Another Look At Why Alcohol May Be More Dangerous Than Heroin

A 2010 study by former UK drug czar David Nutt found alcohol to be the most dangerous drug in the country. The research rated 20 drugs on how much harm each caused to users and to others when misused.

This chart from Nutt's study showed the overall rankings:

"Our findings ... accord with the conclusions of previous expert reports that aggressively targeting alcohol harm is a valid and necessary public health strategy," the authors of the study wrote.

Another way to view the study's findings has been published by 12 Keys Recovery. The infographic details types of harm caused by each drug and looks at the two types of harm. Alcohol stands out, especially in regard to collateral damage.