"In the past, physicians who wished to prescribe sterile syringes to drug users did not do so in part because of the perception that it would violate state laws aimed at combating drug abuse, or result in a malpractice suit," said Scott Burris, who led the study at Temple University's Beasley School of Law in Philadelphia, Pa. "Our analysis shows that, in most places, these concerns are unfounded."

According to the study, doctors in 48 states can legally write prescriptions for syringes, and pharmacists in 26 states can legally fill the prescriptions. Pharmacists in 22 other states have a "reasonable claim to legality" to fill them.

However the study found that Kansas and Delaware prohibit any involvement by doctors or pharmacists in providing syringes to drug users. Georgia and Hawaii allow physician prescriptions, but do not allow pharmacies to dispense the needles.

Researchers said physicians prescribing syringes to drug addicts would help prevent the spread of the AIDS virus and give doctors a chance to counsel patients about the dangers of illegal drug use.

The study, which was sponsored by the nonprofit Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, is published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for everyone, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, focused, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post personal requests for help or general promotions for your organization (Get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.