OXYCONTIN, OTHER DRUGS AREN'T AT FAULT FOR DISEASE OF ADDICTION

Ann Potempa presented an interesting discussion in "Hillbilly Heroin"
(March 17). The medical community generally considers addiction to be
a disease that is progressive and potentially life-threatening. People
suffering from addiction may abuse a variety of legal and illegal
substances. The most important point is that the addictive behavior
(and not the specific substance being abused) created the problems and
tragic consequences described in the article.

OxyContin and other sustained-release opioids relieve pain very
effectively for people suffering from either cancer or chronic pain.
Moderate to severe cancer and chronic pain respond best to the
round-the-clock dosing and stable blood levels that these
sustained-release products provide. Unfortunately, these medications
have become popular with people who seek opioids for reasons other
than pain.

The vast majority of people taking these medications for pain are not
addicts. People with pain need to work closely with health care
providers to find a treatment plan that provides clear benefit and
safeguards against risks.

On Oct. 23, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration joined 21 of the
nation's leading pain and health care organizations to call for
appropriate use of opioids while preventing abuse of these
medications.

Pat Dooley, registered nurse, Anchorage