Some people swear by it, and some people swear at it. The drug, approved by the Food and Drug Administration with no controversy in 1995, has come under intense scrutiny in recent months. Abuse of OxyContin, unlike other street drugs, began in rural areas, where narcotics such as heroin are not easily available. Va. The DEA says abuse of the painkiller has made its way from Appalachia, across Virginia and into the Washington region, including Maryland and the District. DEA agents are questioning distributors, doctors, pharmacies and users in investigations in Washington and its suburbs.
Doctors say the drug is so addictive because it is so effective.
It is helpful to people like Duer when it is managed properly. OxyContin eases pain over time, releasing steady amounts of oxycodone that trick the brain into ignoring what hurts. The time-release tablets allow patients flexibility and the option of taking fewer pills. As patients become tolerant, their dosages are increased, sometimes dramatically. The large quantity of the drug can immediately stop the heart, doctors say.