DOCTORS SUPPORT PRESCRIBING HEROIN TO LONG-TERM USERS

Doctors have supported prescribing heroin to long-term users who have
failed methadone programs.

The recommendation is one of many in a report compiled by the Royal
Australasian College of Physicians.

The report says the recommendation is in response to the inadequate
political response to Australia's drug problem.

The report also calls for trials of supervised injecting facilities.

Physician Dr Richard Larkins says it is time policies were formed in
response to scientific facts.

"International research has shown the drug users who are prescribed heroin,
commit less crime, reduce their existing heroin use and improve in their
social and psychological functioning."

This is a view echoed by Tony Trimingham, who lost his son to a heroin
overdose.

"What we need is evidence-based treatment and evidence-based policies," he said.