Drug Education to School Children: does it really work?

Summary Despite the great efforts made by law enforcement agencies around the world, the evidence is that illicit substances are becoming more easily available. Increasing emphasis is being put on prevention by education. This review examines and evaluates some of the currently used drug education approaches and programmes. The evidence so far indicates that some programmes had limited effectiveness; most had major shortcomings, and there is little to choose between them. Certain aspects of the evaluated educational approaches have some potential This review also discusses a possible way of combining these aspects in a school‐based educational programme.