In an enlightening open letter, seventeen medical addictions specialists addressed the federal government regarding the current safe/safer supply programs for opioid addicts in Canada. The specialists questioned the effectiveness of these programs and their impact on the growing number of opioid-related deaths. Opioid overdoses have claimed the lives of over 38,000 Canadians since 2016, despite various government initiatives. The specialists argue that these programs flood the streets with cheap opioids, creating more addicts and diverting vulnerable addicts away from rehabilitation programs.
The safe/safer supply programs aim to provide prescription-grade opioids called hydromorphone to opioid users, with each person receiving eight to ten pills per day. However, these pills can be up to four times as potent as those typically used in hospitals. The experts argue that the high potency of hydromorphone, combined with the practice of crushing and injecting the pills, contributes to the escalating crisis. Additionally, the availability of free opioids in safe supply programs has led to a drop in street prices and subsequent diversion of the pills, potentially reaching children and teenagers in schools.
To address these issues, the specialists propose creating accountability within the system by stopping the unlimited overprescribing of opioids and ensuring supervised consumption. Currently, pills can be obtained without sufficient supervision, leading to potential misuse or sale. They suggest that the government demand supervised consumption or cease funding the safe/safer supply programs entirely.
The letter highlights the existence of differing opinions among addiction specialists in Canada and emphasizes the need to avoid politicizing harm reduction policies. It also mentions the potential consequences faced by those who question the benefits of safe supply programs, including professional repercussions and censorship. Canada’s politicians are urged to consider all perspectives in the safe supply debate to effectively combat the opioid epidemic.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with Ya’ara Saks, the federal minister of Addictions and Mental Health, to respond to these concerns and take appropriate action. The article concludes by stating that the views expressed are the author’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of The Epoch Times.