Investigation Reveals PBMs’ Financial Ties to Opioid Manufacturers Amid Crisis
A recent investigation reveals that major drug companies, including Purdue Pharma, engaged in secret financial arrangements with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that facilitated the rampant distribution of opioids, exacerbating the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States. This report highlights the conflict of interest faced by PBMs, who prioritized profits over patient safety, and calls for urgent regulatory reforms to ensure accountability and transparency in the pharmaceutical supply chain.
The Impact of Opioid Addiction on Children in the US
Recent studies have highlighted the alarming impact of opioid addiction on children in the United States, with over 321,000 children losing a parent to drug overdose between 2011 and 2021. Dr. James Babiuk, a dental professional, has developed TheWisdomToothDoc Technique to address the link between dental procedures and opioid addiction, advocating for opioid-free practices to protect patients, especially children, from the risks associated with opioid use.
US Supreme Court Blocks Legal Protections for Sackler Family in Purdue Pharma Bankruptcy Deal
The US Supreme Court has blocked a bankruptcy deal that would have protected the Sackler family, owners of Purdue Pharma, from future lawsuits related to the opioid crisis. The decision, which was seen as a victory for critics of the deal, raises uncertainties about the future of the agreement and sparks discussions about accountability and justice. Purdue Pharma, known for its production of OxyContin, filed for bankruptcy in 2019 after facing lawsuits. The ruling sets a precedent for future bankruptcy deals involving high-profile entities.
Seattle Man Develops Rare Brain Condition After Inhaling Fentanyl
A recent case in Seattle has highlighted the dangers of inhaling fentanyl, as a 47-year-old man was found collapsed in his hotel room after inhaling the drug, leading to a rare condition known as toxic leukoencephalopathy. This incident marks the first time this condition has been linked to illicit fentanyl, with previous cases typically associated with heroin inhalation. Learn more about the symptoms and risks associated with toxic leukoencephalopathy.
McKinsey & Co under Criminal Investigation for Alleged Role in Fueling Opioid Epidemic
McKinsey & Co is under criminal investigation in the U.S. for its alleged role in the opioid epidemic, focusing on its work with Purdue Pharma and other drug manufacturers. The investigation centers on suspicions of criminal conspiracy, healthcare fraud, and obstruction of justice. This probe could lead to criminal charges, civil sanctions, or closure without action, potentially impacting McKinsey and its executives with substantial financial penalties.
US Drug Overdoses Reach Record High in 2022
Drug overdoses in the United States have hit a new record high, with almost 108,000 Americans dying from overdoses in 2022. The final federal figures released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show a continuous rise in overdose deaths over the last two decades, making it the worst overdose epidemic in American history. The alarming trend calls for continued attention and efforts to address the underlying issues contributing to this epidemic.
Surge in Deaths Linked to Pregabalin in the UK
Deaths linked to pregabalin, a commonly prescribed anxiety drug, have more than doubled in the UK from 2018 to 2022. Recent press reports have compared this surge to a US-style opioid epidemic, causing undue panic. Pregabalin, also known as Lyrica and Alzain, is used to treat epilepsy, nerve pain, and anxiety, but can be dangerous when taken alongside certain other drugs.
Users share harrowing experiences with anti-anxiety drug Pregabalin
Users of the anti-anxiety drug Pregabalin have shared their devastating experiences with the medication, citing severe side effects and dependency issues. Reports of erratic behavior, blurred vision, mood swings, and suicidal thoughts have raised concerns about the safety and awareness of Pregabalin prescription and usage.
Understanding Chronic Back and Spine Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Recent Advances
Chronic pain, particularly pertaining to the back and spine, is a pervasive issue with far-reaching implications for individuals’ daily lives. This article delves into the causes of chronic back and spine pain, as well as explores various treatment options and recent advances in addressing this debilitating condition, including chiropractic care and the WaveWriter SCS Systems. Additionally, the significance of seemingly minor factors like the choice of mattress should not be underestimated in the holistic management of chronic back pain.
High-Concentration Capsaicin Patch Reduces Neuropathic Pain Intensity
A high-concentration capsaicin patch (HCCP) has been found to effectively reduce pain intensity for patients with neuropathic pain, according to a study published in Pain Practice. The study analyzed data from 97 patients and revealed a significant decrease in average daily morphine equivalent dose during HCCP treatment. The findings suggest potential benefits of repeated HCCP applications for various pain etiologies, offering promising implications for neuropathic pain management.