asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that certain drugs of addiction are not included as such on the poisons list; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy the situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drugs of Addiction.
81.
The more potent drugs of addiction, known as the narcotic drugs, are dealt with by special legislation, namely, the Dangerous Drugs Act, 1934, and the regulations made thereunder, under which their possession is prohibited to all persons who are not authorised to possess them. The question of including them in the poisons list does not, therefore, arise. Regulations are at present being prepared to extend these controls to a number of synthetic narcotic drugs.
The sale to the public of most of the usual drugs of addiction, e.g. amphetamines and barbiturates, is restricted to pharmacists and then only on prescription by virtue of the Medical Preparations (Control of Sale) Regulations, 1966.
The comprehensive regulations under the Poisons Act, 1961, which are in course of preparation will extend controls to a limited number of other substances, not at present marketed in this country, which might be regarded as drugs of addiction.
I am not altogether clear as to what drugs the Deputy has in mind but if he would be a little more explicit I shall be willing to answer any further question he may care to put down.
Is the Minister aware that there are at least seven synthetic drugs of addiction available which, not being on the poisons list, can be repeated ad nauseam for patients and that this could give rise to addiction? I can name seven.
Perhaps the Deputy would particularise.