In recent
months, there have been numerous reports of OxyContin abuse in several
states. Some of these reported cases have been associated with serious
consequences including death. In an effort to educate health care
providers about these risks, Purdue Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer
of the product, has issued a warning in the form of a "Dear
Healthcare Professional" letter. The "Dear Healthcare
Professional" letter will be distributed widely to physicians,
pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. The letter explains
the changes to the labeling including proper prescribing information
and highlights the problems associated with the abuse and misuse
of OxyContin.
OxyContin,
like morphine, has a high potential for abuse. It is supplied in
a controlled-release dosage form and is intended to provide up to
12 hours of relief from moderate to severe pain. The tablet must
be taken whole and only by mouth. When the tablet is crushed and
its contents are injected intravenously or snorted into the nostrils,
the controlled release mechanism is defeated and a potentially lethal
dose of oxycodone is released immediately.Many lawsuits targeting
the maker claim that they were negligent in warning about the potential
for abuse.
