Amid the Weed Scare There Grows a Thornier Problem: The Misuse of Opioids. The Pills May Be Prescribed, but the Abuser's Behavior Isn't.

The local popularity of medical marijuana aside, the prescription drug of choice these days seems to be the opioid painkiller. And small wonder.

The medications are highly effective in controlling pain -- whether from dental procedures, surgery, traumatic injuries or chronic conditions such as back pain and cancer. They're remarkably safe when used properly. And they produce a sense of well-being -- yes, a "high" - -- that makes them irresistible to millions of Americans who take them for relaxation or recreation.

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