Pubdate: Sun, 06 Mar 2016
Source: Sacramento Bee (CA)
Copyright: 2016 The Sacramento Bee
Contact: http://mapinc.org/url/0n4cG7L1
Website: http://www.sacbee.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/376
Author: George Alger

DON'T GO TOO FAR IN RESTRICTING OPIATES

Re "Father tries to save the next father's son" (Forum, Dan Morain, 
Feb. 28): Abuse of prescription opiates has been in the news with 
good reason. The risk of addiction and abuse is obvious. However, we 
must not forget the good these drugs can do when used properly. Going 
too far in restricting their use can have deleterious consequences.

Over 15 years ago there was a newspaper article about a young lady 
afflicted with a painful nerve disorder. It was thought that she 
would need home health care for the rest of her life. A doctor tried 
a controversial treatment  heavy doses of morphine sulphate four 
times a day. The lethargy associated with opiates went away after a 
week when the body adjusted to them. The woman graduated from college 
magna cum laude and started her own business.

While the risk of abuse and addiction with opiates is real, one 
should not overlook their potential for good and their ability to 
provide a better life in certain circumstances.

George Alger, Placerville
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom