FOCUS AREAS

Internet Drugs

Drug Strategies was the first organization to look at the potential impact the internet could have on illegal sales of opioids. The Drug Strategies website became a resource for learning more about the new and rapidly evolving issue.

The Internet’s Impact on Opioid Access

The Internet, now woven into the fabric of our daily lives, revolutionized everything from communications to commerce. Search engines and social media have influenced how individuals seek information and resources on dealing with drug abuse but have also changed the way drug users and dealers find both prescription opioids and illicit drugs, such as fentanyl.

Drug Strategies, an early pioneer in addressing drug policies, treatment, and prevention, was the first to look at the potential impact the Internet could have on illegal supplies of opioids. 

Beginning in 2005, a group of distinguished private business leaders and key government officials convened at the Harvard Law School to develop new strategies to curtail internet drug trafficking to youth. Topics included internet regulation, online advertising, payment transfers, delivery services, U.S. and international law, and prevention initiatives. 

Understanding the digital landscape and its impact on the drug market has proven to be a critical issue to this day and Drug Strategies was on the leading edge.

Below you will find information about the efforts of Drug Strategies to understand and address the emerging issues of illegal drug sales on the Internet.

  • To learn more about the trailblazing 2005 strategy and development of the “Keep Internet Neighbors Safe” Initiative, click here.

  • For more about the final recommendations from the “Keep Internet Neighbors Safe” Initiative, click here to read the Policy White Paper.

  • For more information on non-medical use of prescription drugs and availability over the internet, click here to read Drug Strategies’ 2005 review of the research literature.

  • Click here to read an op-ed from Drug Strategies President Mathea Falco and Harvard Law School Professor Phillip Heymann on this issue published in the Washington Post.

  • Click here to read Drug Strategies July 26, 2006 U.S. House Testimony

  • Click here to read Drug Strategies May 16, 2007 U.S. Senate Testimony