In Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World', the government-issued euphoric drug is called soma.
Soma is distributed throughout the World State as a way to maintain social stability. Citizens take it to escape anxiety, sadness, conflict, and unpleasant thoughts; its effects are described as pleasurable and calming, with no apparent hangover. The slogan "a gramme is better than a damn" captures the society's preference for chemically managed happiness over emotional or political dissatisfaction.
The drug also replaces older sources of meaning, including religion, family, and personal reflection. Lenina Crowne uses soma routinely, while John the Savage rejects it because he believes suffering and difficult emotions are part of genuine human freedom. Linda's excessive consumption of soma ultimately contributes to her death.
Huxley's fictional drug was inspired partly by soma, a sacred ritual drink mentioned in ancient Hindu texts. It is not the same as modern cocaine, LSD, or opium, although the fictional substance combines intoxicating, tranquilizing, and mood-altering qualities.