The illegal drug trade on social media : Does social media increase the use of drugs among young people?

Abstract: Background: Young people is associated with a significant increase in risky health behaviors, such as substance use and behavioral addictions. Previous research suggests that social media is increasingly being used for illegal drug trade. Objectives: To investigate how social media platforms are used for the illegal drug trade, and whether there is evidence that social media have increased drug use among young people. Method: A systematic literature review was conducted including literature from 2010 and onwards. Results: Findings show that public platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are used for advertising illegal drugs, whilst private platforms such as Wickr and Snapchat are used for arranging transactions. There is no evidence that social media causes increased use of drugs among young people. Instead, the findings were highlighting factors that are associated with an increased risk of usage. Conclusions: Public platforms are used for advertising and private platforms are used for arranging transactions. There are indications, but no direct evidence, that social media increases the use of drugs among young people.