First analysis of global drug dependence reveals opioids responsible for the greatest burden of death and illness
Date Published:
Thursday, 29 August 2013
**Embargo: 09:01 AM [AEST], Thursday 29 August, 2013**
**Embargo: 09:01 AM [AEST], Thursday 29 August, 2013**
The publication of a NIDIP bulletin on accidental opioid-induced deaths in 2008 caught the media's attention this week.
A report released by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre reveals that a total of 500 Australians aged 15-54 died due to accidental opioid overdoses in 2008 – the latest year for which final figures are available.
The Minister for Health, Michelle O'Byrne, today released a world-leading review aimed at ensuring safer prescribing and use of opioids in the treatment of chronic pain in Tasmania.