain and body, leading to changes in mood, perception, and behavior. Some drugs can even enhance the production of specific neurotransmitters in the brain, while others can inhibit their release.

Depending on the purpose and legality of their use, drugs can be categorized as either prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or illicit substances. While some drugs are strictly intended for medical treatment, others may be abused for recreational purposes (ie, street versions of heroin, cocaine, etc)

• Stimulants are psychoactive substances that increase activity in the central nervous system, leading to heightened alertness, attention, and energy levels. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which regulate mood, attention, and motivation. Stimulants such as cocaine, amphetamines, and caffeine have medical applications, but can also be abused, potentially leading to harmful effects on an individual's health and well-being.
• Depressants, on the other hand, decrease central nervous system activity, resulting in relaxation, sedation, and reduced anxiety. They increase activity in the neurotransmitter channels, mainly GABA, which inhibits specific brain signals and decreases nervous system activity. This slowdown in brain activity produces calming effects on the body. Examples of depressants include alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates.
• Hallucinogens are substances that can alter an individual's perception, thoughts, and emotions, leading to hallucinations and distorted reality. They produce effects that vary depending on the substance, dose, and an individual's tolerance, potentially causing feelings of euphoria, terror, or both (yes it's possible). Examples of hallucinogens include LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and Mescaline. These substances are generally considered illegal due to their high potential for abuse and psychological dependence, although some users report positive effects such as increased creativity, spirituality, and recovering abilities from substance abuse.
• Opioids are a class of drugs that connect to specific receptors in the brain and body, reducing pain perception and producing a sense of pleasure, relaxation, and euphoria. While effective for relieving acute or chronic pain, opioids are highly addictive and may lead to overdose and other negative consequences. They include both illegal drugs such as morphine or heroin, and legal prescription drugs such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and fentanyl.
• Cannabis is a plant-derived substance containing over a hundred chemical compounds called cannabinoids. The two main cannabinoids are THC, which produces a "high" affecting mental state, and CBD, which is non-psychoactive and has potential medicinal uses. Cannabis has been used recreationally and medicinally for thousands of years, and is typically consumed orally, smoked, or vaporized. The effects of cannabis vary depending on dose, consumption method, body weight, and tolerance, potentially leading to relaxation, altered perception of time, increased appetite, and dry mouth, among other effects.
• Prescription drugs are medications available only with a doctor's prescription, used to treat medical conditions such as pain, anxiety, and depression. They are regulated by the government and strictly monitored for sale and distribution. Prescription drugs are designed to be used under a healthcare professional's supervision to track the patient's development and adjust the dosage as necessary. They must undergo rigorous testing, including clinical trials, to ensure safety and efficacy, and should always be taken according to a physician's instructions to avoid potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
• Over-the-counter drugs (OTC) are medications that can be purchased without a prescription and are commonly used to treat minor illnesses and symptoms such as pain, allergies, colds, and flu. They are still regulated by the FDA and must meet safety and efficacy standards. It is essential to read and follow the label's instructions to ensure effectiveness and avoid possible side effects.
• Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are substances that athletes, bodybuilders, and others use to improve physical strength, performance, and endurance. They may also help in building muscle, reducing body fat, or improving recovery time between workouts. Some PEDs are legal and require a healthcare professional's prescription, while others are illegal and obtained unlawfully. Using PEDs for non-medical purposes is illegal and prohibited by most sports organizations as cheating, resulting in penalties for athletes(8).

Supplements come in various forms such as pills, powders, liquids, capsules, and even gummies, and they are designed to provide extra nutrients like minerals, vitamins, amino acids, or other substances. However, they are not meant to replace a healthy diet but can be beneficial if someone is lacking in specific nutrients.

Supplements and drugs have several differences.

1. Regulation: In the US, the Food and Drug Administration regulates drugs, while supplements are regulated by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act. Unlike drugs, supplements do not undergo extensive testing and approval procedures (1).
2. Intented use: Supplements are meant to provide additional nutrients to the body, while drugs are intended to cure, treat or prevent illnesses. It is prohibited for supplements to claim that they can cure any illness.
3. Active ingredients: The active ingredients in drugs have been thoroughly tested for safety and potency, while supplements may contain vitamins, herbs, minerals, and other botanicals that have not been as rigorously examined.
4. Dosage: Drugs are typically prescribed by healthcare professionals and have specific dosages, while supplements are available without a prescription and do not have a specific recommended dosage.
5. Side effects: Although supplements are generally considered safe, they can have potential side effects. In contrast, drugs can also have side effects, but these are closely monitored by healthcare professionals.

Kava's classification varies from country to country and it can be marketed as a dietary supplement or regulated as a drug. The debate on whether kava should be classified as a drug revolves around its potential for abuse and dependence. Reports suggest that kava users may experience withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation but not necessarily become addicted in the classical form of addiction.

Kava COULD be classified as a drug due to several reasons.

1. kavalactones: kava's active compounds, called kavalactones, have psychoactive effects that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain. This can result in calming and mood-enhancing effects that resemble drug-like effects. Kavalactones may also have mind-altering effects on the central nervous system, further classifying it as a drug.
2. potential for abuse and dependance: kava has the potential for abuse and dependence, especially when consumed in large quantities or for extended periods. Tolerance, withdrawal, and dependence are all characteristics of drug use that may occur with heavy and daily kava use.
3. regulatory status: several countries, including Australia, regulate kava as a drug, with some even banning or restricting its use due to safety concerns such as liver toxicity and potential drug interactions.

But surprise surprise, it is not considered to be a drug

In the US, kava is classified as a dietary supplement and is not a controlled substance, but is subject to FDA regulations. The FDA has issued advisories regarding the potential health risks associated with kava, and has been closely monitoring reports of side effects since 2002(11). Some states in the US also have their own regulations over kava, such as requiring warning labels on products and prohibiting driving under the influence of kava.

In Canada, kava is classified as a natural health product and regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations, but is not allowed to be sold due to its potential for liver damage. However, it can be sold if it is part of an approved product by Health Canada.

HOWEVER, In Australia, kava is considered a depressant drug and its importing, distribution, and advertising are strictly controlled by the government. Companies can import kava products as long as they meet Australia's national food standard, but state and territory governments still have the final say on whether kava can be sold or bought in their respective territories(12).

Some countries, such as England, Germany, Switzerland, and others, have also classified kava as a drug due to its potential for liver toxicity and negative interactions with other substances. Kava supplements are considered safe if taken in moderation, but long-term and heavy use of kava is still a topic of discussion. Some experts insist that kava should be regulated as a drug due to its potential for negative side effects and interactions with medications.

If you’re interested to know about the legality of kava in your country, check out our blog here.

In conclusion, there are different types of drugs and supplements but the classification of kava is different in each country. Kava may be considered a dietary supplement or a drug depending on the country's regulations and their view on the potential health risk of the product. In the US, kava is considered a dietary supplement, however sellers and consumers are advised to follow the warnings and guidelines set by the government.

Concerns on kava's potential for health risks, dependency and abuse have influenced other countries like the United Kingdom, Greece and some Western countries to regulate kava as a drug and should have a prescription. It is recommended to consume kava in moderation to avoid possible side effects. If you’re thinking of taking kava, it is best to consult a health professional first to ensure safety.  

Please do remember we are not medically trained physicians and nothing in here should be substituted for medical advice.