Which term refers to substances illegal to possess or sell?

• A. Alcohol
• B. Rx drugs
• C. Withdrawal
• D. Illegal drugs

Answer: (D)

Substances illegal to possess or sell are referred to as illegal drugs. This label centers on legal status—the drugs are prohibited by law, which is why possession or sale is criminalized. Alcohol, while regulated, is legal in many places. Prescription (Rx) drugs are legal when used with a valid prescription. Withdrawal is a physiological response to stopping a drug, not a category of substances. So the term that directly conveys the legal prohibition on possession or sale is illegal drugs. (These are also commonly called illicit drugs.)