Alcohol and other drug information

This alcohol and other drug information information is written for health professionals. These pages provide links to relevant information and include references to studies and journal articles. The drug categories are updated regularly. Select a drug category to read more.

Alcohol

The social costs of alcohol abuse in Australia in 2004/05 were estimated at over $15 billion; with $2 billion related to medical costs alone.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are minor tranquilisers prescribed for a range of reasons including anxiety relief and to induce sedation.

Cannabis

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug worldwide.

Opiates & opioids

About 350,000 Australians have used heroin, methadone and/or other opioids at sometime in their lives.