Concerning new research from Otago University suggests alcohol is the most harmful drug in New Zealand.

The first of its kind study ranked alcohol as the most harmful drug for the overall population, followed by methamphetamine, synthetic cannabinoids, and tobacco.

Researcher Dr Rose Crossin says the findings suggest the need for policy reconsideration to reduce overall drug harm.

She questions the current drug policy settings given that a legal drug is the most harmful.

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