Assessing the Real Dangers of Illicit Drugs: Risk Analysis as the Way Forward?

• NCJ Number: 183805
• Journal: Addiction Research Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: 1999 Pages: 85-90
• Author(s): Ross Coomber
• Date Published: 1999
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: Netherlands
• Note: DCC

Annotation

This paper develops the argument that at the very least there is a need to develop sensitive measures of risk attached to illicit street drugs that are comparable to those used to gauge the relative riskiness of legally produced and dispensed pharmaceuticals.

Abstract

The typical risk analysis for illicit drugs focuses on the potential risks that result from excessive use. Most use of illicit drugs, however, is moderate and occasional. The result of such a measure of riskiness is that many illicit drugs are attributed with a level of riskiness that is not generally congruent with actual risk based on a typical dose and frequency of use. For licit drugs, on the other hand, potential risks based on extended use or on excessive dosage, although often clearly labeled, are played down in practice. There is an assumption that the users of these drugs will take them as prescribed so as to minimize or avoid the risks and side-effects of improper use. Thus, the risks associated with the taking of illicit and licit drugs are assessed by differing standards. This paper proposes that the risks of illicit and licit drugs be measured by the same standards based on frequency of use and dosage. Risk would be measured initially in terms of mortality (based on the average dose of seized or bought samples), and then, as with licit drugs, in terms of other side effects. The advantage of this would be that a league table of relative risk would help inform public and policy debate about the problems presented. The riskiness of illicit drug use also must be gauged against other risks that present themselves in the course of being exposed to and attempting to minimize various risks in life; for example, how the risks associated with the use of illicit drugs compare with the risks of horseback riding, fishing, or participating in rides at carnivals. This relative assessment of risk is essential in the development of fair public safety policies that have the potential for radical government intervention in the name of public safety. 17 references