Health Canada's Drug Analysis Platform
Health Canada’s Drug Analysis Service (DAS) and Cannabis Laboratory (CL) analyze samples submitted by law enforcement agencies and public health partners across Canada to support investigations, monitor new and emerging trends, and inform public health and safety responses.
- Last updated: 2026-07-16
Drug Classification
Health Canada’s Drug Analysis Service (DAS) and Cannabis Laboratory (CL) have developed a standardized drug classification framework to support the organization and interpretation of DAS data. This framework is now applied across multiple sections of the data platform to help users filter and explore data by pharmacological class and subclass.
By making the classification system and corresponding substance list publicly available, DAS and CL aim to support public health professionals, forensic scientists, and data specialists in standardizing laboratory results and surveillance products for routine monitoring and early warning systems.
The framework was developed using an evidence-based approach and aligns with international classification efforts led by the U.S. White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Method for substance classification
To classify individual substances, the HC DAS and CL reviewed existing pharmacological classification frameworks from ONDCP, EUDA and UNODC. Differences in classification frameworks were resolved, and new classes were introduced to capture previously uncategorized psychoactive substances of public health concern and to improve the granularity of the classification framework. Definitions were developed for each class. The classification framework proposed by the HC DAS and CL consists of 10 pharmacological classes. There are additional subclasses to categorize non-psychoactive substances that are of concern such as cutting agents, precursor chemicals and intermediate reagents.
Validation and considerations
The validation of this framework and substance classification list was supported by our national partners within the Health Portfolio. This list of substance classification has been validated in consultation with pharmacologists and chemists. The following considerations should be taken into account when using the list. A single substance may have multiple effects, and the different effects may be dose dependent. Structural subclasses may fall within several pharmacological classes. Substance classification may be revised in light of new evidence. While the HC DAS and CL classification is based on other classifications, it should be emphasized that each international organization may slightly differ, based on regional specificity.
HC DAS and CL classification framework for psychoactive substances in the illicit drug market
Tap the Pharmacological Classes to see more information.
Table 1. HC DAS and CL classification framework for psychoactive substances in the illicit drug market
|
Pharmacological class |
Definition |
Subclass* |
Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Stimulants |
Stimulants increase the activity of the central nervous system. They induce wakefulness and euphoria. Footnote 1 |
Amphetamines / methamphetamines |
Lisdexamfetamine; 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA); 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) |
|
Cathinones |
3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-methylcathinone; N-Ethyl-heptedrone; 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone |
||
|
Ephedrine-type |
Ephedrine; Pseudoephedrine; Phenylephrine |
||
|
Aminoindanes |
2-Aminoindane; 5-Methoxy-2-aminoindane; N-Methyl-2-aminoindane |
||
|
Arylpiperidines and benzylpiperidines |
4-Benzylpiperidine; Methylphenidate; 4-Fluoromethylphenidate |
||
|
Tropanes (stimulant) |
Cocaine |
||
|
Arylpiperazines and benzylpiperazines |
Benzylpiperazine; Methylbenzylpiperazine; Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine |
||
|
Phenethylamines (stimulant) |
Fencamfamin; N-methyl-2-phenylpropan-1-amine (Phenpromethamine) |
||
|
Other stimulants |
Benocyclidine; Bromantane; Aminorex |
||
|
Hallucinogens |
Hallucinogens cause disturbances of perception (visual, olfactory, auditory, tactile) and behavior in ways that cannot be characterized simply as sedative or stimulant effects. Footnote 1 Footnote 3 |
LSD and analogues |
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD); 1-propanoyl-lysergic acid diethylamide (1P-LSD); 1-cyclopropionyl-N,N-diethyllysergamide (1cP-LSD) |
|
Tryptamines |
5-Methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine; Psilocybin; N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) |
||
|
Tropanes (hallucinogen) |
Atropine; Scopolamine |
||
|
Phenethylamines (hallucinogen) |
2C-B; 2C-E; Mescaline |
||
|
Other Hallucinogens |
Harmine; Tropicamide; Lorcaserin |
||
|
Antipsychotics |
Antipsychotics are primarily used to treat psychiatric disorders with or without psychotic symptoms (delusions, hallucinations). Footnote 3 Footnote 4 |
Atypical antipsychotics |
Aripiprazole; Quetiapine; Olanzapine |
|
Typical antipsychotics |
Acepromazine, Haloperidol, Mepazine |
||
|
Cannabinoids |
Cannabinoids are either plant-derived, synthetic, or semi-synthetic compounds that have affinity for and activity at cannabinoid receptors. They produce a variety of effects, including euphoria (feeling “high”), a sense of well-being, and drowsiness. Footnote 5 |
Cannabinoids & derivatives |
Cannabis; Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); Cannabidiol (CBD); 9(R)-Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) |
|
Synthetic cannabinoids and cannabimimetics |
N-(1-(aminocarbonyl)-2-methylpropyl)-1-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (ADB-FUBINACA); Nabilone; JWH-018 |
||
|
Dissociatives |
Dissociatives produce a mental state in which a person feels out of control and disconnected from their body and environment. Footnote 6 |
PCP and analogues |
Rolicyclidine; Phencyclidine (PCP); 3-Methoxyphencyclidine (3-MeO-PCP) |
|
Ketamine and analogues |
2-Fluorodeschloroketamine; Ketamine; Fluorexetamine (FXE) |
||
|
Inhalants |
Amyl nitrite; Isoamyl nitrite; Nitrous Oxide |
||
|
Other dissociatives |
Dextrometorphan; Diphenidine; Salvinorin A |
||
|
Opioids |
Opioids interact with the opioid receptors. They may be natural constituents, derivatives from the opium poppy, or synthetic substances. Opioids produce a variety of effects, including analgesia and euphoria. Footnote 7 |
Fentanyl and analogues |
Fentanyl; para-Fluorofentanyl; Carfentanil |
|
Opiates |
Amyl nitrite; Isoamyl nitrite; Nitrous Oxide |
||
|
Nitazenes |
Metonitazene; Protonitazene; Isotonitazene |
||
|
Orphines |
Brorphine; Cychlorphine |
||
|
Utopioids |
U-47700; U-50211 |
||
|
Other opioids |
Methadone; Tramadol |
||
|
Sedatives/Hypnotics |
Sedatives/Hypnotics decrease the activity of the central nervous system. They have a calming effect, can reduce anxiety, and at a higher doses can induce and maintain sleep. Footnote 8 |
Benzodiazepines |
Alprazolam; Bromazolam; Etizolam |
|
Barbiturates |
Butalbital; Pentobarbital; Phenobarbital |
||
|
GHB and its prodrugs |
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB); Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL); 1,4-Butanediol |
||
|
Quinazolinones |
Etaqualone; Methaqualone; Methylmethaqualone |
||
|
Antihistamines (first-generation) |
Cyproheptadine; Hydroxyzine; Promethazine |
||
|
Gabapentinoids |
Gabapentin; Pregabalin |
||
|
Muscle relaxants |
Cyclobenzaprine; Methocarbamol; Rocuronium |
||
|
Other sedatives/hypnotics |
Etomidate; Medetomidine; Xylazine; Zolpidem |
||
|
Cognitive enhancers |
Cognitive enhancers or ‘’Nootropics’’ are a diverse group of substances whose action is thought to improve learning and memory, especially in cases where these functions are impaired. Footnote 9 |
Nootropics |
N-(1-(phenylacetyl)prolyl)glycine ethyl ester (Noopept); Vinpocetine; Phenylpiracetam |
|
Physical performance enhancers |
Physical performance enhancers are used to improve or change the physical appearance, and/or increase physical strength and performance in sport. This also includes substances used to enhance sexual behavior and performance. Footnote 10 Footnote 11 |
Sexual performance enhancers |
Tadalafil; Sildenafil; Vardenafil |
|
Estrogen receptor modulators |
Clomiphene; Tamoxifen |
||
|
Androgen receptor modulators |
Andarine; Enobosarm; Ligandrol |
||
|
Anabolic steroids |
Metandienone; Stanozolol; Testosterone enanthate |
||
|
Antidepressants |
Antidepressants are used to treat depression and other mental health conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, social phobia, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Footnote 12 |
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) |
Citalopram; Fluoxetine; Vortioxetine |
|
Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) |
Duloxetine; Levomilnacipran; Venlafaxine |
||
|
Atypical Antidepressants |
Mirtazapine; Trazodone |
||
|
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA) |
Amitriptyline; Amineptine; Doxepin |
||
|
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) class |
Pheniprazine; Selegiline |
||
|
Other antidepressants |
Maprotiline; Lanicemine; Buspirone |
||
|
Other |
This class includes cutting agents, precursor chemicals and intermediate reagents, among others, that may have licit or illicit use on their own or formed during production. |
Precursors / key intermediates |
4-Anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (4-ANPP); α-methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyphenylpropionamide (MMDPPA); 1-Phenyl-2-propanone(P2P) |
|
Reagents |
Hypophosphorous acid; Red Phosphorous; |
||
|
Solvents |
2-propanol; Acetone |
||
|
Impurities / metabolites / byproducts |
1-benzyl-3-methylnaphthalene; 1-methylamino-1-phenylpropane |
||
|
Cutting agents |
Caffeine; Dimethylsulphone; Phenacetin |
||
|
Opioid antagonists |
Diprenorphine; Naloxone |
||
|
Mood stabilizers |
Levetiracetam; Topiramate; Valproic acid |
||
|
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
Ibuprofen; Celecoxib; Naproxen |
||
|
Antihistamines (second generation) |
Loratadine; Terfenadine |
||
|
Other (drugs) prescription, otc, or illicit |
Amlodipine; Ciprofloxacin; Semaglutide |
||
|
Other non-drugs |
Arsenic; Aspartame; Gelatin; Menthol |
* Subclass is a more precise classification based on either "effect", "structure" or "usage" of substances.
Acknowledgments
- U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy
- U.S. Custom and Border Protection
- European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), formerly known as European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA).
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Additional resources
Download the list of classified substances (.csv) established according to HC DAS and CL Framework.
Contact Information
To submit a request or comment, please contact HC DAS and CL Data Intelligence and Harm Reduction Unit (DIHRU) by email at dascl-info-sadlc@hc-sc.gc.ca.
References
- Footnote 1
-
J. M. Ritter, R. J. Flower, G. Henderson, Y. Kong Loke, D. MacEwan, E. Robinson and J. Fullerton, 'Section 4. Nervous System,' in Rang & Dale's Pharmacology, Elsevier, 2023.
- Footnote 2
-
H. Kalant, 'The pharmacology and toxicology of ''ecstasy'' (MDMA) and related drugs,' Canadian Medical Association Journal, vol. 165, no. 7, pp. 917-28, 2001.
- Footnote 3
-
A. L. Halberstadt, 'Recent advances in the neuropsychopharmacology of serotonergic hallucinogens,' Behavioural Brain Research, vol. 277, pp. 99-120, 2015.
- Footnote 4
-
L. Stevens and K. Chokhawala, 'Antipsychotic Medications,' 26 February 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519503/. [Accessed 23 May 2024].
- Footnote 5
-
J. G. Harry, 'Chapter One: Cannabinoids,' in Advances in Neurotoxicology, Elsevier, 2022, pp. 1-48.
- Footnote 6
-
National Institute on Drug Abuse, U.S., 'Research Report Series: Hallucinogens and Dissociative Drugs,' 2014.
- Footnote 7
-
T. Yaksh and M. Wallace, 'Chapter 20: Opioids, Analgesia, and Pain Management,' in Goodman & Gilman's: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13e, McGraw Hill / Medical, 2017.
- Footnote 8
-
J. A. Trevor, 'Chapter 22: Sedative¬Hypnotic Drugs,' in Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14e, K. B.G, Ed., McGraw-Hill Education, 2017.
- Footnote 9
-
M. Malík and P. Tlustoš, 'Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs,' Nutrients, vol. 14, no. 16, p. 3367, 2022.
- Footnote 10
-
National Institute on Drug Abuse, 'Anabolic Steroids and Other Appearance and Performance Enhancing Drugs (APEDs),' May 2023. [Online]. Available: https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/anabolic-steroids. [Accessed 23 May 2024].
- Footnote 11
-
B. C. Harte, 'Recreational Use of Erectile Dysfunction Medications and ItsAdverse Effects on Erectile Function in Young Healthy Men:The Mediating Role of Confidence in Erectile Ability,' The Journal of Sexual Medecine, vol. 9, no. 7, pp. 1852-1859, July 2012.
- Footnote 12
-
A. J. Trevor, B. G. Katzung, M. Kruidering-Hall and S. B. Masters, 'Chapter 30. Antidepressants,' in Katzung & Trevor’s Pharmacology: Examination & Board Review, 10e, The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2013.
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