Oxycontin

Oxycontin is a powerful painkiller often prescribed to those with terminal cancer and those suffering chronic pain. This drug is a time-released form of oxycodone, a derivative of opium.

Oxycontin’s time-release coating is designed to allow its users 12 hours of pain relief. Unfortunately, it is believed this time-release benefit plays a major role in it’s addictive quality. Over time, individuals need increased amounts of the drug in order to obtain the same effect. This is know as building a tolerance. Many otherwise law abiding people have found themselves addicted to Oxycontin. For example, radio announcer Rush Limbaugh admitted his addiction to Oxycontin in 2003.

In July 2001, new warnings were added to Oxycontin, with the FDA’s strongest warning — a black box calling Oxycontin as potentially addictive as morphine. Purdue Pharma sent out letters to doctors asking them to only prescribe Oxycontin for severe pain. Purdue Pharma, however, still asserts there is no problem with Oxycontin and continues to market the drug aggressively.

Oxycontin has been blamed for more than 100 deaths, most of which involve mixing the drug with alcohol. Some people blame Purdue Pharma for these tragedies, claiming the corporation failed to adequately warn doctors and patients of just how addictive and deadly Oxycontin is, especially when mixing it with alcohol.

If you or loved one have been injured as a result of taking Oxycontin, you may have a valid claim. Call Cellino & Barnes now at 1-800-621-2020 or contact us.

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