Preventing Overdose

Considering an alternative to your pain medications? Read to the end of the side effects listed on opioid drug labels and you’ll eventually come across “death.” Research led by the Seatlle non-profit, Group Health Cooperative recently indicated even those patients treated with opioids for legitimate health concerns still run the risk of overdose. Opioids such as morphine and oxycontin slow breathing, causing users to suffocate. Experts are not suggesting patients discontinue their use, yet with millions of Americans relying on these drugs to treat chronic conditions, concern has been raised about improving the efficacy of patient screening before prescribing medication. (Via Reuters)