Winehouse denies plans for drug rehab in Israel

London, May 24 : Troubled star Amy Winehouse has dismissed reports that she will be traveling to Israel for drug addiction treatment.

The 'Back to Black' singer, who was recently photographed apparently smoking crack cocaine, was allegedly planning to undergo a 6,400 pounds operation to kick her well-documented habit.

According to the Jewish Chronicle, the treatment was to take place at the Barzilai Medical Centre following a request from the 24-year-old singer's representatives.

Her management has dismissed the report as "nonsense", however, Eliezer Cohen, the chairman of the Israel Anti-Drug Authority, told the newspaper: "They spoke to a renowned Israeli institution and an Israeli professor who conducts a very special and effective method."

"She has requested to come to him to do this method, since it's a method that is suitable for her," the Telegraph quoted Cohen, as saying.

Patients undergoing the treatment are put under anaesthetic for up to six hours while doctors block the opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system in an attempt to prevent further cravings.

Dr Andre Waismann, who was reportedly to carry out the treatment, said: "All of my patients are discharged healthy and no longer dependent. There is a misunderstanding about drug addiction. People think it is a social and psychological problem, but it's a neurological problem.

"Whether it's Amy Winehouse or anyone else, it is a privilege to be able to treat anyone who is opiate-dependent, and allow them to live a normal life."

ANI