SHORTAGE AND HIGH PRICE OF HEROIN HAVE BENEFITS

Research shows that availability and accessibility are vital factors in the
social impact of heroin use. The current shortage of supply and increases
in price will have the following effects:

- - Many people who are using heroin will stop.

- - Many people who have stopped using heroin will not resume use.

- - Many people who might have tried heroin will not.

- - Those dependent on methadone will continue to use it.

The overall effect will be that fewer people will be using heroin and
consequently fewer people will die from overdose or other health problems
associated with heroin use.

We cannot dismiss the negative consequences of the present situation,
including the health effects of injecting substitute chemicals, the rise in
desperation of those unable to stop using, and the inevitable rise in
overdoses when supply returns (usually at a higher grade).

This possibility does not justify calls by some to decriminalise heroin use
or ease up on efforts to restrict supply. The shortage will save many
lives, not to mention the other destructive effects of heroin addiction on
individuals, their families and society at large.

Ross Colquhoun, Clinical psychologist, Addiction Treatment Australasia,
Edgecliff, March 12.