Member-supported news for Southern California
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Support for LAist comes from:

The rise of Oxycontin addiction and abuse

Ways to Subscribe
OxyContin causes more overdoses than heroin and cocaine combined, according to a report by the Centers for Drug Control.
Vitualis/Flickr/Creative Commons
OxyContin causes more overdoses than heroin and cocaine combined, according to a report by the Centers for Drug Control.

A deeper look at the incredibly popular painkiller Oxycontin and the problems that have led, in part, to the drug becoming quite addictive.

Oxycontin is one of the most popular pain medications in the U.S.

If you have a sore back or are recovering from surgery, chances are you may get a prescription.

But according to a new investigation by the Los Angeles Times, the highly-addictive drug has also been a major player in the nation's struggle with abuse and drug-related death.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that more than 7 million Americans have abused Oxycontin over the last 20 years. And now some of its central claims are being questioned.

Harriet Ryan is one of the reporters behind the story, she spoke to host A Martinez.

To hear the full interview, click the blue play button above.

Stay Connected