Glossary

Any type of drug that the federal government has categorized as having a higher-than-average potential for abuse or addiction. Such drugs are divided into categories based on their potential for abuse or addiction. Controlled substances range from illegal street drugs to prescription medications.

The Office of Controlled Substances of Health Canada regulates the distribution of controlled substances in Canada, including those substances used by individuals and health care facilities for legitimate scientific or health reasons. The governing federal legislation includes the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Narcotic Control Regulations, Part G (Controlled Drugs) of the Food and Drug Regulations and Benzodiazepines and Other Targeted Substances Regulations.