The Scottish Government has defended its use of methadone in drug rehabilitation procedures.
Detailed analysis showed methadone was implicated in or potentially contributed to almost half (47%) of the 584 drug-related deaths in Scotland in 2011.
However, a spokeswoman for the Scottish Government said: “We are dealing with a long legacy of drug use. That’s why our drugs strategy aims to ensure that those who need treatment, get it and why we have invested record amounts in frontline services to help people recover £30.2 million in 2012/13.
“That strategy is clear that substitute prescribing such as methadone, is one of a number of methods of treatment and care that can be offered to individuals. Decisions on its use are for clinical professionals in line with good practice.”
