The law is about to evolve in France but a crucial question remains unanswered: what is the composition of the product administered at the end? Is it already known?
Two options are possible but “The product is not yet defined” We immediately replies Professor Gérard Audibert, anesthesiologist-resuscitator at the Nancy University Hospital and president of the SFAR Ethics Committee (French Society of Anesthesia and Resuscitation). “And this is quite normal, since the law itself is not finalized.” After a first vote in the National Assembly, the text must still pass the Senate, historically more reserved. “The Senate may take several articles. We are heading for a joint joint commission.” According to him, the final text will not be adopted before spring 2026. Once the law passed, it will be the High Authority for Health (HAS) to specify the terms. “A multi -professional working group will be responsible for developing a drug protocol. It will be based on scientific literature and foreign practices, especially in Switzerland or Oregon.”
The first option is that of an oral take. The current text favors this possibility where the person concerned takes the treatment, without intervention by the caregiver. “In Switzerland, it is a liquid. In the United States, in Oregon, it is a tablet but this option is not flawless. The liquid is very bitter. Some vomit or swallow through, even if they first take an anti-vomitory treatment. Oral absorption is never completely reliable. “ In some countries, this stage is organized by non -medical structures. “In Switzerland, these are associations that organize the catch. If the gesture fails, the situation can become very complicated.”
Another solution mentioned: the administration by infusion of a powerful anesthetic, causing a coma and then stopping breathing. “It is a sure technique: we know exactly what the patient receives. The patient falls asleep calmly but without alarm clock,” specifies Professor Audibert but “The effect of the infusion is not instantaneous. There is a delay between act and death, which leaves a form of distance for the caregiver.”
Ultimately, the protocol will be national and standardized. “There will not be several options. A single product, a single dose, a single method of administration.” This document will also serve as a legal reference in the event of litigation. “”In the event of an incident, it is this protocol that will make people in court. “ Even authorized, this help remains a highlight. “This is not the primary mission of caregivers even if sometimes it is the ultimate step of support” Concludes Professor Audibert. “The protocol will also have to respect the caregiver’s conscience, not just the patient’s will.”
