The health department has today published a report recommending the use methadone as a substitute for people with a heroin dependence.

The report, by Dr Karen McElrath of Queen’s University, reviewed various treatment options for those dependent on heroin and how these might be operated in Northern Ireland.

The review supported the use of methadone as a "maintenance treatment" for people dependent on heroin, where "this is an appropriate treatment option".

Also addressed was the issue of 'leakage' of prescribed methadone to those for whom it was not intended and discusses a number of ways in which such diversion can be minimised.

The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Henrietta Campbell said: “The number of problem heroin users in Northern Ireland has grown over recent years and, with this growth, the subject of substitute therapy as an option for those presenting for treatment has become a significant issue.

"The department has considered the review carefully and agrees with the central thrust of Dr McElrath’s recommendations. Given the potential risks attached to substitute prescribing discussed in the review – for example the consequences of diversion and subsequent unauthorised or accidental use – the Department has qualified its response in a number of areas.”

Jo Daykin, the NI Drug and Alcohol Strategy Co-ordinator, welcomed the Report saying: “Although the use of substitute maintenance therapies for heroin dependence is permitted in Northern Ireland it has not been used on any significant scale.

"It is therefore important to ensure that services are delivered appropriately in order to maintain public confidence. The Department will shortly establish an Implementation Group to oversee the development of structures to support those practitioners dealing with clients for whom substitute therapy is appropriate.

The report was commissioned by the Drug and Alcohol Information and Research Unit of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.

(GMcG)