State Representative Jack Jordan released information on the Opioid epidemic in Indiana.
He said, “According to a national report from the American Medical Association Opioid Task Force, opioid prescriptions in Indiana decreased by 35% over the past five years.”
Prescribed opioids can be effective but are addictive. Those who abuse prescription opioids are at risk of turning to heroin and other illegal drugs.
By requiring doctors and pharmacists to check Indiana’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program database before prescribing or dispensing an opioid, we have curbed drug users’ ability to illegally obtain multiple prescriptions. To help stop addiction before it starts, steps have been taken to limit the amount of opioids that can be prescribed to individuals. These efforts, combined with stronger punishments for drug dealers and providing more treatment options for Hoosiers, are helping the state tackle this epidemic.
Jordan said, “Still, too many are facing addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling, please connect with Indiana 2-1-1 for help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
