The Opioid Epidemic: By the numbers

Hi, I'm Dr. Jeff Langmaid with Research that Matters TV. The opioid epidemic is the deadliest drug crisis in American history. It's estimated that over 2 million people have had a problem with opioids and nearly 50,000 die each year due to their use. So how did we get here? In the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies began aggressively marketing these drugs and the strong painkilling nature of the medications and made it easy for people to slip into addiction. One popular pain relieving opioid called fentanyl is up to 50 times more potent than heroin. Researchers have discovered up to 20% of people who take opioids for pain are at risk of developing an addiction. Opiates affect the pain and pleasure receptors in your brain. They block the pain signals while also increasing the release of dopamine, which is a feel good chemical. The combination of these actions is why so many people continue to take these medications. Please keep in mind, over 75% of drug overdose deaths are due to opioids. Opioids provide relief by blocking those receptors in your brain. And in pain relief, opioid fentanyl is up to 50 times more potent than heroin. The first step in overcoming this epidemic is to understand there are safe and effective treatment options that don't require a prescription. This month, our practice is focused on bringing you the best research based information about opioids and the latest guidelines from many of the most prominent healthcare organizations that are facilitating change by providing chiropractic care. Our office is proud to be a part of the solution to this epidemic. My name is Dr. Jeff Langmaid and I'll see you next week for another episode of Research that Matters tv.