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Pharmacists should play a greater role in preventing substance use disorders (SUDs), supporting early intervention and reducing harms associated with the non-medicinal use of psychoactive substances, according to a new Statement of Policy released today by FIP. The statement reflects the latest evidence on prevention, treatment support and evidence-informed harm reduction. It recognises substance use disorders as a major public health challenge and positions pharmacists as essential members of multidisciplinary teams working to improve health outcomes while reducing stigma and barriers to care.
"Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals and are well positioned to identify risks early, provide trusted advice, support safer medicine use and connect people with appropriate care before preventable harm occurs,” said Nadia Al Mazrouei, co-chair of the policy committee.
The policy statement, replacing FIP's 2018 Statement of Policy on reducing harm associated with drugs of abuse, adopts a prevention-first, person-centred approach grounded in public health, human rights and social justice. It highlights pharmacists' contributions across the continuum of care—from discouraging the non-medicinal use of psychoactive substances obtained through medical pathways and preventing medicine-related SUDs, to supporting treatment, overdose prevention and evidence-informed harm reduction services where permitted.
The statement calls for coordinated action across health and social care, including removing barriers to pharmacist-delivered services, expanding access to overdose prevention interventions such as naloxone where appropriate, and investing in education, digital infrastructure and sustainable remuneration.
This statement recognises that pharmacists can make a meaningful contribution not only through treatment support, but also by preventing problems before they develop, empowering patients and strengthening integrated care pathways within their communities,” said Andrew Gray, co-chair of the policy committee.