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Doctors Welcome Banning Of Drug
PRESS RELEASE TO: All Health Reporters/Chief
Executives/Press Officers
FROM: Dr Pippa MacKay, NZMA Chairman
DATE: 13 January, 2000
Doctors welcome banning of drug
The health of young New Zealanders should benefit after action was taken today to prevent the abuse of the drug known as Fantasy, the New Zealand Medical Association says.
Minister of Health Annette King today announced that Fantasy has been classified as a prescription medicine.
"The NZMA congratulates the Minister and Ministry of Health for their quick action. This drug, which has the potential to seriously harm people, should not be readily available for recreational use," NZMA Chairman Dr Pippa MacKay said.
"By classifying it as a prescription medicine, young people should realise that Fantasy is not just a harmless way to have fun.
"Abusing a drug that was originally developed as an anaesthetic can have dangerous consequences. Overdosing can lead to a coma. The Minister and Ministry should be applauded for taking action now before the drug's use became widespread."
The NZMA supports measures which educate young people about the hazards of drug abuse.
CONTACT DETAILS ARE:
Dr Pippa MacKay (025) 484 718 (mobile)
Shani Naylor Communications Co-ordinator (04) 472 4741 (wk) (025) 284 1081 (mobile)
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