He stated, 'in substance' [='in essence', 'essentially'], that it is not his fault and he will not pay for damages.
These rumors have no 'substance'. = These rumors are 'without substance'. [=these rumors are not true]
Codeine is a 'controlled substance'. [=a drug that you need permission from a doctor to use]
(..) I'm going to whale on my pecks, and then I'm going to do my back. I see you're smoking pot now. I... I'm so glad. I think using illegal psychotropic substances... is a very positive example to set for our daughter. You're one to talk, you bloodless, money-grubbing freak. Uh... Lester! (..)1999 American Beauty