How Big Pharma Hooked America On Legal Heroin 499
pigrabbitbear writes "The active ingredient in OxyContin, oxycodone, isn't a new compound. It was originally synthesized in Germany in 1916. The patent on the medication had expired well before Purdue Pharma, a Stamford, Connecticut-based pharmaceutical company and the industry leader in pain medication, released it under the brand name in 1996. The genius of Purdue's continued foray into pain-management medication – they had already produced versions of hydromorphone, oxycodone, fentanyl, codeine, and hydrocodone – was twofold. They not only created a drug from an already readily available compound, but they were able to essentially re-patent the active ingredient by introducing a time-release element. Prior to the 1990s, strong opioid medications were not routinely given for miscellaneous or chronic, moderately painful conditions; the strongest classes of drugs were often reserved for the dying. But Purdue parlayed their time-release system not only into the patent for OxyContin. They also went on a PR blitz, claiming their drug was unique because of the time-release element and implied that it was so difficult to abuse that the risk of addiction was 'under 1%.'"
Well you know... (Score:5, Funny)
That just proves that Rush Limbaugh is part of the 1%.
Re:Well you know... (Score:1, Funny)
That just proves that Rush Limbaugh is part of the 1%.
Whatever drug Rush Limbaugh is on is way stronger than OxyContin.
Re:Dont forget the low cost (Score:2, Funny)
Kind of makes all the rest of us feel like worthless garbage, doesn't it.
You must be on OxyContin.
Re:Dont forget the low cost (Score:2, Funny)
Yeah, personally I'm kind of glad Rush Limbaugh hasn't OD'd yet. Everything about him makes me feel like I'm an amazing, intelligent, thoughtful, caring human being. Well... at least by comparison. Otherwise I'm not so impressive.
Re:Well you know... (Score:5, Funny)
I think the last time I actually listened to Rush was in 1997, so I really can't remember...
Oh, you're missing out. While Test for Echo was pretty good, that's no way to leave yourself hanging. Rush is still touring, and in fact they released Clockwork Angels in June this year.
Re:Well you know... (Score:5, Funny)
Yes your facts follow that Cannabis overdose is the main reason for ER visits.... lol....
The legal effects are far more dangerous to the individual than the substance.
Withdrawal from sugar is far more pysically rough, so whats your point?
Anyway oxycontin kills daily....
Here is a fact for you..
How much cannabis does it take to kill a lab rat? 2.5 pounds if you drop it from about 3 feet.
Re:I had Oxy after my Donor surgery (Score:2, Funny)
Don't be ridiculous. You take them with you on camping trips because being high as a kite on painkillers is the only way camping is remotely enjoyable.