There are various substances that have been contribution factors for the problem of drug addiction in Arizona. The commonly abused substances for several decades now have been cocaine, heroin and the locally produced marijuana. Until recently, these three substances constituted the bulk of the problem of drug abuse and drug addiction in Arizona, but recently new patterns have begun making their appearance.

Heroin has always been available abundantly in the form of black tar heroin. The main hub of its availability and even usage has been the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, where black tar heroin can be obtained at reduced prices. That is why this is also the reason of the most deaths due to heroin overdose in Arizona. However, it is seen in recent times that this heroin is also making inroads in the public schools of the state, thus targeting a much younger population that it did until five years ago.

Methamphetamine usage has also increased to drastic levels in Arizona. This drug is available locally, produced in numerous home laboratories within the state from where it is distributed to the nightclub and the rave party circuit. Methamphetamine is commonly used by the younger generation and hence poses a grave problem.

Another new trend is the rise in the amount of prescription drug addiction in Arizona. The most commonly abused prescription drug is OxyContin, but several other drugs like Demerol, Lortab, Dilaudid, Vicodin, etc. are also being abused. The commonest method of getting these drugs is through fake prescriptions from doctors since all these drugs are prescribed for treating health problems.

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