Over 60,000 people were taken to the ER for fatal opioid overdoses, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in 2016. This is the latest sign that opioid addiction is worsening even with the efforts of public health authorities in place. The data confirms that the drug crisis has struck the nation hard due to the increase in the use of the street drugs like heroin.

The state of Louisiana is attempting to curb the growing addiction by working with prescribers, police officers, and the community. Through the Louisiana Department of Justice, community outreach programs continue to teach the public about being responsible when taking prescribed drugs. Drug disposing events offer the community a convenient way to dispose of expired prescriptions.

In cases of chronic pain, the state of Louisiana is in agreeance with the CDC regarding the use of guidelines for prescribing opioids in cases of chronic pain.  Prescribers are expected to use prescription opioids to help treat severe, chronic pain. Doctors also have tools in place should they need to make safe prescription decisions. The misuse of medications is also being made more difficult as opioids are being manufactured in a peculiar way. To discourage addicts attempting to maximize their high by snorting or injecting a drug, the pain killer is made to where it loses effectiveness when crushed or dissolved. This could be a helpful solution to addicts accidentally overdosing when snorting a drug.

Opioid addicton has taken the lives of many Americans. If you or a loved one have been injured by a prescription drug, contact the attorneys at Martzell, Bickford, and Centola. We understand how devastating a prescription drug injury can be to your health and will work to hold the appropriate people responsible.