The development and successful implementation of programmes for the prevention and treatment of drug abuse in Central America and the Caribbean are largely restricted by the limited resources and institutional capacity of countries in the region. In addition, Governments have to strike a balance between competing developmental priorities and the need to adopt drug abuse prevention and treatment measures. However, patterns of abuse and trafficking have continued to shift, requiring Governments in the region to adapt their drug control policies accordingly. Abuse of prescription drugs continues to be the single biggest challenge to drug control efforts in the region.