Down to Earth: The Opioid Crisis
On today\u2019s show, we are talking about the opioid crisis, also known as the opioid epidemic, and its woeful impact on millions of American people and families.
\nOpioid medications are commonly abused because of their addictive qualities. These medications bind to the areas of the brain that control pain and emotions, driving up levels of the feel-good hormone dopamine isn\u2019t he brain\u2019s reward areas and producing an intense feeling of euphoria. As the brain becomes used to the feelings, it often takes more and more of the drug to produce the same levels of pain relief and well-being, leading to dependence and, later, addiction. OxyContin, Fentanyl, and Hydrocodone are some well-known examples of opioids used today.
\nPurdue Pharma, the pharmaceutical company that distributes many opioids in North America, is owned by the Sackler family, who have recently faced criticism and lawsuits amidst Purdue Pharma\u2019s role in the crisis. The Sacklers are one of the wealthiest families in the country, with an estimated fortune of $13 billion. However, as part of a tentative settlement agreement in thousands of lawsuits over what accusers say is misleading marketing of Purdue Pharma\u2019s painkiller, OxyContin, Purdue Pharma has recently filed for bankruptcy. The settlement requires members of the Sackler family to pay $3 billion of their own fortune in cash over the next 7 years.
\nWho is truly at fault for this crisis: the creators of these drugs? Or the users themselves? Is it right to blame an addict for their addiction when the drug itself is nigh irresistible? What about those who were prescribed opioids for chronic pain following a major life-changing event, and are now saddled with addiction, high medical bills, and a bleak health future? Listen in to find out.
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