Exploring Diverse Applications of Multicriteria Decision Analysis in Drug Policy: A Comprehensive Overview.

Introduction: This research explores the extensive applicability of Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) through a comprehensive literature review.

Methods: The investigation, conducted on the EMBASE database, yielded 143 articles, with 15 selected for analysis. Similarly, the review on PUBMED identified 49 articles, leading to the careful selection of 13 pertinent works. In total, our study scrutinized 22 articles, and a thematic analysis of these works revealed three primary areas of MCDA application.

Results: The first thematic focus involves the ranking of damages caused by the use of single or multiple substances. This assessment relies on diverse established criteria, encompassing harm to users and the broader community. A total of five articles contribute to this theme, shedding light on the nuanced perspectives of harm assessment. The second thematic exploration delves into the application of MCDA in evaluating distinct regulatory models for various substances. Thirteen articles investigate the methodology's utility in assessing regulatory frameworks for substances such as MDMA, other stimulants, nicotine products, cannabis, opioids (including heroin), tobacco, and alcohol. The diversity of substances examined underscores the versatility of MCDA in the realm of drug policy. Finally, the third thematic dimension encompasses four articles that critically examine the applicability of MCDA methodology in the field of drug policy. These critiques contribute valuable insights into the limitations, challenges, and potential improvements of employing MCDA within the complex landscape of drug policy.

Conclusion: The results promoted a synthesized overview of these findings, offering a nuanced understanding of MCDA's diverse applications and its role in informing evidence-based decision-making within the intricate landscape of drug policy.