FIGHTING DRUGS WITH FACTS

The province has unveiled a new strategy to combat the use of
methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, in B.C. Abuse of this drug is
not yet a major concern, but the number of users is growing, in part
because it is cheap and easy to produce.

It's difficult to say how much practical effect the new strategy will have.
Susan Brice, the minister of state for mental heath and addiction services,
has released a package of information that seems obvious rather than inspired.

The problem, it appears, lies in the deceptive niche occupied by
methamphetamine in the world of illicit drugs. Many users believe --
incorrectly -- that the drug is safer than cocaine or crack heroin.

The government's strategy is to bring the true facts in front of potential
users, in hope that dispelling illusions will scare them away.

So the minister is promising a public information campaign, targeting
school systems, correctional centres and community agencies. Pharmacies
will be warned about the sale of over-the-counter ingredients used to
produce the drug.

Resource material will be produced to warn pregnant women of harmful
effects on the unborn fetus, and on-line advice about diagnostic and
treatment procedures will be offered to school counsellors, ambulance
workers and medical staff.

Given how easy it is to manufacture the drug, perhaps a strategy based on
dampening demand rather than halting supply is the only realistic option.
Yet trying to alter the mindset of addicts who turn to methamphetamine as
an escape from heroin or cocaine may be an exercise in futility.

After several decades of the "war on drugs," we need a fundamental rethink
of our strategy.