Even though the context related to the use of psychotropic drugs in Brazil is still somewhat unknown, available studies point to alcohol, tobacco and some psychotropic medications as the most used drugs and as responsible for the highest indexes of problems in our population. However, the increasing consumption of cocaine over the years is unquestionable, as well as the increase of a series of associated problems, including violence. As far as possible interventions in this scenario are concerned, the need for complementary preventive measures has been stressed. Although the repressive approach has been highlighted in the last decades, studies have pointed out to the limitations of this kind of intervention. The different levels of psychotropic drugs use prevention are presented in this study, along with comments on the main approaches used and how they have been implemented in Brazil.
Psychotropic; Prevention; Drug Abuse; Public Policies