Pubdate: 20 Mar 2001
Source: Kingsport Times-News (TN)
Copyright: 2001 Kingsport Publishing Corporation
Contact:  http://www.mapinc.org/media/1437
Website: http://www.timesnews.net/index.cgi
Author: Leigh Anne Hoover

OXYCONTIN A BOON

I am concerned that once again the minority is trying to push the
envelope and influence the majority over an issue.

Of recent concern is the prescription drug OxyContin. Unfortunately,
this drug is the current prescription drug of choice for addicts, and
that abuse has caused quite a bit of media attention. It has become so
abused that some people are advocating that the drug company
discontinue making OxyContin. This would be a terrible disservice to
many because of the abuse from a few.

With a mother ill from terminal cancer, I cannot say enough about the
benefits of OxyContin. Breast cancer, that metastasized in the bones,
has stricken my mother with excruciating pain. Thanks to many prayers,
a positive attitude, and the wonderful drug OxyContin, my mother is
controlling her pain and able to enjoy all aspects of her life. Other
pain medications did not provide this type of relief or allow the
mental freedom and cognizance provided by OxyContin. When used
correctly, OxyContin is a miracle for those in pain and must continue
to remain an available choice as a prescription for physicians for
patients needing pain management medication in order to maintain their
quality of life.

Leigh Anne Hoover, Kingsport