Smith says methadone not the only option for drug addicts

18/12/07

Margaret Smith MSP has warned the Scottish Government away from becoming overly reliant on the methadone prescription programme.

Official figures published today show that prescribing rates for methadone have risen by 35% over the last five years.

Commenting, Mrs Smith said:

“These figures show a significant rise in the rate of methadone prescriptions. 

“I believe that methadone has a role in drug rehabilitation. I do, however, recognise that not everyone is suitable for methadone, which is why I support a whole package of measures to rehabilitate addicts.

“The Scottish Government must ensure that this increase in methadone prescriptions is not indicative of a shift away from our preferred option of a multi faceted approach to tackling drug addiction.”