[Tilidin (Valoron) abuse. Results of an enquiry of drug consumers (author's transl)].

Contrary to previous clinical reports tilidin (Valoron), valuable as a strong analgesic, can replace opiates in young people addicted to them. In the drug scene, therefore, Valoron - very often through irresponsible medical prescription - has become a substitute for opiates. The results of an enquiry about Valoron abuse in 44 opiate addicts are reported. Four cases of isolated Valoron addiction are included which were indistinguishable from the typical career of an opium addict. Further cases of Valoron abuse, estimated at 600, have been mentioned to us, partly by name and partly by number. Doctors and pharmacists are urgently advised to treat Valoron with the same caution prescribed for opiates by the Betäubungsmittelgesetz (= Narcotics Act).