Tasmanian drug shortage could lead to abuse of other substances

With the state’s borders closed, Tasmania is in the midst of an illicit drug shortage, and it could be causing more harm than good for those with substance abuse issues.

AN ILLICIT drug shortage in Tasmania could lead to the abuse of other substances, a key advocate fears.

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council chief executive Alison Lai said despite less drugs in the state, she was concerned it could actually put people at risk.

“First and foremost it’s important to understand that a person’s drug use is a health issue, and when people are unable to access the drug of their choice, they may seek to switch to other substances, including an increase in alcohol consumption,” she said.

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“It may be that they seek to source their drugs from unknown individuals, putting their health further at risk.”

According to reports, Australians have increased their alcohol consumption under COVID restrictions.

Ms Lai said Tasmanians were no different.

“Now that COVID-19 restrictions are lifting and we start spending less time at home, we anticipate that these drinking levels will start to reduce,” she said.

“Most Tasmanians will be able to self-manage their drinking levels on their own, and this will look different for each person ranging from reducing the amount that they drink, how often or taking a complete break.”

Ms Lai said COVID-19 had increased the risk with all types of drugs.

Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drugs Council chief executive Alison Lai said having less illicit drugs on hand in the state could do more harm than good.

“Any increase in drinking can also put people at risk if they are taking pharmaceutical medications like opioids — for pain — or benzodiazepines — for stress or anxiety,” she said.

“People don’t realise that the leading cause of accidental overdose in Tasmania is from pharmaceutical medications, and the risk increases when alcohol is also consumed.

With travel restrictions in place, Detective Inspector Kate Chambers told the Mercury in May that Tasmania Police was focusing greater attention on mail as the last remaining corridor for drug traffickers.

“At the moment we have this unique opportunity to restrict supply and both specialist investigators and uniform police are doing everything we can to reduce supply,” she said.

Medication has been stolen from a number of Hobart pharmacies in recent months.

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Detective Inspector Michael Smith said the theft of medication from the North Hobart Pharmacy on Saturday was still under investigation.

“Detectives would like to see any dashcam vision between 1:50pm and 2:10pm in the area of the Condell Place carpark and Andrews Street in North Hobart,” he said.

“Using drugs that are not prescribed for you can lead to a serious adverse reaction.”

Anyone with information about the selling of medication can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppers.com.au.

For information or assistance surrounding alcohol or drug use, call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 811 994.