›› Ohio: Drug Climate

The primary drug threats in Ohio are powdered (and crack) cocaine and because the most violent crime in the state is attributed to their distribution and abuse. Also, the rising availability of high-purity, low-cost heroin is creating a large user population with a greater physical risk to users, who are younger than ever before. Marijuana remains the most abused drug in the state, and abuse among residents under 18 years of age ranks highest among all age groups. Club drugs and MDMA (Ecstasy) are also growing in popularity in urban areas. Meanwhile, methamphetamine manufacturing and use are increasing, but has not reached the levels of other states in the Midwest.

• Cocaine
  Powdered cocaine and crack cocaine constitute the greatest drug threats in Ohio, as evidenced by the fact that cocaine was the most prevalent drug of abuse detected among arrestees.
• Heroin
  Heroin distribution and abuse are increasing in Ohio, and the number of publicly funded treatment admission increased more than 16 percent.
• Meth
  In-state Methamphetamine production has become a significant issue in Ohio. The increase in Methamphetamine laboratories in Ohio has led to greater Methamphetamine availability throughout the state.
• Club Drugs
  The use of Club drugs such as Ecstasy (MDMA), GHB, Ketamine, and LSD has steadily increased in Ohio. Eleven of 15 Ohio law enforcement agencies reported an increase of club drug activity in year 2000.
• Marijuana
  Marijuana remains the most prevalent drug of abuse in Ohio. Marijuana usage crosses all socio-economic and cultural lines. Experimental use by juveniles (ranging from the ages of 10-12 years old) is also on the rise.