Health Canada

It’s important to know the facts about fentanyl and carfentanil exposure and how to minimize any potential risks.

Health Canada has answered questions about access to controlled substances at the federal, provincial and territorial government levels. The answers may help health care providers better understand care options during the COVID-19 pandemic for patients who use drugs. This information could also...

"Bath salts" is the street name for a family of drugs. The short- and long-term effects of “bath salts” are similar to those of: cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), and methamphetamine (meth).

Benzodiazepines are a class of substances often used as sedatives and tranquilizers. Although they are some of the most commonly prescribed medications, there is still a risk of overdose and substance use disorder associated with them.

Illegal drugs and problematic drug or substance use are not new in Canada. However, the opioid crisis has brought to light the devastating effects opioids are having on individuals, families and communities across Canada.

Cocaine and crack are powerful stimulants and highly addictive. Their effects on your physical and mental health can be serious and sometimes fatal.

The Province of British Columbia requested a subsection 56(1) exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). After a thorough assessment, this exemption was granted by the federal Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health to support the province in...

Problematic opioid use is using opioids that are not prescribed to you or using prescribed opioids in a manner not intended or instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. It also includes using illegal opioids.

Safer supply refers to providing prescribed medications as a safer alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply to people who are at high risk of overdose. Safer supply services can help prevent overdoses, save lives, and connect people who use drugs to other health and social services.

Background Document: Public Consultation on Strengthening Canada’s Approach to Substance Use Issues

Details, definitions and explanation of the s. 56(1) exemption on opioids granted under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to adults 18+ in B.C.

Alcohol is the common name for ethanol or ethyl alcohol. Pure ethanol is a clear and colourless liquid. It is the intoxicating substance present at varying levels in alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits.

The Canadian Tobacco and Nicotine Survey (CTNS) 2020 measures the prevalence of cigarette smoking, vaping, alcohol and cannabis use among Canadians aged 15 years and older.

A comprehensive, collaborative, compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy

Links to evidence guiding the Government of Canada's response to the overdose crisis.

The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act is part of the Government’s comprehensive approach to addressing the crisis. It will help encourage Canadians to save a life during an overdose situation.

Call on Opioid Manufacturers and Distributors to Voluntarily Cease Marketing and Advertising of Opioids

Overdose-related deaths and other harms are affecting our friends, families and communities. Addiction is not a choice. It is a treatable medical condition yet many people affected by addiction face stigma.

Stigma is negative attitudes, beliefs or behaviours about or towards a group of people because of their situation in life. It includes discrimination, prejudice, judgment and stereotypes, which can isolate people who use drugs.

Opioids are drugs with pain relieving properties that are used primarily to treat pain.