In 1980, a letter in the New England Journal of Medicine downplayed opioid addiction risk, shaping subsequent prescribing practices. Opioid prescriptions surged in the 1980s, fueled by OxyContin approval in 1995 and endorsement for chronic pain in 1997. Aggressive marketing led to a tenfold increase in OxyContin prescriptions from 1997 to 2002. By 2006, the U.S. had 72 opioid prescriptions per 100 people. This contributed to an opioid epidemic, with over 62 million patients filling prescriptions by 2016. TAKE COURSE

In 2014, Heather Pereira's disturbing case in Kentucky unveiled "vet shopping," where she intentionally harmed her dog to obtain opioids. This exposed a concerning aspect of the opioid epidemic, prompting public education campaigns and highlighting the risks of misusing pet medications like Tramadol and Valium. Pereira's case emphasized the need for awareness, education, and thoughtful regulation in addressing the opioid crisis's impact on both humans and animals. TAKE COURSE

As the focus on opioid misuse sharpens, it is essential to recognize and address the unique dynamics within veterinary practices. Safeguarding against potential risks can contribute significantly to the broader efforts aimed at curbing the multifaceted challenges posed by the opioid epidemic. It underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes veterinary professionals in the collective endeavor to mitigate the impacts of opioid misuse on both human and animal well-being. TAKE COURSE