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Why the increase in prescription drug abuse in Oklahoma?

Published: February 5, 2012

Why the increase in prescription drug abuse?

Chris Jones, health scientist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said sale of prescription drugs and nonmedical use is driving the number of overdose deaths.

photo - Left: Mack D. Scherler demonstrates the prescription monitoring program at the Medicine Cabinet in Oklahoma City. PHOTOS BY SARAH PHIPPS, THE OKLAHOMAN

Left: Mack D. Scherler demonstrates the prescription monitoring program at the Medicine Cabinet in Oklahoma City. PHOTOS BY SARAH PHIPPS, THE OKLAHOMAN

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Documents

Read the press release about an individual who the state's top drug agents have identified as Oklahoma's top "doctor shopper"
View the press release.

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According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, Oklahoma ranked in the top 25 percent of states with high drug overdose deaths. Jones said the state also had a higher amount than the national average of opioid drugs that were sold.