An overview of the main arguments in support of drug prohibition is provided, with emphasis on the argument that distorted information about the addictive potential of various illicit substances has failed to reduce the increasing number of new recruits into the drug habit. Factors that sustain the increasingly lucrative drug trade are discussed, together with the sociopolitical problems associated with the use of marijuana, cocaine, and heroin. The author argues that the drug "war" has been a costly failure that fuels social ills, which in turn perpetuate the causes of drug-related crimes worldwide. The debate on the effectiveness of the current prohibition policy has led to the emergence of three broad alternative proposals. One proposal calls for regulation with taxation, which involves the introduction and application of a mixture of economic and clearly defined fiscal measures on drug supplies similar to those currently applied to control the marketing and consumption of alcohol and cigarettes. Another approach would involve an intensive and ongoing public awareness campaign designed to provide citizens truthful information about drug and drug use. Central to this approach is the imparting of antidrug values to youths and funding for drug treatment and related rehabilitation services. A third approach is legalization, under which all stiff penalties for drug possession and use would be eliminated. Supporters of legalization typically recommend strengthening the role of health institutions in the treatment of drug addiction and the provision of controlled drugs to patients through prescription. 54 notes and references