[Medical consultation and drug use in preventive detention at the Champ-Dolon prison].

The objective of this analysis is to call attention to several factors which may account for the frequency of medical consultations and the extensive intake of medication during the first two months of preventive custody at the Champ-Dollon prison. The results of this study, substantiated by the number of consultations granted and prescriptions filled, indicate that there has been prompt and extensive medical action. This heavy medical care is only partially explained by its significant association with the usual medical care received prior to imprisonment and by the psychosomatic symptoms manifested early in the detention period. The characteristics of those under study-connected with toxicomania, psychopathy and recidivism-are also greatly responsible for extensive use of medical services during detention.