Pubdate: Sun, 07 Oct 2001
Source: Daily Independent, The (KY)
Copyright: 2001 The Daily Independent, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.dailyindependent.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1573
Author: Steve Helms

WE NEVER HEAR OF DEATH BY UNDERDOSE

I am all for curbing abuse of controlled drugs (editorial, Sept. 26, 
Curbing abuse). We hear about drug overdose deaths all the time, but what 
we do not hear about are the deaths by underdose. As fears about the abuse 
of a powerful and effective painkiller, OxyContin, spread across the 
nation, many states are restricting access to a drug that is a life saver 
to those in chronic pain.

It is the legitimate users that suffer as a result. The same can be said of 
most narcotic pain relievers. Just try to get a strong painkiller from your 
doctor for any type of chronic pain. Their fear of the DEA often prevents 
the adequate treatment of pain.

Instead, our lawmakers talk about "palliative" care only for the terminally 
ill - care that can only be administered in a hospital. Personally, I have 
no desire to spend my life savings on medical bills or to die in a 
hospital. When the pain becomes too great and can no longer be controlled 
by prescriptions my doctor will provide, I will find a way to quickly and 
permanently end the pain. I doubt that my death will be ruled as a drug 
underdose.

Steve Helms
Southlake, Texas
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MAP posted-by: Beth