Every field of study has technical terms that are used by people within that field. Newcomers to the field may not be familiar with the terminology used by others and may find themselves unsure of what certain words and terms mean. This is where a Glossary comes in handy. This Glossary is designed to help both students and teachers understand new or unfamiliar vocabulary or specialized terminology in this field of study.

Learn about the increasing concern that certain germs such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are becoming more resistant to antibiotics, resulting in fewer effective antibiotics.

Visit the Drug Product Database to find product-specific information on drugs approved for use in Canada.

Learn how health products offered for sale in Canada are evaluated and monitored for safety, effectiveness and quality.

Emergency contraception (EC), sometimes referred to as the "morning after pill", is a method of preventing an unintended pregnancy. It can be used up to 72 hours after unprotected sex or if there has been a contraceptive failure, such as a condom breaking, or missed birth control pills. In Canada, EC is sold under the name "Plan B". It is a hormonal method, similar to birth control pills, but taken in different doses.

Find out why Hormone Replacement Therapy, used to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, can have significant risks.

Learn how laser eye surgery can correct vision and replace glasses or contact lenses.

Link to information on medical devices, including public warnings and advisories.

Visit the Natural Health Products Directorate, whose mission is to ensure that all Canadians have ready access to natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality.

Access the Patent Register to find an alphabetical listing of medicines and the associated patents, patent expiry dates and other related information.

Discover the growing evidence that improper disposal of drugs and health products may have a harmful effect on the environment.

The term STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) is now commonly used in the place of STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease). STI is more encompassing, including infections that may be asymptomatic. The term STI is used more frequently on this site but please note that the term STD may still be used in some links and earlier publications.

In Canada some of the highest rates and increase in STIs are in young people ages 15 to 24. If you are having sex, or thinking about having sex, you need to know how to avoid sexually transmitted infections.

Certain drugs can cause serious or occasionally life-threatening effects if consumed in combination with grapefruit or its juice.

The Tobacco Control Programme (TCP) monitors and analyses change in tobacco consumption patterns, public attitudes, retailer behaviour to youth access restrictions, industry practices and the product in support of TCP's programs and mandate.