Understanding Psychoactive Substances and Substance Use
What Are Psychoactive Substances?
Psychoactive substances are substances that affect the way the brain and body function, influencing thoughts, emotions, perceptions, and behaviour...
A drug test is the scientific analysis of biological samples to determine whether narcotic drugs, psychoactive substances, or their metabolites are present in the body. Samples may include...
Some people are going California sober, meaning they are cutting back on or quitting alcohol or other addictive substances in favor of using marijuana. In theory, the lifestyle choice aims to replace more harmful substances with something...
Every quote in this resource suite has been provided by a person with lived and living experience. We have drawn on this broad collection of unique insights to develop guidance resources that can support others who may want to share their...
The UNODC Early Warning Advisory highlights a continued global expansion of new psychoactive substances (NPS), with nearly 1,400 substances reported worldwide. In 2024 alone, a record number of substances were identified, including over 100...
Background and aims
Clinicians have little guidance on the ideal length of time patients should remain on medication treatment for opioid use disorder (MOUD) before being able to safely discontinue MOUD. This study estimated how...
Source:
Cai, M., Choi, T., Xie, Y., & Al-Aly, Z. (2026). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and risk of substance use disorders among US veterans with type 2 diabetes: Cohort study. BMJ, 392. doi: 10.1136/bmj-2025-086886.
This report highlights a growing concern around stimulant use and related harms in Canada, particularly involving cocaine and methamphetamine. Data from multiple national sources show that stimulant-related deaths have significantly...
The European Union Drugs Agency has released updated data sheets providing a clear and comparable overview of drug-related indicators across six Western Balkan partners under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA). These include...
