Kentucky overdose deaths declined for the first time in a decade in 2012, according to a report by the Office of Drug Control Policy.
There were 1,004 overdose fatalities in 2012, as compared to 1,023 deaths in 2011 statewide; 888 of these deaths last year were found to be unintentional.
"Obviously, we're pleased to see that we've broken the trend of steadily increasing drug overdose numbers," said Van Ingram, executive director of the Office of Drug Control Policy. "As House Bill 1 has taken effect, opiates available through illicit means - doctor shopping and street sales - have become less available...."
Even with the overall drop, Kentucky may have another drug epidemic on its hands. Overdose deaths attributed to the use of heroin - a cheaper and more available alternative for drug users in Kentucky - increased 550 percent in 2012 with 143 cases, up from 22 in 2011. Read the full story here:
Overdose Deaths in Kentucky Decline For First Time In A Decade
Thousands of individuals die or suffer severe injury each year due to medication errors and medication overdoses. New safeguards have been employed to help this situation in Kentucky, and they appear to be working.
If you or anyone in your family has suffered serious side effects or damages from a medication error you should seek legal investigation immediately. Crandall & Pera Law is available to help answer your questions and guide you in determining your next steps.