The Epidemic We Should All Know More About

The Key Players

People who consistently use opioids eventually move on to heroin as it provides a stronger buzz. Heroin is also cheaper and easier to get because opioids require a prescription. Opioids are available in several forms. They can be prescribed by themselves or in combination with other pain medications such as over-the-counter acetaminophen, caffeine, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pills. The two main types of opioids are hydrocodone and oxycodone. Each drug works in different ways to reduce pain.

Hydrocodone

The most commonly prescribed opioid in America is hydrocodone. It is also responsible for more drug abuse and diversion, which is the criminal act of acquiring prescription drugs without a doctor’s consent, than any other licit or illicit opioid on the market. An estimated 136.7 million prescriptions for a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen were given out in 2011 alone. The most popular form is Vicodin. Many states are fighting back against the approval of newer forms of hydrocodone to reduce the risk of dependency.