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Methadone Realities
When most people hear the word methadone, they think of it as a treatment for heroin addiction. But last year, methadone was named as as contributing factor in 101 deaths in Oregon — more than heroin and nearly as many as methamphetamine.
Methadone has been lauded as a low-cost tool in chronic pain management. In fact, it's become one of the most prescribed opioid pain killers. With its growth as a drug prescribed to treat pain, a black market has developed. Its increased prevalence has also led to higher death rates.
Do you consider methadone to be a safe and effective way to kick opiate addiction or treat chronic pain? What's your experience?
GUESTS:
- Emilie Craig: Former methadone patient
- "Terry": Methadone patient
- Chris Young: Oregon Deputy State Medical Examiner
- Ron Jackson: Executive director of Evergreen Treatment Service
Tagged as: addiction · drugs · health · mental health · pain management
Photo credit: Steve Collins / Creative Commons
