Drug use patterns vary significantly by age, with adolescents showing use levels comparable to or higher than the general population, for most substances.
Globally, the use of amphetamines, cocaine and "ecstasy" is similar or higher among adolescents aged 15-16 than among the general population aged 15- 64, though patterns vary by region. For example, cannabis use is higher among adolescents in Europe than in the general population, but lower in the Americas. On the other hand, the use of amphetamines and "ecstasy" is higher among adolescents than adults across all regions, although the differences are mostly small.
In several high-income countries, particularly in North America, Europe and Australia, adolescent use of alcohol, tobacco and cannabis has generally declined in recent years. This trend has however not been observed in Canada.
At the same time, new concerns are emerging, including the increasing use of e-cigarettes and vaping products and rising use of some other substances among adolescents.
