Danny Kruger MP submits response to Council of Europe paper on ‘Addiction to Prescribed Medicines’

In 2013, Jim Dobbin MP, then Chair of the APPG for Involuntary Tranquilliser Addiction (the predecessor to the current APPG for Prescribed Drug Dependence), submitted a motion to the Council of Europe Committee on Social Affairs, Health and Sustainable Development. The motion aimed to:

“Explore the current situation in Europe regarding involuntary addiction to prescription medicines, examine examples of good practice, and make recommendations on how to ensure that patients who need these medicines receive them; prevent unnecessary or inappropriate use; promote alternative treatments where possible; minimize risks; and provide adequate support to those affected by addiction.”

An expert exchange of views took place in Paris in September 2019, and a provisional report was released on December 1, 2021, as detailed on their website. This report is scheduled for debate by the Assembly in March.

While the report’s overall recommendations are beneficial, it fails to accurately distinguish between addiction and dependence. Danny Kruger MP has submitted a letter on behalf of the APPG for Prescribed Drug Dependence to the rapporteur, Joseph O’Reilly, urging a clearer recognition of these differences and a more focused emphasis on the need for dedicated, safe withdrawal services for individuals dependent on prescribed medications.