I just ran across a report that Methadone related deaths went up 390% between 1999 and 2004 according to the National Drug Intelligence Center. They were also concerned that the trend is continuing. I have also seen a big increase in the use of Methadone for pain management and the problems some people have experienced. One of the reasons for this increase I believe is the relatively low cost of Methadone compared with a newer medication like OxyContin.

It got me thinking about all of the attention that is coming out regarding the “big” problem with prescription drug abuse and diversion in the United States; that pain patients are now being considered criminals. If you believe the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency), pain doctors and pain patients are criminals in need of punishment. There are knee-jerk reactions such as some states allowing law enforcement agencies to review prescription drug information without a warrant. I don’t know about you, but I don’t mind if my doctors or pharmacists want to check my complete record of prescription drug use, but I don’t like the idea that law enforcement officers can go on a “fishing expedition” to look for incriminating evidence.

Some of the pain clinics I consult with have patients who have been on opiates for many years; thus building up a big tolerance. At first glance it looks like “wow this person is out of control.” But a closer looks reveals they need what they are taking to have ANY quality of life at all. Doctors and other trained medical professionals should be deciding what is appropriate pain management—not the police or DEA. I know that some doctors and patients need law enforcement intervention, but that should be done through due process and with appropriate warrants.