Study Examines Prescription Opioid Sources for High-Risk Users

Why it matters locally: West Virginia has faced one of the nation's highest opioid overdose death rates in recent years. This CDC research identifying how high-risk users obtain prescription opioids—including through legitimate medical channels—has direct relevance to state public health efforts and physician prescribing practices.

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Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzed the sources of prescription opioid pain relievers used for nonmedical purposes. The study, published in *JAMA Internal Medicine*, examined data collected between 2008 and 2011. The research letter, titled "Sources of Prescription Opioid Pain Relievers by Frequency of Past-Year Nonmedical Use: United States, 2008-2011," indicates that while many individuals who misuse prescription opioids obtain them without cost from friends or relatives, those at the greatest risk of an overdose were as likely to acquire them through a doctor's prescription. The study highlights the role of physicians in providing prescription opioids to individuals who engage in nonmedical use and face elevated overdose risks. Further details concerning the specific data points and methodology used in the study are available in the published research letter.