DRUG UNDERDOSE

We hear about drug overdose deaths all the time but what we do not hear
about are the deaths by underdose.

As fears about the abuse of a powerful and effective painkiller, oxycotin,
spread across the nation, many states are restricting access to a drug that
is a lifesaver to those in chronic pain.

And it is the legitimate users who suffer as a result. The same can be said
of most narcotic pain relievers.

Just try to get a strong painkiller from your doctor for any type of
chronic pain. Their fear of the Drug Enforcement Administration often
prevents the adequate treatment of pain. Instead, our lawmakers like Sens.
Kay Hutchison and Phil Gramm talk about "palliative" care only for the
terminally ill - care that can only be administered in a hospital.

Personally, I have no desire to spend my life savings on medical bills or
to die in a hospital. When the pain becomes too great and can no longer be
controlled by prescriptions my doctor will not provide, I will find a way
to quickly and permanently end the pain. I doubt that my death will be
ruled as a drug underdose.

Steve Helms, Southlake