Emergency Department Visits Involving Nonmedical Use of Selected Prescription Drugs in the United States, 2004–2008

EDITOR'S ABSTRACT

This report, adapted from the lead article in the June 10, 2010, issue of Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports, describes the alarming increase in overdose deaths involving prescription drugs. Oxycodone, hydrocodone, and methadone were the drugs most highly implicated. Data were derived from the federal Drug Abuse Warning Network (Dawn). Other drugs commonly used in managing pain patients, including benzodiazepines and muscle relaxants, also were implicated.

KEYWORDS. :

• benzodiazepines
• deaths
• emergency departments
• muscle relaxants opioids
• prescription drug