STAT

Opinion: Follow the evidence to treat opioid addiction

Not much was accomplished during the 90-day opioid public health emergency. Maybe we can do better during its renewal.
Source: Ted S. Warren/AP

On Friday, just days before President Trump’s declaration of the opioid epidemic as a national public health emergency was due to expire, the acting director of the Department of Health and Human Services renewed it for another 90. The declaration sparked little progress in its first 90 days, making it seem like just another symbolic gesture. That’s a shame because the fight against addiction demands real action. With lives hanging in the balance, we urge the Trump administration to use the renewal to take strong steps to stop a vexing problem that affects communities across the United States.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from STAT

STAT2 min read
STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re Reading About A Senate Probe Into Novo Pricing, A New UTI Antibiotic, And More
The U.S. Senate health committee is investigating the prices Novo Nordisk charges for its blockbuster medications Ozempic and Wegovy.
STAT2 min read
STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re Reading About Wegovy And Ozempic Sales, Rising Pharma Layoffs, And More
Sales of the blockbuster Wegovy obesity treatment more than doubled in the first quarter as Novo Nordisk races to make more of the drug to meet surging demand.
STAT2 min readAmerican Government
STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re Reading About FTC Reviewing Novo-Catalent Deal, Amneal Opioid Settlement, And More
The FTC wants more information on a $16.5 million deal in which Novo Nordisk's parent company would purchase Catalent, a contract drug manufacturer.

Related Books & Audiobooks