Substance abuse among adolescents and young adults continues to be of concern nationwide for a variety of reasons, one of which is the impact of these illicit substances on their health immediate or subsequent lives. This research will focus on the abuse of cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy. Reports from various agencies often describe drug users as seriously impaired in health; recent research suggests that these outcomes are not as severe as previously thought (Edwards, 2004). A thorough review of current literature suggests that substance abuse can make users vulnerable to a variety of health problems. However, many of these problems can be addressed with a variety of interventions. The study suggests that the individual's home environment or social bond may have a stronger influence on substance abuse than individual judgment (Horwood, 1997). This research will highlight recent findings in the academic literature regarding the debate on the long-term effects of recreational illicit drug abuse by adolescents and young adults in their later years. Exposure to cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis has been the focus of most research findings and, therefore, is mainly present in the literature. Highlighted here are research findings related to brain development, social interaction, behavior, skills, attachment, and physical appearance. Possible implications, interventions and policies such as drug legislation are also discussed (Spooner, 2005). Literature Review The research undertakes a literature review of substance abuse during early life. Although the research focuses on the consequences of adolescent or early adult behavior in adults, it is… half of the article… (1993). Antecedents and consequences of cocaine use: An eight-year study from early adolescence to young adulthood. In L. N. Robins and M. Rutter (Eds.), Straight and Devious Pathways from Childhood to Adulthood (pp. 158-181).Pearson, G., (1987). Social deprivation, unemployment and patterns of heroin use in Dorn, N & South, N. (eds) A land fit for heroin. Aldershot: Gower.Room, R. (2005). Stigma, social inequality and alcohol and drug use. Drug and Alcohol Review Vol. 24, 143 – 155Seddon, T. (2000). Explaining the link between drugs and crime: Journal of Social Policy Vol. of Theory, Policy and Research. 29, no. 1, 95-107. Spooner, C. (2005). Structural determinants of drug use: A call to broaden our thinking. Drug and Alcohol Review, Vol. 24, 89 - 92Wilkinson, R. G. (2001). Unhealthy societies. The sufferings of inequality. London: Routledge