Strategy for tackling OxyContin addiction draws debate
To respond to OxyContin addiction issues, the province moved last year to implement new restrictions to keep the drug off the street.
But some opponents say the restrictions are bringing more violence.
The restrictions mean only people in intense pain, such as cancer patients, are covered to get the prescription pain killer.
Some recovery experts say the new restrictions are backfiring.
"It's shortsighted. They want to deal with the immediate problem, which is access to OxyContin, but you don't think of the fallout," said Robert Graham from Two Ten Recovery.
While it was hoped restrictions would move more addicts to seek help, Graham said wait times for treatment, which can be up to a year long, pose obstacles.
"The waiting period - what are they supposed to do during this time? The sickness is horrid," said Graham.
Some addicts say theft or violence becomes a real possibility without quick access to treatment and with restrictions on the drug.
During the past 10 months, about 14 pharmacy robberies have been reported.
Nicole Verhaeghe's pharmacy has been held up three times during the past year.
"It was quite terrifying – even thinking about it now is quite scary," said Verhaeghe.
The province, however, said the new system has been successful.
"When you're looking at a complex situation, you're not going to come up with a one-size-fits all quick answer. It's a long-term process. We're coming to a long-term solution that will make a difference," said Jim Rondeau, the province's minister of health living.
Some pharmacists also agree, welcoming limits on the drugs.
"Because those changes have occurred, there's been an increase in robberies, but it's for the betterment of society," said Nancy, a Winnipeg pharmacist.
- with a report from CTV's Jeremy Hunka
