RAND Drug Policy Research Center
Addressing today’s most pressing substance use issues. Informing the drug policy of the future.
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Substance use and efforts to influence it are the subject of serious policy debates around the world.
Since 1989, the RAND Drug Policy Research Center has conducted research to help decisionmakers in the United States and abroad address issues involving alcohol and other drugs. In doing so, the Center brings an objective and data-driven perspective to this often emotional and fractious policy arena.
Our team of experts includes those from many fields such as medicine, statistics, economics, psychology, sociology, law, criminal justice, decision science, and public policy. We are all committed to improving the health, social, and economic well-being of populations and communities throughout the world.
Research Highlights
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Cannabis Legalization
The cannabis policy landscape is dramatically changing. RAND publications on cannabis and these policy changes are informing debates in the U.S. and throughout the world.
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Opioids
Opioids play a major role in pain relief, overdose deaths, and substance use disorders. RAND research on prescription opioids, heroin, and illegally produced synthetic opioids like fentanyl provides critical insights for these complex policy discussions.
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Psychedelics
Psychedelic substances have long been touted as holding promise for treating severe and chronic forms of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). RAND publications on psychedelics are informing the policy landscape in the United States and throughout the world.
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