HEROIN USAGE DECLINING, COCAINE ON THE RISE: REPORT

The New South Wales Premier, Bob Carr, has warned that the increasing level
of cocaine addiction in the state is more dangerous than heroin and may
lead to more violent crime.

Mr Carr yesterday revealed that a soon to be released study on the effects
of the "heroin drought" shows heroin use is declining and cocaine use is on
the rise, along with other psycho-stimulants, such as amphetamines.

He says the effect of this trend could be even more costly to the community
than heroin.

People with a dependency on cocaine and amphetamines are often highly
aggressive and display psychotic symptoms such as paranoia.

He says in this respect, it is different to heroin and more dangerous.

"It can lead to more violent crime

"And unlike heroin dependency, which can be treated with the drug
methadone, there are no proven pharmacological treatments available for
cocaine, or amphetamine addiction."

Heroin Trials

Meanwhile, Premier Carr has again ruled out a heroin prescription trial for
the state despite federal Labor leader Kim Beazley leaving the door open on
the issue.

Mr Beazley this week said he was prepared to give the states or territories
support if they wanted state-based heroin prescription trials, saying it is
important to look at measures that keep people alive.

But Mr Carr remains firmly opposed, arguing there are a number of practical
difficulties with such a trial.