In recent years, the media has inundated us with coverage of the increasing abuse of prescription painkillers. Prescription Painkillers, the third book in Hazelden's Library of Addictive Drugs series, offers current, comprehensive information on the history, social impact, pharmacology, and addiction treatment for such commonly abused, highly addictive opiate prescription painkillers as Oxycontin, Vicodin, Percocet, and Darvocet. Here, Dr. Marvin Seppala, chief medical officer at Hazelden Foundation, provides context for understanding the current drug abuse problem by tracing their history and the varying patterns of use over time. He then offers an in-depth study of such controversial issues surrounding these readily available drugs as over-prescription by physicians and adolescent abuse. Included is a straightforward look at the leading treatment protocols based on current research.Thoroughly researched and highly readable, Prescription Painkillers offers a comprehensive understanding of the history, pharmacology, and treatment of these highly impactful drugs. Written for professionals and serious lay readers by nationally recognized experts, the books in the Library of Addictive Drugs series feature in-depth, comprehensive, and up-to-date informaiton on the most commonly abused mood-altering substances.

Marvin D. Seppala, M.D., chief medical officer at Hazelden, is the author of Clinician's Guide to the Twelve Step Principles and coauthor of When Painkillers Become Dangerous and Pain-Free Living for Drug-Free People. He is a board member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Written for professionals and serious lay readers by nationally recognized experts, the books in the Library of Addictive Drugs series feature in-depth, comprehensive, and up-to-date information on the most commonly abused mood-altering substances. Other titles include Methamphetamine, Heroin, and Alcohol.