We provide three examples of how addiction stigma is sanctioned: (a) discrimination against people with addictions is often legal; (b) public health communications frequently use stigma to promote prevention; (c) some programmes, such as ‘12 steps’ promote self-stigma. The implications of sanctioned stigma for stigma-change programmes are then discussed. You can request a copy of this article by replying to this email. Please ensure you are clear which article you are requesting.