OxyContin Relief
By Bob McDonnellFor several years, our Office jointly led a multi-state civil investigation regarding the marketing of the prescription pain-killer OxyContin.
Along with 25 other states and the District of Columbia, we reached a settlement with the company addressing claims that they violated consumer protection laws through misleading marketing of OxyContin and failing to adequately disclose abuse risks.
The company paid $19.5 million to the states and agreed to adhere to numerous restrictions regarding the marketing of OxyContin.
Virginia received more than $650,000 to combat prescription drug abuse and addiction, including education, outreach, prevention and monitoring programs.
On January 30, I had the pleasure of personally delivering these funds to worthy programs in Southwest Virginia.
The Appalachian Substance Abuse Coalition for Prevention and Treatment was awarded $200,000 to implement a prevention campaign to increase awareness of the use and abuse of prescription drugs.
The Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services was awarded $306,413 to provide treatment to persons who are dependent on opiate-based prescription drugs.
The Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy was awarded $150,000 for the treatment and rehabilitation of miners who have prescription drug abuse or addiction problems. The mining community was particularly hard hit by OxyContin abuse and addiction.
The funds from this important consumer protection settlement will educate Virginia consumers about the dangers of OxyContin and prescription drug abuse and addiction. They also will help those who have suffered from addiction and dependency issues.
Consumer protection is an important statutory duty of the Office of the Attorney General, and our staff can help. In an age of increased consumer issues, we all must continue to be educated and vigilant.
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