Safe supply: What is it and what is happening in Canada?

Many advocates, including people who use drugs, health care professionals, researchers, policy makers and politicians, argue that a “safe supply” of drugs is urgently needed to address the toxic illicit drug supply. Providing a legal and regulated supply of drugs has the potential to support people who use drugs to stay alive and to live safe and healthy lives. This article will explain what “safe supply” means, discuss developments within the Canadian context and describe some examples of safe supply programs in Canada.