Study: Doctors overprescribing drugs
By Lisa Girion and Scott Glover, Los Angeles Times
Doctors are fueling the nation’s prescription drug epidemic and represent the primary source of narcotic painkillers for chronic abusers, according to a government study.
The finding challenges a widely held belief that has long guided policymakers: That the epidemic is caused largely by abusers getting their drugs without prescriptions, typically from friends and family.
Tom Frieden, doctor and director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which conducted the study, said the research showed the need for greater focus on doctors who are “problem prescribers.”
No, really.
as earthshaking as LA freeways clogged in morning commute
Is this surprising in the modern day American over-consumptive, instant gratification, take a pill to fix everything society?
Prescription drugs are aggressively pushed by Pharma reps…with lavish lunches, events, samples and perks for offices that exceed quotas. Advertising brainwashes us to ‘ask our doctor about…’. Some very provocative studies have come out recently detailing how Pharma hides the results of beta tests, with the FDA turning a blind eye, making billions in profit…until the original patent expires and the drug goes generic. Then the class action lawsuits start, while some in congress scream about torte reform. Research it yourselves. Disgusting!