Cloak+Dagger

STOP RUNNING

Who Are You?

In the United States, more than 12 million people use opioid drugs recreationally.105 In 2010, 16,652 deaths were related to opioid overdose in combination with other drugs such as benzodiazepines and alcohol.106 In September 2013, the FDA released new labeling guidelines for long acting and extended release opioids requiring manufacturers to remove moderate pain as indication for use, instead stating the drug is for “pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long term opioid treatment.”107 The updated labeling will not restrict physicians from prescribing opioids for moderate, as needed use.105

Oxycodone is the most widely recreationally used opioid in America. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that about 11 million people in the US consume oxycodone in a non-medical way annually.108 In 2007, about 42,800 emergency room visits occurred due to “episodes” involving oxycodone.109 Diverted oxycodone may be taken orally or ingested through insufflation; used intravenously, or the heated vapors inhaled. In 2008, recreational use of oxycodone and hydrocodone were involved in 14,800 deaths. Some of the cases were due to overdoses of the acetaminophen component, resulting in fatal liver damage.110

Reformulated OxyContin is causing some recreational users to change to heroin, which is cheaper and easier to obtain.111

Economics

The International Narcotics Control Board estimated 11.5 short tons (10.4 t) of oxycodone were manufactured worldwide in 1998;112 by 2007 this figure had grown to 75.2 short tons (68.2 t).112 United States accounted for 82% of consumption in 2007 at 51.6 short tons (46.8 t). Canada, Germany, Australia, and France combined accounted for 13% of consumption in 2007.112113 In 2010, 1.3 short tons (1.2 t) of oxycodone were illegally manufactured using a fake pill imprint. This accounted for 0.8% of consumption. These illicit tablets were later seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, according to the International Narcotics Control Board.114 The board also reported 122.5 short tons (111.1 t) manufactured in 2010. This number had decreased from a record high of 135.9 short tons (123.3 t) in 2009.

You Do That a Lot —

You Stop Talking Right When You're About to Say Something.