The most important thing to remember? There is no safe way to use drugs. If you've already decided you want to use drugs, there are ways to reduce risks though, so read on…

Don't mix drugs
And why would you want to do that? Different drugs are used together to make the experience more intense or to counteract some effects of one drug by using another. For example, speed is sometimes taken with ecstasy in an attempt to add energy to the high; tranquillisers might be used to help sleep after a night out using amphetamines. Mixing drugs (yes that definitely includes alcohol) increases risks. You can never be sure how one drug will react with another, so don't mix them. Certain drugs can also mask the early signs of an overdose.

Don't do drugs on your own
You need to be around people that make you feel safe, particularly if you are not an experienced user. Strangers can make you feel even more anxious or paranoid if the drugs are having a bad effect. If you get into trouble, you'll need people you can rely on to help you out.

Know what you're taking
Not always possible, we know - illegal drugs tend not to come with the ingredients written on the side of the bag. Almost all drugs have been mixed or 'cut' with other substances so you can never be sure about their strength or what they've been mixed with. As far as possible, only buy drugs from people you trust (ok, we know drug dealers aren't always renowned for their integrity, but don't buy on street corners or in clubs).

Be patient
There are loads of factors that influence how quickly a drug will take effect - how you take it (inject, snort, swallow), whether you've eaten recently, how tired you are, the purity of drug etc. Don't be fooled into thinking the drug hasn't worked and take more, you'll be in danger of overdosing and certainly in for an unpredictable experience when the double dose kicks in. As you can never be sure about the content or strength of what you're taking, try a small amount first and WAIT for it to take effect.

Stay healthy

Using drugs can affect your health in many ways so it's important that you eat well, drink lots - that's water, fruit juice, herbal tea (lay off the vodka for a while eh?) - get enough sleep, and get regular health checks. And don't use drugs if you're feeling unwell, anxious or depressed. Even if the immediate effects give you relief from your other symptoms, the chances are your comedown will be far worse. If you're using drugs to mask other problems you're at risk of becoming dependant. Look after yourself.

And lastly, yes we've said it before and we'll sing it again, there's still no safe way to use drugs.