Positivity Around Slow Release Opioids

That the Parliament notes that in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area, 100 opioid dependent patients are currently being treated with Buvidal; understands that Buvidal is an alternative way to deliver the drug, Buprenorphine, and is a slow-release opioid requiring a once-a-month injection, therefore limiting the need to visit pharmacies to pick up prescriptions while still reducing the dependence of those with addictions on criminally-sourced opioids; recognises what it considers the benefits that Buvidal and similar treatments can bring, such as removing the stigma of collecting prescriptions from pharmacies, reducing the need to go to pharmacies during the COVID-19 pandemic, ending the reliance on criminal gangs to supply drugs, and making it easier to engage with activities such as employment, and supports advances in drug rehabilitation that facilitate positive outcomes for people with addictions.