In part due to disruptions in supply stemming from the COVID\u002D19 pandemic, street drugs are increasingly laced with toxic or unknown ingredients, resulting in…
British Columbia, at the epicentre of a drug poisoning crisis that has already killed more than 32,000 Canadians since 2016, last week began a three-year pilot program in which people carrying less than 2.5 grams of drugs such as meth and heroin will not be prosecuted.Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion delivered straight to your inbox at 7 a.m., Monday to Friday.By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.
In part, it reflects a broader shift away from criminal charges as a deterrent to drug use and a move toward treating addiction as a health issue instead. Studies show the programs can be successful. A 2021 study by the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use of 42 participants in a Vancouver program that distributed hydromorphone tablets — an opioid — found it reduced street drug use and overdose risk and improved health, well-being and pain management.
Under that approach, people with addictions are encouraged to enter residential treatment centres and wean off substances. British Columbia has been at the forefront of trying new methods to address the crisis, including opening North America’s first official, sanctioned supervised drug consumption site in 2003. Its latest program is being closely watched elsewhere.
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