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Montreal • 2 September 2026
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 the International Pharmaceutical Federation (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.
"Substance use disorders affect individuals, families and communities in every region of the world, yet many people still face significant barriers to accessing timely support," said Prof. Nadia Al Mazrouei, co-chair of the policy committee. "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."
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.
Recognising that substance-related harms are influenced by broader social, economic and environmental factors, the policy calls for coordinated action across health care, social care and community services.
The recommendations urge governments and policymakers to remove unnecessary barriers that limit pharmacists' contributions, including expanding access to overdose prevention interventions such as naloxone where appropriate, supporting collaborative models of care and investing in education, digital infrastructure and sustainable remuneration for pharmacist-delivered services.
"Supporting people affected by substance use disorders requires compassion, collaboration and evidence-based care," said Dr Andrew Gray, co-chair of the policy committee. "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."
Through this policy, FIP reaffirms its commitment to advancing pharmacy's contribution to patient safety, public health and equitable access to care by promoting evidence-informed, person-centred approaches that prevent substance-related harm and improve outcomes for individuals and communities worldwide.
Notes for editors
About FIP
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global body representing over 5.5 million pharmacists, pharmacy educators and pharmaceutical scientists. We work to meet the world's healthcare needs. FIP is a non-governmental organisation that has been in official relations with the World Health Organization since 1948. www.fip.org
PRESS CONTACT
Laila Ghorab
Communications Manager
International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)
Email laila@fip.org