Some people in recovery swear by the effectiveness of the drugs, but the FDA and many treatment experts say there is no credible evidence to support their use.
opioid epidemic
Posted inMaine, News
Maine falls behind other states in efforts to prevent overdose deaths
As states from New Hampshire to California expand access to the overdose antidote naloxone, the LePage administration delays action that could save Maine lives.
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Posted inMaine, News, Politics
Democratic leaders put pressure on pharmacy board over naloxone rules
House Speaker Sara Gideon and Senate Minority Leader Troy Jackson send a letter to the state’s regulatory board urging action on rules that would allow people to buy the opioid overdose antidote without a prescription.
Posted inNation & World
Chinese sellers find an easy way to ship opioids: the U.S. Postal Service
The postal system has yet to fully implement an electronic data system that would help authorities identify suspicious shipments.
Posted inHealth, Nation & World
Analysis: Canada takes novel approach with prescription opioid vending machines
The idea is to provide a safer emergency alternative to street drugs that may be cut with deadly doses of fentanyl.
Posted inHealth, Nation & World, News
Walmart touts way to turn unwanted opioids into disposable gel
The retailer offers packets filled with a powder that can turn pills into a useless substance to be tossed.
Posted inEditorials, Opinion
Our View: Maine should fight homelessness, addiction at the same time
A pilot project that would provide treatment and emergency housing is both compassionate and smart.
Posted inMaine Voices, Op-eds, Opinion
Maine Voices: LePage irresponsible to keep lifesaving drug naloxone from opioid users
The governor’s outdated and disproven opinions deprive people of the chance to survive an overdose, enter recovery and make something of their lives.
Posted inMaine, News
Why a life-saving drug still isn’t at hand: Bureaucracy
Twice Maine lawmakers have OK’d the purchase of Narcan, a heroin overdose antidote, without a prescription, but Gov. Paul LePage and the state’s pharmacy regulators won’t publish the rules that sanction its sale.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
Press Herald’s ‘Lost’ series recognized at U.S. Senate hearing
An award-winning author praises the newspaper’s reporting during an exchange with Sen. Susan Collins at a hearing on the nation’s opioid crisis.