THE HSE HAS been asked to investigate prescription practises for certain medications after a national study showed a “huge increase” in the usage of legally available opiates.

Women and people aged between 25 – 34 are most likely to consume such drugs, according to a recent survey by the National Advisory Committee of Drugs.

The survey noted a marked increase in the number of people who used substances classed under the broad category “other opiates”; these drugs range from painkillers – such as codeine – to anti-anxiety medication, tranquilisers and sedatives.

In response to the survey, the Minister of State for Primary Care Róisín Shorthall asked the HSE to examine how benzodiazepines are prescribed – with the substance being an active ingredient in products like Valium, Xanax, Sobril, Xanor and Mogadon.

Shorthall said the rise in usage was a reason for concern, and noted that such drugs can be sourced either from within the country or bought over the internet. As such, the substances are open to abuse as they can be obtained illegally or used without professional supervision.