OXYCONTIN DISTRIBUTION ISN'T BEING MONITORED

WHY AREN'T steps being taken to stop the distribution of OxyContin from its
main source - the medical and pharmaceutical profession? It appears that
its distribution to patients isn't being monitored for apparent
irregularities in dispensing this medicine. There doesn't seem to be
sufficient accountability from physicians who readily prescribe or
overprescribe the drug. Why aren't databases being developed by
pharmaceutical companies to track the distribution of this drug, including
samples? Why aren't cameras being set up in hospital/retail pharmacies and
physicians' medical supply areas?

Are we waiting until the entire country is plagued with this dangerous and
apparently addictive drug to start the investigative wheels in motion?

My guess is, we're arresting abusers or obvious offenders but we're
neglecting to stop this activity at its main source of distribution, which
rests with the medical and pharmaceutical profession.

OxyContin is a prescribed drug that could be tracked if simple procedures
were put in place to eliminate how easily it's being distributed.

J.C. MURPHY, ROANOKE