University of Virginia Library

250,000 Heroin Addicts

A quarter million heroin addicts in the
United States was the next topic for discussion,
as the doctor stressed the fact that control
could be achieved only on an international
level. He went on to say that the danger of
heroin was not only the drug, but the
accompanying drug culture, the excitement of
them, and the life as a fugitive.

Whereas the average age of a heroin addict
fifteen years ago was 19, it has now dropped
down to 13 or 14. In the light of a 12 year old
addict, Dr. Buckman questioned the drug's
present day use as rebellion against a
materialistic society.

Returning to the hallucinogens, the doctor,
described the stronger forms such as LSD and
mescaline as having a chemical composition
similar to the chemical conductors within our
nervous system. These drugs though their
similarity completely disrupt the autonomic
system leading to gross emotional disturbances.