The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 278 No 7436 p100
27 January 2007

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Parliamentary committee examines drug misuse

Improving treatment of drug misuse was discussed by the Scottish Parliament's health committee on 23 January. The review was triggered by a member's Bill put forward by Rosemary Byrne MSP.

Among the experts called to give evidence was Alex MacKinnon, head of parliamentary and corporate affairs, Scottish Pharmaceutical General Council. Mr MacKinnon told The Journal: “This week’s discussion highlighted the number of issues that need to be examined, and the dichotomous views of the experts.”

Among these were whether methadone should be used to achieve drug-free status or as a long-term maintenance treatment.

“I highlighted community pharmacist’s contribution in methadone supervision, offering health checks and providing social engagement with drug misusers,” he added.