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Over Prescribed Opioid Drugs Cause Addiction, Overdoses

medical malpractice

With the passing of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, we’re reminded of the toll addiction has taken on those we know, most especially our clients who have lost loved ones.

Mr. Hoffman’s heroin relapse, according to an interview he gave last year, was precipitated by exposure to prescription drugs. Prescription opioids were found in his apartment.

For millions of users, prescription opioids first appear safe and doctor-supported. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, opioids were responsible for approximately 44% of the 38,329 overdose deaths nationally in 2010. The federal government recently announced a national plan to target the misuse and overprescribing of opioids. The Food and Drug Administration says that opioids, including OxyContin, Avinza, Dolophine, and Duragesic, are among the brand names that are extensively misprescribed and misused, leading to addiction, overdoses, and deaths.

The popularity of opioids has hit Washington especially hard. Washington has one of the highest overdose rates. Prescriptions for opioids doubled between 2000 and 2010, prompting lawmakers to enact recent opioid prescribing restrictions and tracking requirements.

Over-prescription of opioids by physicians has had a devastating effect on many Washington families. The highly addictive nature of opioids–made worse by higher-than-recommended dosages and renewals without proper assessment– can be hidden by the seeming normalcy of those suffering from addiction.

People addicted to opioids are often seeking relief from significant pain with a doctor’s help. They do not fit stereotypes associated with illegal drug users.

Families and loved ones may defer to the natural authority of doctors rather than act on their concerns. This can prolong the time it takes before an individual receives help. Approaching friends or family members with a suspected addiction is very difficult, to say the least. Few people, no matter how well intentioned, know how best to help an addicted loved one.

However, there are resources you can turn to. For example, you can view the symptoms of addiction and a list of Washington rehab centers and resources at AllTreatment.com. The SAMA Foundation also provides guidance via a hotline, youth services, and research-based groups.

If you are concerned about someone you love, addiction experts and resources are available to help your loved one and guide you as you cope with the emotional challenges.

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