Ontario Oxycontin Drug Addiction

Death rates in Ontario due to Oxycontin drug addiction are rising. Funded by the public health program, Oxycontin prescriptions have tripled in the last 5 years. Many citizens are enraged that such an addictive drug is paid for by the public health program. Drug rehab centers are seeing a rise in admissions of Oxycontin addicts. In one respect, this is good because at least some people are seeking help. On the other hand, for every admission, there are at least 2 other people who are not getting help. There is currently a probe under way by the Ministry of Health.

In Ontario alone, over 400 deaths occurred last 5 years from Oxycontin addiction. The death toll is rising every year. Oxycontin is a powerful pain killer that is an opiate. It is normally used for chronic and severe pain. It also is very slow acting which is why addicts will often chew or crush and snort the drug. Some even crush the Oxycontin and put it in water to inject it. The effects of Oxycontin are very much like heroin or morphine. A drug that has a pharmaceutical value of about $4, sells for $45 on the streets. People in Ontario are visiting several different doctors to get more than one prescription. It’s not only addictive, and deadly, it is big business for drug dealers.

Oxycontin addiction is a world-wide problem that is significantly on the rise in Ontario. Many feel that the drug is prescribed much too freely and is too easily available. Oxycontin, which is meant for extreme pain is given out for minor injuries and ailments when there are less addictive drugs available. The consensus in Ontario is that the majority of the blame lies with the doctors.

Regardless of where the blame lies, once addicted, the focus must shift to rehabilitation. Getting the drug out of the addicts system is first and foremost but it is not the end of the solution. Oxycontin, as with other drugs, affect the entire person. The drug affects the mind, the body and the spirit. Ontario Oxycontin addicts have help available. Trained and caring professionals are ready to help put lives back together. The Oxycontin drug addiction problem in Ontario is on the rise but it is possible to turn that around. Friends and family have to get involved. Intervention may be necessary and rehab and detox is a must. It just may save the life of someone you love.