Oxycodone has become the drug of choice for many Oklahomans. This prescription, opioid-based, pill is effective at treating pain, but it’s also extremely addictive. It’s not just oxycodone, other opioids like morphine, Buprenorphine, and hydrocodone are all just as addictive.
When it comes to overdoses, Oklahoma ranks 10th in the nation, according to data from the Center for Disease Control. In the US, opioids claim around 40 lives everyday.
Lots of people who get hooked on opioids start with a legitimate prescription from a doctor. Opioids are commonly prescribed after surgeries or sickness to help patients cope with pain.
During the recovery period, patients get use to the feeling of the pills and want to keep the feeling after their prescription runs out. The CDC is rolling out new regulations to try to put a stop to this epidemic. These regulations instruct doctors to tell patience to try using over the counter pain medications first, and only prescribe opioids when absolutely necessary.
This decision has caused controversy in the medical community. Some doctors complain that these new rules go too far, and will get in the way of treating patients.
On the other hand, community leaders who work with drug addicts and in rehab clinics applaud the new rules and hope this will bring change to a terrible problem in our community.
Opioids are seriously addictive and carry serious penalties in Oklahoma if you don’t have a prescription. For your first offense you can face a $5,000 fine and up to 5 years in jail. Anyone charged with possession of oxycodone or any other opioid needs to find a lawyer who is familiar with Oklahoma drug laws.
