Should Oxycontin be delisted in Alberta?- Serenity Ranch
Posted by
Deon Smit on Tue, Feb 28, 2012 @ 09:42 AM
EDMONTON - Alberta has no plans to limit funding for OxyContin or its reincarnation, OxyNeo, a move other provinces say they’re taking to curb addictions to the narcotic painkiller. – Edmonton Journal
What exactly is Oxycontin?
Oxycontin is commonly known as “Oxy” or “ Hillbilly Heroin”. It is a semi-synthetic opioid used for pain management. Since it is an opioid, it has addictive qualities similar to Morphine or Heroin. The difference here is that it is legal and prescribed.
Delisting and recent developments:
As per the local media, Oxycontin has been delisted in certain provinces in Canada and will no longer receive funding. Alberta however has decided not to do so. OxyNEO that has been altered slightly to make illicit use more difficult will replace Oxycontin. It has been given a hard coating that makes crushing it difficult and it would turn to gel when mixed with water. This in itself is a step in the right direction in the sense that pharmaceutical companies are taking action when their products are being illicitly used.
The Issue:
The big question still remains, is this enough? Will this reduce the illicit use of prescribed opioids? Or is this just a plaster fix?
Oxycontin misuse destroys the person and the family just like any other drug that is allowed to govern a person’s existence. The difficulty with a licensed drug is that most people who become addicted believe it is safe at first. My doctor prescribes it, so it must be ok right?
Who should take responsibility for the safety of Albertans in need of pain management? The doctors, pharmaceutical companies or the individual?
We would love to hear your thoughts on this, so please post your comments below.
Addicted to oxycontin, or know someone who is? 
