Pubdate: Fri, 14 Dec 2001
Source: Charleston Daily Mail (WV)
Copyright: 2001 Charleston Daily Mail
Contact:  http://www.dailymail.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/76
Author: Linda L Jones

OXYCONTIN A GODSEND FOR THOSE IN EXCRUCIATING PAIN

Before my mother died, OxyContin was prescribed for excruciating pain due 
to hip and pelvic fractures and osteoarthritis. This medication was a 
godsend to her. Richard Hall of the West Virginia State Police is quoted as 
saying that, "If a tire can be recalled, why shouldn't this be?"

Rolly Sullivan, head of addiction programs at West Virginia University 
School of Medicine said, "I've don't believe we've ever seen as aggressive 
a marketing campaign."

Hall suggests that we just deny everyone the drug because some people are 
abusing it or selling it.

Sullivan says that the manufacturer has played a role in this abuse of the 
drug because of its marketing strategy.

Rep. Alan Mollohan said he would "vote right now" to prohibit the drug from 
being dispensed for moderate pain.

How misguided, shortsighted, and misinformed can three people be?

It is the responsibility of physicians to prescribe medication and to 
assess the level of pain an individual is experiencing, law enforcement to 
deal with any criminal behavior, and politicians to stay out of it.

Do these three individuals ever listen to themselves or read their own quotes?

Linda L. Jones

Martinsburg
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