On our failure to face the link between drug use and AIDS

It is necessary that society accept the medical, neurological basis of compulsive drug/alcohol use in order for it to get on with finding and using pragmatic approaches to treatment, rather than punishment, as the rational way to deal with these issues. The increased availability of oral methadone must be promoted, not only because it eliminates the need for drug injection, but because it allows the opioid dependent to lead comfortable and functional lives. The emphasis on punishment and incarceration for illicit-drug users or purveyors must give way to alternatives bent on treatment and rehabilitation. More states should follow the example of Connecticut in dealing wisely with drug/AIDS issues.