Drug use in Hungary: an overview

Based on surveys and clinical data, it is concluded that the use of illegal drugs is spreading in Hungary. The social composition of drug users is changing and new forms of drugs and uses have appeared, such as heroin use and cocaine snorting. The legal regulation of access to drugs changed in 1993: stricter sentences can be imposed on drug traffickers, while the possibility has been created for drug users to undertake therapy in place of punishment. The Interministerial Committee on Drug Affairs and the Hungarian Association on Drug Use and Addiction have been set up. There are a few scientifically-based prevention programs. A number of clear paradigms have emerged in prevention policy and therapy, although it is not yet possible to see which of these will be confirmed by time and practice.