HEALTH DEPARTMENT PROMOTING PROGRAM TO HELP DRUG ADDICTS

Reducing Harm: The plan aims to help addicts through substitute drugs
and rehabilitation and will be implemented nationwide on July 1

The Department of Health is expected to broaden the scope of its Harm
Reduction Program for drug addicts starting on July 1, supported by
the Cabinet's allocation of NT$81 million (US$2.5 million) from its
second reserved budget.

The Harm Reduction Program will include a clean-needle project,
expand HIV examination and offer substitute treatment for drug addicts.

Clean needles

According to a health department press release issued on Monday, it
will offer clean needles to drug users under the supervision of local
health offices around the country to prevent possible AIDS and
hepatitis infection caused by sharing needles.

However, addicts who receive clean needles must undergo long-term
drug rehabilitation counseling, it said.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC), an active supporter of the
project, had implemented the project on a trial basis between August
and December last year.

With the Cabinet's approval of the budget, the CDC expects that the
clean-needle project can be implemented nationwide soon.

Substitute

The CDC added that it would offer drug addicts Methadone, a synthetic
opioid usually used in the treatment of drug addiction.

Taken orally, Methadone is said to be able to change an addict's
dependence on certain drugs and reduce the risk of contracting
diseases through injections.

The Department of Health said that the substitute treatment could
serve as a public support system through which drug addicts can
receive complete physical and psychological assistance.

Additionally, the department said it would establish a drug-free
recovery environment for those who are willing to quit the habit.

"[They can] change their lifestyles and personality, learn how to
cope with pressure, quit the habit and start a new life," the
department's statement said.

International base

According to the department, the Harm Reduction Program is based on
the AIDS prevention programs of the WHO and the UN.

Many countries such as Australia, the UK and the US have successfully
enforced similar plans to reduce the harm caused by drugs to
individuals, families and society.

Drug addicts will not have to run the risk of finding drugs illegally
if they join the substitute treatment scheme, the CDC said.

Methadone is said to be most effective in treating addiction to drugs
like heroin, and in reducing harm caused by sharing needles. Though
some addiction cases were reported, with proper dosage control, it
can help to decrease drug addicts' cravings.

Though used widely in many countries, methadone is only a substitute
treatment, not a cure for drug addiction, the statement said.