'Desperation' behind euthanasia drug smuggling: AMA

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) says it is alarmed a growing number of elderly Australians may be turning to an illegal drug to take their lives.

ABC TV's Four Corners program has broadcast claims that hundreds of people are illegally importing the powerful sedative Nembutal to Australia, while others have successfully made the drug here.

Nembutal is a banned drug in Australia and those caught importing or manufacturing it risk jail.

Dr Rosanna Capolingua from the AMA's ethics committee has told Four Corners it shows the desperation in some individuals.

"We have to solve what the desperation is about. We have to relieve them of the need and belief that they should have, and need to have, the right to choose death over continuing to live," she said.

Dr Capolingua says she believes those breaking the law should be prosecuted.