Pubdate: Mon, 21 Mar 2016
Source: San Diego Union Tribune (CA)
Copyright: 2016 Union-Tribune Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.utsandiego.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/386
Note: Seldom prints LTEs from outside it's circulation area.
Author: Harry J. Bonnell

LIMITING ACCESS TO DRUGS CREATES PROBLEM

Regarding "CDC guidelines aim to curb painkiller prescribing" (March 
16): Blaming doctors and "Big Pharma" for drug abuse is like blaming 
auto manufacturers and dealers for speeding drivers. The solution is 
treating drug abuse.

Making prescription opioids harder to get has resulted in increased 
heroin and fentanyl deaths. Limiting availability simply drives up 
the price for abusers who commit crimes against us to get the money.

Prescription drugs are made under quality control so the dosage is 
known, illegal drugs not so. Limiting access makes the pain worse for 
patients, wastes physician time on administrative tasks, and supports 
drug cartels.

The war on drugs has failed just like Prohibition. Restricting 
production and distribution simply drives the price up and cures nobody.

Harry J. Bonnell

San Diego
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom