Managing Drug Use

Summary This study of Class A drug users in Nottingham identifies a local drug economy with specific demand and supply characteristics. With reference to demand, data are presented on users’purchasing power and purchasing behaviour, including drug re‐sales and the use of credit. Crude elasticity relationships are discussed. The analysis of the supply side includes an examination of the dealing system and pricing methods. Following the integration of these two themes by way of summary the paper concludes with a discussion of the implication of its findings for public policy aimed at managing drug use.