Opioid Crisis Unveiled: Lessons from History with Dr. Timothy Gooden
Chronic pain for an individual can be any one of a number of different things and it can have a number of different characteristics.
Ever wondered how the opioid crisis spiraled into the epidemic we face today? In this eye-opening episode of 'The Recovery Mile', Dr. Timothy Gooden takes listeners on a journey through the dark history of opioid addiction, starting from the early 1900s. With a mix of historical facts and professional insights, Dr. Gooden reveals how the discovery of morphine post-Civil War set off a chain reaction of addiction among veterans, leading to the Harrison Narcotic Act of 1914.
But did this act really solve the problem? Not quite. It merely pushed individuals towards illegal sources for opioids. Fast forward to the 1960s, and methadone was introduced as a treatment for heroin addiction. Yet, anti-opioid laws in the 1970s made it difficult for doctors to prescribe opioids, except for severe cases like post-operative or end-of-life pain. This episode also shines a spotlight on the pivotal role pharmaceutical companies played in the crisis. Dr.
Gooden discusses how Purdue Pharma's aggressive marketing of OxyContin in the mid-1990s as a 'safe' painkiller led to skyrocketing prescriptions and subsequent addiction. Dr. Gooden doesn't just leave us with the grim history; he also addresses the ongoing challenges of treating chronic pain and explores alternative pain management options. He emphasizes that chronic pain is complex and multifaceted, requiring a nuanced approach to treatment.
The episode wraps up with a hopeful message about the importance of support systems for those battling addiction and the collective steps we can take towards recovery. If you're looking to understand the roots of the opioid crisis and what can be done to combat it, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Gooden's blend of historical context and practical advice offers a comprehensive look at one of today's most pressing public health issues.