Drug Street Slang Your Teenager May Use

As a parent, staying informed about your teen’s world can be a challenge—especially when it comes to issues surrounding substance use. One of the biggest obstacles is the ever-changing language teens use to describe drugs and drug-related behaviors. “Street slang” is often designed to be covert, allowing teens to talk about risky behavior right under the noses of adults who may not understand the meaning behind the words.

At Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center in Agoura Hills, California, we believe knowledge is the first step toward early intervention and prevention. Understanding the slang your teen might use can help you identify red flags and open a window for a much-needed conversation or professional support.

In this blog, we’ll break down common drug street slang terms, what they mean, and how to spot signs of potential substance use in your teenager.

Learn more about our teen treatment programs in California or call us now at 800-275-1707.

Why Teens Use Slang for Drugs

Slang terms for drugs aren’t just a form of rebellion—they’re a communication tool. These terms help teens:

• Talk about drug use without alerting adults
• Bond with peers by sharing a coded language
• Create a sense of identity or community within a group

Unfortunately, this coded language also makes it harder for parents, teachers, and caregivers to identify when teens are discussing dangerous or illegal behaviors.

Common Drug Slang Terms and Their Meanings

Let’s look at some of the most frequently used slang for drugs. Keep in mind that terms vary by region and change frequently, so staying up-to-date is important.

Marijuana

• Weed / Pot / Bud / Herb – Most commonly known terms
• 420 – A code that refers to smoking marijuana
• Green / Ganja / Mary Jane – Alternative slang for cannabis
• Blunt – A cigar hollowed out and filled with marijuana
• Doobie – Slang for a marijuana joint

Cocaine

• Blow / Snow / White – Street names that reference the powder form
• Yayo / Nose candy – Informal ways to talk about snorting cocaine
• Bump – A small dose of cocaine, typically snorted

Prescription Pills

• Bars – Slang for Xanax (especially the rectangular-shaped tablets)
• Zannies – Another term for Xanax
• Perks – Short for Percocet
• Oxy – Refers to OxyContin or oxycodone
• Candy – General slang for any prescription pills, often used to disguise the drug’s identity

MDMA / Ecstasy

• Molly – Supposedly pure MDMA
• E / X / XTC – Shortened versions of the word ecstasy
• Rolling – Term used to describe the high from taking ecstasy

Methamphetamine

• Crystal / Ice / Glass – Terms that describe the crystalline form
• Tina – A discreet way to refer to meth
• Crank – An older but still-used term for meth

Heroin

• Smack / H / Horse – All slang terms for heroin
• Dope – Although commonly associated with marijuana, can also refer to heroin
• Chasing the dragon – Slang for smoking heroin

Fentanyl and Synthetic Drugs

• China White – Can refer to heroin laced with fentanyl
• Apache – A nickname for fentanyl patches or pills
• Blues – Slang for counterfeit Oxycodone pills often laced with fentanyl

Vaping and Nicotine Products

• Juuling – Refers to using a JUUL brand vape
• Cloud chasing – Vaping for large vapor clouds, often linked with flavored nicotine or THC products

How to Spot the Signs of Teen Drug Use

Understanding slang is only part of the puzzle. Knowing how to identify behavior changes can help you intervene early. Keep an eye out for:

• Changes in friend groups or secrecy around social life
• Declining academic performance
• Mood swings, irritability, or sudden outbursts
• Smells of smoke or chemicals on clothes or in their room
• Use of slang terms listed above in texts, social media, or conversations
• Finding unfamiliar pills, lighters, or paraphernalia

If you’re noticing any combination of these signs, don’t panic—but do act. Conversations rooted in concern, not punishment, are most effective. Teens are more likely to open up when they feel safe and supported rather than accused.

Why Street Slang Awareness Matters

Drug street slang evolves quickly. What was common five years ago may be outdated today. Staying aware of the terms your teen might use or encounter on social media, in song lyrics, or among friends helps bridge the communication gap.

At Hillcrest, we know that prevention starts with education. By helping parents understand the words and warning signs associated with drug use, we empower families to take action before experimentation turns into dependency or addiction.

What To Do If You Suspect Substance Use

If your teen is using street slang about drugs—or if you have a gut feeling something isn’t right—trust your instincts. Start by having a calm, open conversation. Ask questions like:

• “I’ve noticed you’ve been saying certain words lately—what do they mean?”
• “I care about you and your health. Can we talk about what’s going on?”

Sometimes, talking isn’t enough. That’s where professional help comes in.

Contact Us For Support

At Hillcrest Adolescent Treatment Center, we specialize in compassionate, evidence-based care for teens struggling with substance abuse, mental health challenges, and co-occurring disorders. Our facility in Agoura Hills, California provides a structured, nurturing environment where teens can heal and families can rebuild trust.

If you’re worried about your child’s behavior or believe they may be using drugs, don’t wait. Early intervention makes a significant difference in long-term outcomes.

Reach out today to learn more about our programs or speak with a qualified admissions counselor. You are not alone—and your teen doesn’t have to face this alone either.