The term "club drugs" is attributed to a wide assortment of "mood altering" substances. The list includes depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens and opiate-like drugs. The name is derived through usage by those attending nightclubs, concerts, and all night entertainment events.

The drugs generally disrupt the neurons of the brain, impairing senses, judgement and coordination. Different drugs offer different results and a have a broad range of effects on the body. Included are loss of muscle control, blurred vision and seizures. Some cause profound "out of body experiences," hallucinations and loss of memory. Others are depressants and cause drowsiness, breathing problems or unconsciousness.

Club drugs can affect self-control and the decision-making processes. Drugs like GHB and Rohypnol have been identified in "date rape" incidents. They can cause a form of amnesia and the user may not remember what was said or done under their effects. Katamine is popular at "raves" and can be taken both powder and liquid form. Effects are rapid and depending on the dosage, can last for many hours. A return to "normal" can take up to two days. Doses of a gram or more can be fatal.

Because club drugs are illegal and often produced in crude, makeshift labs, it is impossible to know what chemicals were used in the production process. Strength and effects of these drugs vary with use and the consequences are totally unpredictable. High doses of club drugs can cause severe breathing problems and loss of consciousness leading to coma.

Many club drugs are addictive and alcoholic beverages frequently accompany usage. Such combinations can produce "compound" effects that are deadly.