Three basic laws establish offense definitions and penalties and cover all aspects of drug trafficking as well as drug possession. Until recently, drug consumption itself has not been punishable. Marijuana accounts for 63 percent of the drugs in Swedish criminal proceedings, and possession is the most common offense. Relatively few serious drug offenses occur, and drug offenses are not increasing among younger age groups. However, the mass media and other factors have influenced public knowledge and opinion about drug abuse, often producing misconceptions. Agreement exists that reducing drug consumption is desirable, yet drug abuse has not increased in the past 5 years even without the criminalization of consumption. Either legalization or imposing penalties for consumption would be undesirable based on current research knowledge. Figure, tables and 12 references.