BDA warns against disruption of lidocaine supplies for dentists

The British Dental Association (BDA) has warned against any government actions to combat the spread of illegal drugs that would interfere with the supply of legitimate compounds for dental usage.

A consultation has been launched by the Home Office on plans for new powers that would facilitate the seizure and detention of chemicals suspected of being used as drug cutting agents – substances used to bulk out supplies of illegal drugs.

However, the BDA has voiced concerns that one of the drugs covered by the proposals is the local anaesthetic lidocaine, which is widely used in dentistry, is prescription-only and plays an important role in patient care.

Should the government's proposals be implemented, the burden of proof of misuse would be shifted away from law enforcement agencies and on to businesses and individuals.

Professor Damien Walmsley, scientific adviser to the BDA, said: "It is important that legislative changes neither disrupt the supply of products for legitimate use nor add to the cost or bureaucracy associated with their procurement."

The Home Office consultation period on this issue will conclude on July 7th 2013.