THE ACT HEROIN TRIAL - INTELLECTUAL, PRACTICAL AND POLITICAL CHALLENGES

An array of intellectual, practical and political challenges will be f aced both if the Australian Capital Territory ''heroin trial'' does or does not eventuate. The intellectual challenges include the developme nt of new methodologies and analytical tools for some of the outcome m easures:. the further development of a research process which involves all the relevant disciplines and interest groups; and capitalizing on an unprecedented opportunity to investigate the pharmacokinetics of h eroin. The practicalities of setting up a trial also present a number of challenges, as does incorporating a health development approach. Po litical challenges include getting a sensible decision made about the trial, avoiding capture of the debate by supporters or opponents of dr ug law reform and avoiding unrealistic expectations. The major challen ge if the trial does not go ahead is to implement other well-considere d proposals which can be carefully evaluated.