At some point, most of us suffer injuries that cause such pain that home remedies or over-the-counter medications will simply not ease our suffering. In such cases, we may be able to get a prescription from a doctor for something stronger. Many of these prescription painkillers do a good job of making us feel better. The problem is that some of these medicines are also highly addictive. This means that for some, after an injury heals and the pain subsides, there is a residual craving for the drug.
Many painkillers are what is known as opioids, and according to a recent poll, the United States is facing a serious problem with opioid addiction. The poll surveyed over 1,352 adults. The results were stunning, with over 25 percent of those surveyed saying that they or a family member or a close friend suffered from an addiction.
Another interesting detail from the poll was that 58 percent of survey participants said it was easy for those with a medical need to get painkillers. But 77 percent said it was easy for them to get a hold of painkillers without a prescription. What this would indicate is that these highly addictive drugs are readily available.
These percentages speak volumes. Clearly, it is all too easy for people to develop addictions to prescription drugs. But unfortunately, at present, the illicit possession of prescription drugs is considered a serious offense.
If you are struggling with prescription painkiller addiction and have been arrested on a possession charge, you need to remember that you have rights. A Louisiana criminal defense attorney could possibly be able to help protect your personal interests. If you are addicted, then you may be able to request for treatment rather than having to serve time in jail.
Source: Behavioral Healthcare, ” Poll: Half of America affected by opioid crisis,” Julie Miller, Nov. 24, 2015