Addiction Expert Weighs In On Dramatic Increase in Women Dying from Opioid Overdoses

CHICAGO, Aug. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A recent Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study reported 6,631 women died of opioid overdoses in 2010, five times more than just a decade ago. The rate surpasses the increase seen in men over the same time period. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines opioids as powerful medications that can help manage pain when prescribed for the right condition and when used properly. But, when prescribed by physicians to patients who should not receive them, or when used improperly or for recreational purposes, they can cause serious harm, including overdose and death.

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"This escalation in female deaths is staggering," said Kim Dennis MD, CEO and medical director of Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center. "The statistics show the shocking ignorance with regards to mental health and addiction training, diagnosis and treatment among physicians most likely to prescribe these medications; these include ER doctors, primary care physicians, family practice doctors and even psychiatrists."

The overdose rate was highest among women ages 45 to 54, which is surprising since women in their 20s and 30s were more likely to abuse prescription opiates. Many of the women who died were being prescribed combinations of pain medication including Vicodin, Oxycontin, Methadone, and addictive anti-anxiety medications (called benzodiazepines – Xanax, Ativan and Valium), and antidepressants.

Dr. Dennis adds she doesn't see the trend changing any time soon until physicians who prescribe negligently are held accountable.

"Some health professionals don't take the needed time to know what the problem is and they don't conduct even a cursory substance abuse risk screening, and importantly, do not discuss the risks of abuse and dependence with their patients."

About Timberline Knolls:
Timberline Knolls is a leading private residential treatment center for women and adolescent girls (ages 12 – 65+) with eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, mood and co-occurring disorders.  Located in suburban Chicago, residents receive excellent clinical care from a highly trained professional staff on a picturesque 43-acre wooded campus.  Women and families seeking Christian treatment can opt for specialized Christian-based therapy.  For more information on Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center, call us at 877.257.9611. We are also on Facebook – Timberline Knolls, and LinkedIn – Timberline Knolls.

Contact: Mary Anne Morrow
Timberline Knolls
[email protected]
Tel: 602-359-6989

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
Kim Dennis, MD
http://www.profnetconnect.com/kimdennis

SOURCE Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center