Study: Rx abusers receive pills from friends, relatives

April 25, 2012 (CHICAGO)

A new study out today shows that more than 70% of people who first misuse prescription medications get those pills from their friends or relatives.

The analysis from the US Office of National Drug Control Policy also showed prescription painkiller abuse led to more than 15,000 deaths in 2009, which is more than cocaine and heroin combined.

That tally also exceeded the number of deaths from motor vehicle accidents for the first time ever.
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