Opioid Epidemic

As of 2014, pain relievers are the 2nd most commonly abused drugs in the United States with 4.3 million Americans using them for nonmedical reasons.[1] The number of those using pain relievers for nonmedical reasons has remained relatively unchanged from 2002 to 2014, however the number of deaths from prescription drugs, namely opioids, is up 3-fold since 2001.[2] At a time where opioids appear to be causing more problems than they solve, the medical profession is in desperate need of something new. Enter ziconotide. This unique medication is created from a toxin naturally made by the Cone snail (a ω-conotoxin peptide).[3] The molecule is a calcium channel blocker that works by infused into the cerebrospinal fluid to inhibit the release of glutamate, CGRP and substance P in the brain and spinal cord to provide pain relief [4],[5]; the best part…

The opioid epidemic is just that...an epidemic - it's widespread and affects everyone.  Here are some interesting statistics.  The United States comprises only 4.6% of the world's population but we consume 80% of the world's opioids.  The United States consumes 99% of the world's Vicodin.  We spend $300,000,000,000 (that's billion) on pain-related medical costs each year, much of that is on medications.  According to the CDC, in 2013, nearly 2 million Americans abused prescription drugs. [1]  Each day, 7000 people are treated in Emergency Rooms across the United States for overdose or complications related to prescription drugs. Abuse Deterrent Formulations (ADF) are a good attempt to help curb the epidemic, but since insurance companies charge patients an arm and a leg for them over generics, addicts have a valid reason to ask for something that's cheaper and abusable.  More importantly, these ADFs are only one…