Portland and Jackson County are rarely lumped together when it comes to statistics.

But when it comes to prescription drug abuse, the state’s largest metropolitan area and Southern Oregon’s commercial hub are in lock-step.

Dwight Holton, an assistant U.S. attorney for the Justice Department in Oregon, discussed the disconcerting commonality during Monday’s Chamber Forum at the Rogue Valley Country Club. Holton was the interim U.S. attorney for Oregon until Sept. 26, when Amanda Marshall was confirmed by the U.S. Senate

“Prescription drug abuse is spiraling out of control,” Holton said, noting that more than 1,200 Oregonians have died in the past three years. That’s five times as many as have been murdered.

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BY SHEILA STOGSDILL Oklahoman

Authorities allege the baby’s mother used drugs both during pregnancy — involving premature birth — and afterward, and the baby died at 3 months of age.

SEMINOLE — The mother of an infant born prematurely, who died at 3 months old weighing less than she did at birth, has a history of giving birth to children while on drugs, according to a Department of Human Services report released Friday.

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By KATIE MOISSE

Published July 13, 2011

A Florida pain doctor could be charged in the death of many of his patients.

Dr. Joseph Hernandez was suspended July 6 by the Florida Department of Health for overprescribing opiate painkillers, addictive drugs that can be lethal in high doses.

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October 29, 2011
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

DEA has scheduled another National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 29, 2011, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. to provide a venue for persons who want to dispose of unwanted and unused prescription drugs.  Please click here to search for a convenient collection location near you.

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