WHO launches a single-source repository on drug dependence information

A new repository of all drug dependence technical reports and resources was launched today allowing its audience to source information within a single webpage.

The repository, from WHO’s Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD), is an important resource for health professionals, drug policy experts and policy-makers, as many of the substances reviewed by ECDD have otherwise limited information regarding their public health risk. It represents the only online, freely accessible collection of information and reports on new psychoactive substances and medicines, for medical and scientific use, comprising over 450 substances.

Improving information-sharing with health-care professionals and other experts involved in tackling the world’s drug problems can lead to better awareness on abuse, harms and dependence of psychoactive substances reviewed by ECDD. This can contribute to increased implementation of effective public health responses relating to drugs such as improving detection of substances and clinical treatment of overdose, and other related negative health consequences of drug use. Additionally, this resource is important when sourcing information regarding the therapeutic use of psychoactive drugs.