The Sources of Abused Substances

Substance Photo by Prem Pal Singh from Pexels

A former supervisory special agent of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Brian Shanahan worked with the agency for 20 years and was part of numerous investigations into domestic and international drug trafficking and money laundering. Brian Shanahan’s role in dismantling criminal organizations consistently earned him outstanding evaluations and resulted in several awards and commendations for his service in the DEA.The DEA has many different divisions aimed at curtailing drug abuse in all its forms. One is the Diversion Control Division, which investigates and prevents the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and legitimately sourced chemicals to ensure a continued supply for medical and commercial needs.

Contrary to popular belief, the most abused substances are prescription drugs and legitimately manufactured drugs. When these get diverted from lawful purposes, they enter the illegal trade market, and the DEA is forced to intervene. The Diversion Control Division also offers many programs to help institutions and organizations control the illicit drug trade.