Net trafficking a boon for drug addicts

03 февраля, 2003
02/02/2003 Addicts of a powerful anti-depressant are using the Internet to exchange information that allows them easier access to the drug, the Mainichi has learned. Mainichi Daily News via NewsEdge Corporation : 02/02/2003 Addicts of a powerful anti-depressant are using the Internet to exchange information that allows them easier access to the drug, the Mainichi has learned. Web sites inform addicts of Ritalin, a powerful psychostimulant with effects similar to speed, how to fake prescriptions for the drug and offer clues to the identities of chemists who "easily" prescribe it. Addiction to the drug used mostly to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is becoming rampant in Japan and authorities are being urged to crack down on its proliferation. Web sites dedicated to drug addicts began popping up as more people started using the Internet in the late '90s. Many sites were dedicated to Ritalin alone. Some Web pages list the initials of physicians who apparently prescribe the drug with few questions asked, as well as the name of the district where their clinic is located. Some sites offer information about how to trick a physician into diagnosing depression, while others provide information about methods to use the drug that will heighten its effects. Some contributors to sites, often calling themselves the "Ritalers,"outline details of their experience using the drug. Other sites have competitions to see who can consume the greatest quantity. The Internet is also proving to be a vital forum for Ritalin abusers, who use Web sites to arrange for drug swaps. "Many people use the Internet to get information about the types of drugs they want," a Tokyo woman addicted to Ritalin said. Growing numbers of forged prescriptions have also been reported. "With more color copying machines around, forgeries have been increasing for the past three years," a Tokyo Metropolitan Government health official said. In January last year, a boy used forgeries to secure from 10 drugstores massive amounts of Ritalin. He was sent to the family court for violating drug laws. As he had consumed 10 times the prescribed amount of the drug, he permanently damaged parts of his stomach and bowels. He was also plagued by hallucinations. Copyright 2003. All Rights Reserved. Financial Times Information Limited - Asia Africa Intelligence Wire <> << Copyright ©2003 Financial Times Limited, All Rights Reserved >>
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