THE CASE FOR PRESCRIBED HEROIN

I find it extraordinary that there has been so little discussion in
the media and political circles regarding the legalisation of heroin
on prescription.

After World War II, heroin was available on prescription for use in
obstetrics and was a godsend in the relief of pain in childbirth. It
was able to be prescribed for the relief of cough, as linctus heroin.
At that time there was relatively little widespread addiction.

Heroin in reasonable dosage, although addictive, is safer than either
alcohol or tobacco. Alcohol destroys brain cells and smoking causes
lung cancer and other diseases; heroin does none of these.

Safe injecting rooms is a step in the right direction, but why not
supply heroin on prescription and undermine the illegal traffic that
is leading to so much crime?

Dr ROBERT EDWARDS,
North Balwyn