There will always be the hardcore who will not, or cannot overcome their addictions. But this is few.

Why not give them free medical grade heroin, in a safe environment?

* Keeps them off the streets. * They no longer need to resort to crime to fund their addictions. * Besides their appointed time to get their dose, they can lead relatively normal productive lives.

It will save $$$$ and also keep money out of pockets of organised crime.

win:win in my book

That is not cessation of drug use but a program to sustain drug addiction safely. Clearly that’s great at reducing harm from dirty needles, but not great at cessation of addiction.

I’m suspect of your claim that the majority of addicts seek treatment, since I’ve not seen any data on seeking cessation. Maybe you know of some other data showing that most addicts seek treatment that includes cessation. However, according to surveys by CDC and national survey on drug use and health 23 million Americans have a substance addiction and 3 million seek treatment. Approx 1 in 6 adults has some form of substance abuse problem. There is nowhere near that number seeking treatment.

> And if a drug addict doesn't want treatment?

Switzerland gives their most hopeless heroin addicts free heroin, and a safe place to use it. [0]

A friend's son was expelled from his US high school for dealing heroin - this was probably 12 years ago. Addicts have to advertise to their friends to be able to afford their habit.

[0] http://www.citizensopposingprohibition.org/resources/swiss-h...

Give him (free or cheap) drugs, a safe place to use them, good advices and a way out of his habit. Do not force him.

https://www.thecommononline.org/decriminalization-a-love-sto...

Just give them drugs, then. It has to be cheaper than taking them to the ER every few weeks.