When talking about drug abuse, we often think of street drugs, but prescription painkillers are at the heart of a public health epidemic. These substances have killed more Americans than heroin and cocaine combined according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to a recent report by CNN approximately 12 million Americans 12 and older reported using prescription painkillers recreationally in 2010.
While prescription painkillers can work wonders when used as prescribed, those who take them are at risk for dependence, misuse and addiction. Others who don’t have pain issues are using the drugs to get a quick, cheap and legal high. Many of these medications come in a time-release formula, so users will crush pills and snort or inject them to make them more potent and faster acting. To combat this misuse drug companies continue to develop new versions that are safer and more abuse-resistant.
As quickly as manufacturers or the government put new safeguards in place, dealers and drug users find ways around the measures. That’s why a new warning issued by The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy has law enforcement on high alert near the Canadian border.
According to the alert Canada has approved non-abuse resistant generic versions of oxycodone, and these drugs were expected to hit the Canadian market in January 2013. Oxycodone is the active ingredient in OxyContin, Percocet and dozens of other painkillers that are favorites among those looking for a quick high.
While the drugs may be legal for our neighbors to the north, they are no longer available in the US market. Only time will tell if these Canadian generics make their way into the US and in what quantities. For now we need to be aware and on alert.
Prescription Drug Abuse Help at The Canyon
If you or someone you love needs treatment for prescription drug misuse or abuse, call The Canyon at the toll-free number on our homepage.
