opioid epidemic – Page 32 – The Portland Press Herald

Fentanyl use drove drug overdose deaths to a record high in 2017

by Christopher Ingraham The Washington Post August 16, 2018August 16, 2018

The CDC estimates that nationwide the number of deaths has plateaued but in states like Maine, the number of deaths is rising.

Nation & World

Nebraska carries out nation’s first execution using fentanyl

by GRANT SCHULTE associated press August 14, 2018August 14, 2018

The drug has played a role in the nation’s opioid epidemic.

Maine Voices, Opinion

Maine Voices: Prosecution must remain weapon in the war against opioid trafficking

by Halsey B. Frank Special to the Press Herald August 9, 2018August 8, 2018

We have never prosecuted mere users and will not be doing so under a new federal initiative.

Health, Local & State, Politics

Expanded opioid treatment program lauded by Reps. Pingree and Joe Kennedy

by Joe Lawlor August 8, 2018August 9, 2018

The medication-assisted treatment offered in Biddeford by MaineHealth is one of eight locations in a program that will be move into Portland next year.

Business, Health, Local & State

Two Franklin County commissioners oppose joining lawsuit against opioid makers

by Rachel Ohm August 7, 2018August 8, 2018

The lawsuit alleges that the drugmakers bear some blame for the addiction crisis that has ravaged Maine and other states.

Local & State, News

New detox center with 22 beds to open this week in Portland

by David Harry The Forecaster August 6, 2018August 6, 2018

The Pine Tree Recovery Center will help men and women with substance use disorders and arrives in the midst of an opioid crisis with treatment facilities in short supply.