Addiction isn’t only a celebrity problem
Between the DEA investigating doctors who allegedly prescribed painkillers to Michael Jackson and the recent Maryland news of a pharmacist who was arrested on federal charges for allegedly selling more than 23,000 prescription pills, the abuse of prescription painkillers is high profile.
Many don’t understand just how big of an issue it is. Some perceive the pills as somehow less harmful than street drugs. What many don’t understand is that it is exactly the same type of addiction as heroin. And sadly, many don’t know where to turn for help.
The use of prescription drugs without proper authorization or consult from a physician is considered abuse and ongoing abuse of prescription drugs, such as painkillers and anti-anxiety medication can lead to addiction and even death.
The American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM) has been working with the FDA to develop a Risk Evaluation and Management Strategy that would pair the 1,200 doctors certified in addiction medicine with the 2,500 doctors board certified in pain management. This would take internists and primary care doctors out of the prescription painkiller business and ensure painkiller use is monitored from a combined pain and addiction standpoint.
As one of the few ABAM certified addiction specialists in the state of Maryland, I look forward to a potential partnership in an effort to reduce the damage done to lives because of the misuse of prescription drugs.
Resources:
Baltimore Sun Article – “Pharmacist accused of illegally selling pills”
Audio:
Bel Air Center for Addictions Radio Spot – “Dark Secret” [1.9Mb .MP3]
Seed Newsvine
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Contact: Cobey Dietrich
A. Bright Idea Advertising and Public Relations
Tel. 410-836-7180 | Mobile: 717-318-4320 | E-mail: cobey@abrightideaonline.com
Dr. Tannenbaum and the Bel Air Center for Addictions treats individuals with addictions ranging from alcohol and prescription pain medication to heroin use, in a professional atmosphere and through methods which cause minimal impact to daily life. For more information, contact Dr. Tannenbaum at (443) 504-4710 or visit the Web site at www.belaircenterforaddictions.com.