§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to issue new guidance for the prescribing of methadone. [2453]
§ Ms JowellGuidelines on clinical management of drug misuse and dependence were last revised by the Department of Health in 1991, and included information on the appropriate prescription and dispensing of methadone to drug misusers. These guidelines are currently being revised by an expert working group chaired by Professor John Strang, the Chief Medical Officer's consultant adviser on drug misuse. The new guidelines, which will include updated advice on the prescribing of methadone based on the latest research evidence, are expected to be issued to all doctors at the end of 1997.