Given the recent headlines regarding the alleged accidental prescription drug overdoses of celebrities like Michael Jackson, Heath Ledger and Corey Haim, it's no wonder that many Modesto residents are doing more independent research before taking certain prescription medications. The worry of accidental overdose is a common concern among people taking prescriptions for various conditions. And for good reason: according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), unintentional poisoning is now the second leading cause of death in America.
The rates of prescription drug overdose have risen rapidly in the U.S. since 1990. By 2005, unintentional poisonings accounted for 23,618 deaths in this country, 95% of which were from drug overdoses. More than half of these were solely from prescription drugs.
While some overdoses are intentional, most statistics indicate that the majority of instances are accidental. And now, with more and more free samples being handed out without regulation, prescription drugs are easier than ever to obtain. The CDC estimates that in 2006 alone, there were 2.2 million new users of prescription painkillers in the United States. While these numbers continue to rise, so do the deaths related to overdoses.
Doctors often over-prescribe drugs to patients who in turn suffer from their use. If you or someone in your family has experienced adverse effects from prescription drugs, contact a personal injury lawyer immediately. A lawyer will scour the details of your medical history to develop a clear picture of your case. If medical malpractice or drug companies are to blame, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries or for the death of a loved one.
