How does the law distinguish between soft and hard drugs?

Dutch law distinguishes between hard and soft drugs. Soft drugs are less hazardous to health than hard drugs.

Soft drugs

Soft drugs are less hazardous to health than hard drugs. Soft drugs are not harmless substances, but the risks are less serious than the risks associated with using hard drugs. Soft drugs include, for example, hash, marijuana, sleeping pills and sedatives.

Hard drugs

The risks associated with hard drugs are greater than in the case of soft drugs, especially in terms of health hazards, addiction, and the impact on public order. Hard drugs include, for instance, heroin, cocaine, amphetamine, LSD and ecstasy.